International Research

GW is committed to expanding research and scholarly activities through international activity. Sponsored research is considered international when a project includes one or more of the following criteria:

• an international sponsor
• travel to an international location to conduct research
• an international sub-recipient
• activity at an international location
• a contract with a consultant or employee at an international location for work that may or may not take place outside the U.S.
• the hire of an employee from an international location

With international research, it is important to plan ahead and to know best practices, relevant policies and laws and/or other complexities that may need to be considered. Some considerations, along with available resources and relevant policies, are outlined below.

Resource

• International Research Toolkit: The Office of Sponsored Projects has prepared an international research toolkit that includes key considerations related to international research. Covered topics include:
  • Preparing for International Research: Proposals and Budgets
  • Agreements with international sponsors and sub-recipients
  • Data Sharing
  • Engaging Foreign Personnel
  • Export Controls
  • Legal
  • Payments and Fees
  • Purchasing
  • Taxes
  • Travel
• Export Controls: Learn more about when your project and/or travel may be subject to Export Control laws and the procedures designed to promote university compliance.
• International Business & Operations Policies: GW offers information to help travelers navigate the university’s regulations and U.S. laws that govern international business and research.
• International Hires and Placements: Outlines the process for engaging individuals outside of the U.S.
• International Services Office: This office provides expertise related to visas and services for international students coming to GW.
• Foreign Currency Award Guidance: Provided by Grants & Contracts Accounting Services, this guidance is on how to manage a sponsored agreement using the sponsor's local currency aside from the U.S. dollar.

Resources for International Travel

• Travel Services: Book travel to international locations by utilizing GW’s online travel agency.
• GW International Travel: Register for international health insurance coverage, print an emergency contact card and register your international travel.
• International Travel Insurance Assistance: Learn more about HTH Worldwide, the insurance provider for GW faculty, staff and students traveling abroad.
• Fly America Act: Research travel to foreign countries supported with federal grants and contracts is subject to this law.

Other Available Resources

• State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program: A free service to enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate
• State Department Travel Warnings: Travel warnings and alerts issued by the U.S. State Dept.
• HTH Worldwide Risk Ratings: To access destination-specific risk ratings
• CDC Travel: Find Travel Health Notices and recommended vaccinations for travel to various international locations

GW Policies

• International Travel Policy
• Travel, Entertainment and Business Expense Reimbursement Policy
• Export Control Policy
• Compliance with Laws when Conducting University Activities Overseas
• International Travel Insurance Policy