What is Title IX Compliance and Why Is It Important for International Students?

Many international students dream about studying in the United States, but they often fail to realize it comes with various challenges beyond academics. Moving to a new country with different norms, customs, and expectations often leaves them in a cultural shock. Also, they are required to educate themselves about new laws and their legal rights.

Interestingly, many international students stay unaware of their rights in areas like fair treatment in housing, freedom of speech, and also protection from discrimination. Speaking of discrimination, if it is related to sex or gender identity, all students are protected under Title IX.

Know Your Rights Under Title IX When Studying Abroad

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 ensures no sex discrimination happens in any educational program or activity. Any public or private school, university, school district, or even college receiving federal funds must ensure Title IX compliance. Here’s a screenshot from the US government’s website so that you can read it in their own words.

Various websites are now available with title IX services to support universities with compliance, including decision-making, training, investigation, and information resolution of any complaint.

Now, many international students don’t know much about these regulations and compliances. If you’re studying abroad and have experienced sexual violence in any way, you must practice your Title IX rights. The law protects every student, irrespective of their nationality – you are also protected even if you have a disability or specific sexual orientation.

You can always report the incident to campus or local law enforcement but know that the school is still held responsible for taking appropriate actions under Title IX. In fact, schools must have a Title IX coordinator on campus to help students and employees get timely assistance. They should be contacted when needed.

Benefits of Choosing Title IX Compliance School

For Indian students pursuing higher education in the USA, opting for a Title IX compliant institution offers various benefits that enhance their personal safety. Being at a Title IX complaint school prioritizes creating an inclusive environment for all students. With a robust system in place, it is easier to prevent and address sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination. This added layer of protection is of paramount importance for Indian students or any international students adjusting to a new cultural setting.

Next up, choosing a Title IX compliant school ensures equal opportunities for Indian students in academics and athletics. If you are interested in joining a specific academic program or want to participate in college athletics, Title IX compliant schools ensure you get a level playing field. It is even more beneficial for female students who usually don’t get enough athletic or quality education opportunities in their home country.

Furthermore, these schools offer mandatory training to help prevent sexual harassment in the first place. The training is invaluable for international students with different cultural notions regarding personal boundaries and gender relations. With this training, international students develop the skills needed to handle social situations in a new cultural environment.

Endnote

When you want to study in the US and are learning new facts about the country, you must also educate yourself about the laws to ensure a safer and more productive learning experience. Many schools and universities take sexual abuse very seriously, and they also have a Title IX coordinator on board to help; so be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to report any abuse when studying abroad.