What will happen if Kent State decides to close the Florence program and send students home?

  • If the U.S. Embassy imposes a mandatory evacuation of all Americans abroad, Kent State will coordinate with the U.S. Embassy and the GeoBlue insurance company to arrange for evacuation.
  • If Kent State chooses to close the program and evacuate students, Kent State will make arrangements with the travel agent to schedule departing flights. For students who opted-out of group travel, Kent State will arrange for one-way tickets back to the U.S. All students will be required to complete a Departure Request Form within 24 hours of notification in order for Kent State to make flight arrangements. The students should indicate travel details, such as return airport, name, birthdate, passport number, etc. Any students who do not complete the form will be automatically routed to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
  • If students must depart from an airport outside of Florence, Kent State Florence staff will arrange for transportation to the departure airport.
  • Kent State Florence will coordinate with the local housing provider to arrange for all checkouts of apartments. Kent State Florence will disseminate checkout information to students.
  • Any students refusing to depart will be dismissed from the program, will lose visa sponsorship and health insurance, and will not be able to remain in their Florence apartment or have access to Palazzo Vettori, the Florence campus.
  • Students will need to follow any medical screenings mandated at all points of exit and entry as they travel and should be prepared for travel delays and potential quarantines.
  • All Kent State Florence courses have been retooled to be taught online, and students will be able to complete their semester in the online environment. For students who return to the U.S., they may still complete their courses online, or they may be placed in courses available at their home campus.
  • Students will be able to secure on-campus housing for an additional prorated fee.
  • The Office of Global Education will coordinate with the Office of Student Financial Aid to determine any major impacts to student aid packages and will disseminate information accordingly.
  • Information about refunds will be forthcoming if this option is enacted.