Benefits A-Z
developed by HR communications

Life Events - Research and Travel

Introduction

This is an overview of the kinds of information faculty, staff, and graduate students need to know before they can travel for research, on sabbatical, or on other University-related business. "University travel" for the faculty or staff member is defined as travel that is authorized by the University. For students, "travel" is defined as academic study, an approved employment program, or off-site field placement.

The Benefits Office encourages you to read this information before you travel on University business in order to make your trip as smooth as possible.

To be fully prepared while you are away, it will be helpful for you to download the Off-Campus Travel Handbook (PDF) and read the following sections: "Emergencies"; "Supplemental Travel Insurance"; and "Additional Resources". If you are traveling abroad, make sure to read "Traveling Outside of the U.S."

The Benefits Office encourages the following individuals to contact the Benefits Office about coverage before departure:

  • fellowship holders with GradCare coverage,
  • all benefit-eligible graduate students (GSIs, GSAs, and GSSAs),
  • emeritus and retired faculty.

Note for out-of-country travelers: Most medical insurance plans do not cover emergency medical evacuations or return of a deceased person. If you are traveling outside the U.S., you may want to purchase additional insurance for these emergencies.

Please consult the U-M International Travel Information Web Site http://www.umich.edu/~itoc for information concerning overseas travel. This site is maintained by the University's International Travel Oversight Committee. The University of Michigan requires all faculty, staff, and students who are planning University-related international travel (outside the United States) to provide emergency contact information. Such travel may be conducted for study, research, participation in sponsored projects or programs, business, or other purposes. To register this contact information, please go to the on-line Web site https://websvcs.itcs.umich.edu/itoc-bin/main.

Next: Your Itinerary

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the benefits information in this site. However, if any provision on the benefits plans is unclear or ambiguous, the Benefits Office reserves the right to interpret the plan and resolve the problem. If any inconsistency exists between this site and the written plans or contracts, the actual provisions of each benefit plan will govern. The University of Michigan in its sole discretion may modify, amend, or terminate the benefits provided with respect to any individual receiving benefits, including active employees, retirees, and their dependents.