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.

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

Download the International Research Toolkit (PDF)

Relevant Resources

Resources at GW

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: 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

Download the Sponsored Projects Handbook (PDF, GW Login Required)