Travel

Study Abroad

Due to the continuing restrictions from COVID-19 and its worldwide impact, all Mason’s study abroad programs for Summer 2021 have been cancelled except for those based at the Mason Korea campus and nearby partner universities in Korea. Mason is continuing planning for a full range of summer offerings, however, including internships, faculty-led programs and summer study with partner institutions around the world. 

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University Limits Travel Through Summer 2021

Mason is maintaining its prohibition on all university international travel until further notice.

Mason Korea campus in Songdo, South Korea
Mason has suspended all international travel through the end of summer, with the exception of travel to South Korea, where Mason has a campus in Songdo.

International Travel

Mason has suspended all international travel through the end of summer semester, with the exception of travel to South Korea, where Mason has a campus. 

Mason is following University Policy 1134, University-Sponsored or University-Related International Travel Policy. These precautions remain in effect regardless of the funding source.

If a department head approves travel, an exception can be requested, by submitting an Application for Travel to Hazardous Areas (PDF) to the University Travel Advisory Committee (UTAC)  for review and approval. Applications should be submitted 30 days in advance of the proposed travel date or as soon as travel is anticipated (at a minimum 3 business days before start of travel).  

UTAC will evaluate the application based on the following:

  • No restrictions on entry/exit to destination. 
  • The current country specific health and safety information related infection rate. 
  • The potential risk to personal health and safety of traveler and Mason community (possible quarantine upon return).
  • Availability of common carrier and lodging. 
  • Mason’s ability to assist in a return to the United States in emergency circumstances. 
  • The potential benefit of travel with regard to the Mason’s mission.  
  • The necessity of the travel to achieve the anticipated benefit.  

Domestic Travel

Effective May 1, 2021, UTAC approval will no longer be required for university domestic travel. Requests to travel domestically shall revert back to the pre-Covid process wherein travel approval is given at the department level, in accordance with University Policy 2101, Travel, Meals and Entertainment Expenditures.

Mason will continue monitoring the COVID-19 situation throughout the United States and will reinstate the requirement for UTAC approval for university domestic travel if needed.

While You're Traveling

  • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth. Masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
  • Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet from anyone who is not traveling with you.
  • Wash your hands often. If a sink is not available, use hand sanitizer.

    Returning from Travel

    All air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens, are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board a flight to the United States. For more information, visit CDC website.

    Currently, Mason does not mandate testing or quarantining after travel. However, if you have symptoms or have been in contact with someone who has COVID or tested positive for COVID remain off campus and see a health care provider for guidance.

    For more guidance on traveling, visit the CDC website.

    Non-Mason Travel

    Check state and territorial health department websites for the latest information and any quarantine requirements and review the resources provided by the Center for Disease Control regarding travel.

    For More Information

    If you have questions about Mason's travel policies related to COVID, contact the Office of Risk Management.