Studying Abroad As An LGBTQ+ Individual

• Develop intercultural communication skills
• Brings unique perspectives into countries and cultures
• Provides opportunities to learn how to adapt and advocate globally and bring back skills applicable to the United States
• Learn from LGBTQ+ people in other regions where gender and sexuality have different cultural expressions and histories
• Connect with LGBTQ+ people and allies worldwide!

"Studying abroad can open up the world din many ways that students may never have thought possible. Students have the opportunity to learn about other cultures and other people, but they often find that they learn a lot about themselves as well. The Office of Global Education strives to provide holistic and thoughtful programs to help all students reach their full potential and embark on a lifelong journey of exploration." - Education Abroad Staff

• Research and connect with LGBTQ+ organizations in your community abroad. Examples: Community Centers, Special Interest Groups, Athletic Associations, etc.
• Download apps to help you meet and find friends, but remember to be safe! Examples: Bumble BFF, Facebook groups, Friender, etc.
• Network with those participating in your program or are a par of the community or allies.
• Look for LGBTQ+ friendly student organizations or services at your host institution.
• Don't forget to stay connected with your peers at home!

Kent State offers programs in the following countries:

• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Bolivia
• Botswana
• Brazil
• Bulgaria
• Canada
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Cuba
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• Egypt
• England
• Estonia
• Fiji
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Ghana
• Greece
• Hong Kong
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Indonesia
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Japan
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Malaysia
• Malta
• Mexico
• Morocco
• New Zealand
• Northern Ireland
• Poland
• Portugal
• Scotland
• Singapore
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• Uruguay
• Vietnam

LGBTQ+ students could face challenges studying abroad such as:

• Feeling prepared to study abroad
• Discrimination
• Safety
• Forming community while abroad

Countries of Potential Concern:

• Egypt - outlaws same-sex relations
• Saudi Arabia - outlaws same-sex relations, criminalizes forms of gender expression
• Morocco - outlaws same-sex relations
• Kenya - outlaws same-sex relations
• Ghana - outlaws same-sex relations
• Malaysia - outlaws same-sex relations, criminalizes forms of gender expression
• United Arab Emirates - outlaws same-sex relations, criminalizes forms of gender expression

• How "out" do I want to be during my program?
• Is it important for me to participate in LGBTQIA+ activities and events while abroad?
• Are there resources for LGBTQ+ students in my host country or at my place of study?
• Are sexual orientation and gender identity openly discussed and accepted, or more taboo in my host country?
• Are there safety and legal issues for LGBTQ+ individuals in this area?
• The culture of your host country may make you feel either more comfortable to come out, or reversely, like you are "sent back into the closet." Do you have a support system prepared to help you in these circumstances?

US Department of State LGBTI Travel Information

An official overview of considerations for LGBTI travelers by the U.S.

Advocates for Transgender Equality Passport Info

Information about updating your passport to match your gender identity.

The Rights of Transgender Passengers During TSA Screening

Outlines the TSA screening process. Explains what can be expected during TSA screening for transgender passengers.

• International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association
• GlobalGayz
• Diversity Abroad
• EQUALDEX
• International Student Exchange Program (ISEP)