Study Abroad in Egypt Suspended for Fall

University will assist affected GW students in finding alternative options.

July 12, 2013

Egypt

The university is canceling study abroad plans for Egypt for the fall semester because of concerns about safety. Eight George Washington students were planning to study in the country.

The decision was made by the Office of International Programs in consultation with the Office for Study Abroad and leadership in the relevant graduate programs. Faculty and staff experts on study abroad safety and the region also informed the determination.

“We reached the conclusion that fall study in Egypt would not provide an environment in which students can meet their academic goals,” said Donna Scarboro, associate provost for international programs.

"Our foremost concern is to preserve the safety and security of GW students, faculty and staff, wherever they are carrying out their work,” said Dr. Scarboro. “We don't want students to be anxious about safety as they go about their normal activities, nor do we want their studies to be disrupted.”

Students who had planned to study in Egypt this fall will receive full support from the university in finding appropriate options and in managing the process of securing placement in alternative programs, said Dr. Scarboro. The students also have the option of studying at GW in the fall.