Coronavirus Update: ISEP Suspends Programs in China and South Korean Universities Delay Start of Classes

Update: February 14, 2020

Following the recommendations of the South Korean Ministries of Education and Foreign Affairs, institutions in South Korea have delayed their start dates to ensure the health and well-being of incoming students and residents of South Korea. Here’s what you need to know:

1. All institutions in South Korea have delayed their program by an average of two weeks.
2. Large gatherings such as orientations have been moved online.
3. Students have been given information about what they need to do regarding housing before their program, and final exams at the end of their program if they cannot change their travel plans.
4. Steps have been taken to ensure students are not significantly financially impacted by the change in program dates.
5. Students who have recently traveled to, or are connecting through China will need to take special steps before enrolling in their host institution. These students should contact their Student Services Coordinator Joey Haavik and their host ISEP Coordinator as soon as possible to ensure they are taking the appropriate steps.
6. As a reminder, all ISEP students are covered by ISEP insurance and it is of the utmost importance that students understand how to access their insurance while on program. Students should know that they can review their ISEP insurance benefits and card on their ISEP Dashboard.

Any students or Coordinators who have any questions about the instructions they have been sent should contact Student Services Coordinator Joey Haavik and their host ISEP Coordinator as soon as possible so that they have all the information they need to start their program.

January 31, 2020

As a result of the coronavirus outbreak, which began in Wuhan, China and has affected many cities within the country, ISEP has suspended all programs in China for spring 2020. This includes all programs at Shanghai University and Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics (JUFE) in Nanchang. In addition, ISEP’s partner, The Intern Group, has temporarily suspended their full-time internship program in Shanghai.

The safety of our students is our primary concern, and we are continuing to track the coronavirus situation closely and monitor additional information we receive from our other sources, including but not limited to the host country’s government, the Overseas Security Advisory Council, the World Health Organization, and the Center for Disease Control.

Currently, all ISEP spring 2020 programs in all other countries are continuing as planned. We will continue to monitor and evaluate global travel advisories through the United Nations Global Travel Advisory website and provide further updates should travel advisory levels in other countries be heightened.

For more information, please visit our ISEP Health & Safety Policy page

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any additional questions or concerns.