Health and Safety Updates
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Coronavirus
Last updated: July 22, 2020
The safety and security of our program participants is always our utmost priority, and as such we have made the difficult decision to cancel our summer 2020 programs in New York City, Vienna, and London. All participants from cancelled 2020 programs received acceptance into the 2021 Honors Performance Series and were sent individualized communication by email and phone about their 2021 program acceptance. Please let us know if you were previously enrolled in a 2020 program and have not received our email and phone communications.
The Honors Performance Series is operated by WorldStrides, a global company with more than 50 years of experience. Along with our WorldStrides teammates, we continue to monitor the coronavirus (COVID-19) with the support of our medical and risk management partners.
Here are some answers to questions we are frequently hearing from performers and their families:
How will my future experience be modified for safety?
WorldStrides assembled a cross-functional team we call our Back to Travel Task Force in early spring of 2020, and we have been working to prepare all our programs to run in 2021 ever since. This Task Force leverages decades of experience across our company to assess the safety of the destinations where we operate programs, stay abreast of openings/closings, understand new protocols and regulations from our partners, and create trainings and detailed safety plans to manage the risks associated with COVID-19. As circumstances evolve, we will continue to make adjustments to our programs as needed. To view the most current information and procedures, visit our Health and Safety page.
Travel with Confidence
How will my experience be modified for safety?
Will my future program be canceled?
At this time, we are planning to host students and their loved ones in 2021. We are currently accepting applications from High School and Young Adult performers and will begin accepting Middle School applications this fall. We are committed to participant safety, and as new information on the coronavirus becomes available, we will not hesitate to make any changes as needed.
I was enrolled in a summer 2020 program that was cancelled. What will happen to my account?
All participants of cancelled programs were sent appropriate program in 2021 or the option to cancel and seek a refund. Please reference your email for additional details specific to your 2021 participation. Additionally, a summary of the information provided in the email and FAQs specific to the program in which you were enrolled is available on your password-protected (Junior) Finalist Update Page.
I was enrolled in a summer 2020 program and am unable to join in 2021. Will I receive a refund?
Participants who requested to cancel their 2021 participation prior to May 22 will be refunded 100% of their 2020 funds paid, minus any previously assessed fees for returned checks or electronic payments. Unfortunately, merchandise purchased from our third-party memorabilia store is nonrefundable. If you are unable to join in 2021 and have not yet requested to cancel your participation, please contact our team as soon as possible, and we will share additional details about refund availability and timing.
How is WorldStrides handling the financial impact of the pandemic on the travel industry?
We are pleased to have reached an agreement with our lenders and owners on a recapitalization that will strengthen the company’s financial position. This recapitalization will support WorldStrides’ ongoing business operations and the continued payment of cash refunds to 2020 travelers who were offered acceptance to a 2021 program that they are unable to attend.
We look forward to continuing our successful 50-year history offering innovative programs and transformative experiences for our participants around the world.
For any additional questions, please reference our or call our Customer Support Team at +1-800-503-0807. We appreciate your continued support and hope to see you again soon!
The Honors Performance Series is proudly presented and operated by WorldStrides.
