Medication Guidelines

How to Properly Bring Your Medications for the Residential Program at U.S. Universities

Participants attending the July residential program who need to bring medications must follow specific guidelines set by the host universities in the United States. Complying with these requirements is essential to ensure safety, proper use, and uninterrupted access to medications during your stay.

1. Medications in Original Packaging

All medications — whether for daily or occasional use — must be brought in their original packaging, clearly labeled with the student name.

Loose pills or unmarked containers will not be accepted.

2. Stored in a Transparent Ziplock Bag

Medications should be placed inside a transparent ziplock bag, making it easy to inspect during check-in at the campus. If you are bringing multiple medications, we recommend organizing them by type (e.g., daily use vs. occasional use).

Example:

3. Print All Required Forms and bring the purchase receipt

Along with the medications, all required documentation — such as completed medical forms, prescriptions, and authorization forms — must be printed and placed inside the ziplock bag for easy access and inspection

California (UCLA and UC Berkeley)

• Doctor’s prescription (required for controlled medications)
• Any specific authorization document for medication administration (if applicable)

Yale University:

• Individual Plan of Care (download HERE): ONLY if the participant has any disabilities or special health care needs the document is mandatory and must be written in English and signed by the prescriber. Filling and signing can be done electronically or by hand.
• Authorization for the Administration of Medication (download HERE): ONLY if the participant is required to be administered any medication/drug the document is mandatory and must be written in English and signed by the parent /legal guardian. Filling and signing can be done electronically or by hand. 
• A written order by an Authorized Prescriber and Written training plan: ONLY if the Authorization for the Administration of Medication includes a drug that needs to be administered other than oral (topical, inhalant, injectable by a premeasured commercially prepared auto-injector). The document must be in English and follow the guidance in this document (download HERE).

All documents must be printed, legible, and signed where necessary.

4. Carry in Hand Luggage

It is strongly recommended that all medications be packed in your carry-on luggage, to ensure access during the flight and prevent loss in case of delayed or misplaced checked baggage.

5. Declare at Immigration if Necessary

If you are bringing controlled substances or medications that are regulated in the U.S., also bring the prescription translated into English, if possible, and be prepared to declare them at immigration, if asked. For detailed guidelines, refer to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's information on traveling with medications: access here

6. 6. Bringing Dietary Supplements

• Original Packaging: Supplements must be in their sealed, original containers with clear ingredient labeling. Avoid loose pills or pill organizers.
• Limit Quantities: Bring only the amount needed for the duration of the program. Large quantities may raise concerns at customs.
• Ziplock Bag: Place all supplements in a separate transparent ziplock bag from your medications for easy inspection.
• Carry-On Only: Supplements should also be packed in your carry-on bag.
• Check U.S. Regulations: Some ingredients may be restricted or banned in the United States. For more information, consult official sources:
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection: Prohibited and Restricted Items
• FDA: Questions and Answers on Dietary Supplements

7. Refrigerated Medications: Plan Ahead for Proper Storage

If you are bringing medications that require refrigeration (such as insulin), it is essential to plan in advance to ensure proper storage throughout your stay.

• Notify the Program Team in Advance: Add all information about the medication on the Health form. If refrigeration is needed, so arrangements can be made with the university housing services.
• Label Clearly: Make sure the medication and any cooling packs are clearly labeled with the student full name.
• Use an Insulated Travel Bag: During your flight and transfer to campus, use an insulated bag or travel cooler with ice packs to maintain the correct temperature.
• Storage at Campus: Participants must inform the staff upon arrival on campus if they are carrying refrigerated medications. These will be stored securely with university staff or program coordinators, in accordance with campus protocols.
• Include Instructions: A written note (in English) with storage instructions should be placed inside the ziplock bag.

8. Emergency Medications (EpiPen, Asthma Inhalers, etc.): Immediate Access Protocol

Participants who require emergency medications must ensure these are always accessible, both during travel and throughout the program.

• Keep on You at All Times: Emergency medications like EpiPens, asthma inhalers, or other fast-acting treatments should never be packed in checked luggage or handed over at check-in. They must be kept in the participant’s personal bag or on their person.
• Bring Two Sets: It is strongly recommended to bring two sets of the emergency medication — one to remain with the student at all times, and the other to be kept by the program staff in case of an emergency.
• Notify the Staff During Check-In: Inform staff at check-in that the participant carries emergency medication so they are aware in case of an incident.
• Medical Authorization: Bring a copy of the relevant authorization and action plan signed by a physician and parent/guardian. This ensures university staff can assist appropriately if needed.
• Proper Labeling: Both sets of medication must be clearly labeled with the participant’s full name and usage instructions.

Following these guidelines is crucial to ensure your comfort, safety, and medical needs are properly met throughout the program. If you have any questions, please contact the program coordinator before traveling.