Education Research Natural History Research Stations Reservations About OTS Covid-19 Give Today FAQs for OTS Study Abroad Health and Safety Information for Study Abroad During Covid-19 The Organization for Tropical Studies constantly monitors guidance from multiple global organizations (WHO, CDC, United Nations Security Council, etc.) and local expert institutions (NICD and Department of Health in South Africa, Ministry of Health in Costa Rica) to help us make informed decisions about the safety and feasibility of upcoming study abroad and field-based training offerings. Study abroad frequently asked questions (FAQs) Are there any changes to Spring 2022 OTS field programs as a result of the newly discovered Covid variant (Omicron)? OTS is aware of and is monitoring the new coronavirus variant of concern, first identified in South Africa and recently designated Omicron. Since this is a newly identified variant, more research is needed to best identify policies and procedures moving forward. At this time, we are still planning on running the undergraduate semester program, African Ecology & Conservation, early in 2022. As always, we will continue to engage with and follow the recommendations of public health professionals and organizations, both on the ground in South Africa and in the United States. Please contact us if you have additional questions or concerns. Can I apply for OTS study abroad programs during Covid-19 Pandemic? Yes! OTS is accepting applications for selected study abroad programs and field research opportunities in South Africa and Costa Rica. Our education and research teams are working diligently with our local and international partner institutions to ensure that these programs meet the appropriate health and safety of standards for education and training activities during the Covid-19 pandemic. How will OTS make the decision about the viability of programming during Covid-19? Have any programmatic changes been made to upcoming programs? What are the financial implications if the OTS field program I am applying for is cancelled due to Covid-19? What are the financial implications if I withdraw from the OTS program I have registered for and the program has not been cancelled? What happens if the program is cancelled by OTS less than 30 days prior to the start date? What happens if I choose to withdraw or my home institution requires it less than 30 days before the program’s start date? What will happen to my scholarships if I do not participate in the OTS program I have registered for? Should I purchase medical travel insurance for Covid-19? When should I book my flights? Will I need to have a Covid-19 test before coming on the program? Will there be a quarantine period on arrival in the destination country? How often will program participants be tested for Covid-19? What happens if a participant is tested positive with Covid-19 during the program? What are the OTS in-country protocols to reduce Covid-19 risks? What happens if there is a new wave of the virus while I am abroad? Will I be sent home? Should I bring my own PPE? What if I have already received a Covid-19 vaccination? Will there be information sessions, study abroad fairs, or seminars where I can get more information? Where can I get more information about the OTS Covid-19 response plans? RESOURCES Information Resources Quick Access Research Database Through My Lens Citizen Science All Access Trail GET INVOLVED Give to the Tropics Field Notes (Education Blog) Stay in contact with us Careers INFORMATION Whistleblower Policy FAQs Privacy Policy Statement of Solidarity ADD YOUR VOICE TO THE EFFORT BY DONATING TODAY DONATE © The Organization for Tropical Studies. All Rights Reserved. Photo Credits