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AIDE General Social Identity Resources

Two young women at Gay Pride Parade.

LGBTQIA+ Abroad

At AIFS Abroad, we want to support all participants in their study/internship abroad journey, inclusive of gender, race, religion, age, physical ability, or sexual orientation. Everyone has a complex identity, and faith, spirituality, and religion are important factors when deciding on a program location.  

Everyone’s experience is unique. We recognize the location you choose can have an impact on your sense of belonging. We encourage you to use the information below as you review your options to select the program and location that will be the best choice for you. If you do not hold the identities that are amplified here, this information is still a great resource for you as well. It will give you a better understanding of those who have this identity. 

If you would like to speak with AIFS alumni who share your social identities or one of our AIDE Advocates, you can use the student portal or email us at alumni@aifs.com and let us know. We would be happy to connect you. 

Questions to Think About: 

Tips to Consider While Abroad: 

If you witness or experience discrimination while abroad, we encourage you to report it to AIFS Abroad staff. If you do not feel comfortable reporting to staff on-site – or if the incident involves on-site staff – please email reporting@aifs.com

Questions and tips include selections from the University of Alabama Capstone International and Michigan State University Office for Education Abroad websites. 

  • GoAbroad.com LGBT Student Guide: Resouces and scholarship information for LGBTQ students as well as recommended study abroad destinations. 
  • Gay Games: Valencia will host the Gay Games in 2026, a great sporting event for diversity, inclusion and tolerance.
  • Mypronouns.org: MyPronouns.org is a practical resource dedicated to the empowering and inclusive use of personal pronouns 
  • National Center for Transgender Equality: Information on navigating airport security and the passport application process for transgender individuals. 
  • Amnesty International: Amnesty International is a global movement of millions of people demanding human rights for all people – no matter who they are or where they are. They are the world’s largest grassroots human rights organization. 
  • Identities Abroad: Hosted by the Colleges of the Fenway, the site features videos, resources and frequently asked questions for LGBTQ+ students planning to go abroad. 
  • International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA): ILGA’s aim is to work for the equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people and their liberation from all forms of discrimination. 
  • US Passport &Travel Office Info on Gender Designation Change: Detailed information and frequently asked questions for those undergoing a gender designation change. 
  • GLAAD: Tips that can be used as you move toward becoming a better ally to transgender people. 
  • Human Rights Campaign: A welcoming guide for supporters to build bridges of understanding when someone they know comes out to them as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer. The guide answers initial questions and shares facts, strategies, and ways to show your support as an ally in the fight for LGBTQ equality. 
  • Tips for Studying Abroad as a Student from the LGBTQIA+ Community: Blog post written by Angela Manginelli 
  • 9 Major Life Lessons I Learned Studying Abroad as an LGBT Student: Blog written by Robin Goralka on going abroad as a member of the LGBTQ+ community 
  • Transgender Law Center: Resources for trans students on changing federal identity documents to match your gender identity. 
  • LGBTQIA Study Abroad Interactive Map: This interactive map, designed by the UC Davis, profiles each country through the laws impacting their LGBTQIA communities, local organizations providing LGBTQIA advocacy or support, and multimedia resources about LGBTQIA identities in the region. 
  • TSA Transgender Passenger Information: Information before departure and while at the airport for transgender travelers. 
  • Equaldex: Collaborative LGBT knowledge base with information on countries around the world. 
  • Study.com College Scholarships for LGBTQ Students: Resources on funding for LGBTQIA+ students 
  • LGBTI Travelers: US Department of State website for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) travelers 
  • Trevor Project: The Trevor Project created a supportive online community of young people across 100 countries over six continents in addition to doing advocacy work, crisis services, research and public education. 
  • Love Has No Labels: An organization that promotes acceptance and inclusion for all across race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, and ability.   

AIFS Abroad Scholarships and Grants  

AIFS Abroad offers scholarships and grants for participants. Learn more:

Scholarships & Grants