R E S O U R C E S
Frequently Asked Questions
F A Q S
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Shadowing
Preparing to Travel
Cost
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What is the shadowing experience like?
Participants should be prepared for clinical experiences that range from strictly observational to limited hands-on exposure, depending on the clinic and local regulations. Students rotate through multiple clinics during the program to gain exposure to different practice settings and specialties.
How many observation hours will I complete during the program?
Summer programs include 60 observation hours over 3 weeks, and winter programs include 40 observation hours over 2 weeks.
Will my observation hours count toward PT school applications (PTCAS)?
Yes. All observation hours are verified by licensed physical therapists and can be applied toward PT school applications through PTCAS.
How many clinics will I rotate through?
Students typically rotate through 2–3 different clinics during the program.
What types of clinics will I observe in?
Clinic experiences may include outpatient orthopedic, sports, neurological, pediatric, geriatric, and general physical therapy settings, depending on location and availability.
What is a typical clinic day like?
Clinic schedules vary by location and may include morning or afternoon shifts that allow students to accumulate the required weekly observation hours.
Will I observe more than one physical therapist?
Yes. Students often observe multiple licensed physical therapists throughout their rotations, allowing exposure to different treatment styles and approaches.
Is Spanish required in the clinics?
No. Most therapists do not speak much English, but this is not an issue and is considered part of the cultural exchange. Clinics are prepared to work with international students. We also try to balance placements by pairing students who have stronger Spanish skills with clinics that use less English, and vice versa. Many students successfully use translation apps during their experience.
Do I need to know Spanish before the program?
No prior Spanish knowledge is required. However, students are encouraged to learn basic phrases and medical terminology to enhance both the clinical and cultural experience.
What travel documents do I need?
Students must have a valid passport that does not expire within six months of the program start date.
Is this okay if it’s my first time traveling abroad?
Absolutely. Many Toucan Abroad participants are first-time international travelers. The program is designed with guidance, structure, and on-site support to help students feel confident and safe.
Will Toucan Abroad staff be on-site during the program?
Yes. Toucan Abroad staff are present in-country to assist with logistics, coordination, and student support throughout the program.
Is there an orientation?
Yes. Every program begins with a comprehensive orientation covering expectations, scheduling, safety, cultural norms, and all other details needed to ensure a successful experience.
Will I have free time during the program?
Yes. Students have free time whenever they are not scheduled for clinical shadowing or program activities. This may include afternoons, evenings, or weekends depending on the clinic schedule and location.
What safety measures are in place?
Safety protocols, including curfews and group travel expectations, are reviewed during orientation. Additional safety measures may vary by location.
Is travel health insurance provided?
Yes. Toucan Abroad provides travel health insurance for all participants during the program.
How much does the program cost?
Program costs vary by location and session. Please visit the individual program pages for current pricing.
What is included in the program fee?
Program fees typically include housing, airport transportation, group excursions, some meals, clinical placement coordination, orientation, on-site staff support, and travel health insurance.
Is airfare included?
No. Airfare is not included in the program fee. However, our team is happy to assist with flight planning and recommendations.
Are meals provided?
In some locations, breakfast is provided during the work week. Additionally, 5–6 group meals are included during excursions. All other meals are the responsibility of the student.
What is not included in the program fee?
Airfare, most daily meals, daily local transportation, personal expenses, and optional activities are not included.
Are payment plans available?
Yes. Payment plans and financing options are available through Affirm and Klarna.
Are scholarships or financial aid available?
Toucan Abroad does not currently offer internal scholarships. Students are encouraged to explore university scholarships, departmental funding, and personal fundraising opportunities.
What is the cancellation or refund policy?
Deposit: Non-refundable, but fully transferable to any future Toucan Abroad program.
Cancellations after full payment is due (45 days before departure):
45 to 7 days before the program start:
- Eligible for a 50% refund of the total program fee.
- The other 50% may be transferred as a program credit toward any future Toucan Abroad program.
- No refunds are available, but 50% of the total program fee may be transferred as a program credit toward a future program.
There is time for students to travel independently, and Toucan Abroad staff may not be present on small group trips. However, best travel practices, as well as safety protocols, are stressed in orientation to prepare students to travel independently with confidence. Toucan Abroad also strongly encourages students to travel in big groups on the weekends - for safety reasons, and it’s way more fun!
How much extra spending money should I budget?
Spending varies widely depending on personal habits, location, and travel style. Extra expenses may include daily meals, local transportation, optional activities, and souvenirs. As a general guideline, $500 is a reasonable starting point, though some students may spend more or less depending on how they choose to explore during free time.
Who can apply to Toucan Abroad?
Toucan Abroad is designed for college students and graduates interested in pursuing physical therapy.
What are the eligibility requirements?
Participants must be at least 18 years old and have a minimum 2.0 GPA at the time of application.
How do I apply?
Students apply through the online application. Once accepted, a $500 deposit is required to secure a spot.
How competitive is the application process?
Programs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis and are typically capped at approximately 20 students per session.
Can I change sessions after being accepted?
Yes. Session changes are possible with sufficient notice, provided space is available in the new session.
Can I apply with a friend?
Yes. Friends are welcome to apply together.
What type of housing is provided?
Students stay in carefully selected hotels or group accommodations that are clean, safe, and centrally located.
Will I have roommates?
Yes. Students typically share rooms and bathrooms with one or two other participants. Rooming with friends is allowed when requested.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes. All program locations offer diverse cuisine and are able to accommodate most dietary needs.
How does transportation work during the program?
Airport transportation and transportation for group excursions are included. Daily transportation to clinics and around town is not included; students typically use Uber or public transportation.
Can family or friends visit during the program?
Family and friends are encouraged to visit before or after the program. If they visit during the program, they may only see the student during free time and may not participate in program excursions or group meals.
Will I have Wi-Fi and cell service?
Wi-Fi is available at accommodations. Students may choose to purchase an international phone plan, eSIM, or local SIM card for additional coverage.
Can I receive academic credit through my university?
Some students are able to receive academic credit through their university. This depends entirely on the institution. We are happy to support in any way we can to help fulfill university requirements.
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