Except as specifically outlined below, University departments do not have the authority to purchase any insurance, including travel insurance.

Travel insurance options in support of University pre-approved business travel are available through the Globetrotter Access America Travel Insurance and Assistance program (GAA).

GAA Travel Insurance is an option provided to protect the University against financial and other covered losses related to official travel. The department approving authority should evaluate potential institutional risks (financial, staff time, travel hazards, etc.) on a case-by-case basis when considering the purchase of GAA Travel Insurance.

GAA Travel Insurance is offered on a per-trip or annual basis. Globetrotter can provide assistance in evaluating the best value for frequent travelers, groups, and special needs.

Departments should determine whether appropriate funds are available before approving the purchase of GAA Travel Insurance. (Check with ORAA before using sponsored funds to purchase travel insurance.)

The purchase of GAA Travel Insurance is made on a per-traveler basis and must be approved on the Travel Approval Request (TAR) in advance of the purchase. The traveler must cooperate with the department if it is necessary to make a claim against University-funded insurance. (NOTE: Travel insurance is issued on a per-person basis and requires disclosure of the traveler's birth date.)

University departments and units that offer classes and other experiences that require travel (within and outside of Maryland) should assure and document that all participants are provided the option of purchasing travel insurance coverage. Departments that arrange credit and non-credit travel experiences for students must inform students of their responsibility to comply with University Study Abroad insurance requirements. Students attending University Study Abroad programs must have health insurance, including insurance with Medical Evacuation and Repatriation coverage. Travel insurance options should be offered at the time students register for the class/activity. GAA Travel Insurance may also be purchased by students who are traveling independently for non-University-related reasons.

Pre-approved GAA Travel Insurance may be purchased online.

GAA Travel Insurance for faculty and staff should be charged to the department's or traveler's University Travel Card. Students should purchase GAA Travel Insurance using a personal credit card.

GAA Travel Insurance is also available for personally funded trips.

GAA Travel Insurance is available whether or not the tickets and trip arrangements are made through Globetrotter. It is the University department's responsibility to accurately convey the details of the trip itinerary, costs, potential financial penalties, and traveler information needed to provide GAA insurance for the traveler.

Contact Travel Services for information about University programs that may provide travel insurance benefits.