The purpose of export controls is to restrict the dissemination of technology, goods, and information to foreign nationals, countries, banned entities, and sanctioned companies. Exporting information without taking the necessary precautions poses a serious security risk to the U.S. and could result in strict criminal and civil penalties.
Export controls are currently regulated by the U.S. Department of State through its Export Administration Regulations (EAR), U.S. Department of Commerce through its International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and the U.S. Department of Treasury through its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
This site is intended to provide information for faculty and students who may be traveling to foreign countries, working with foreign nationals on research projects, or transmitting equipment or information to foreign nationals. Importantly, information does not have to be transmitted outside the U.S. to violate export regulations. Exports of information that take place inside the U.S. are known as "deemed exports" because the information may be indirectly passed through a foreign national to a foreign country.
Consult the navigation menu to learn more about the specific entities involved and how to be sure that you are taking the necessary precautions to avoid export violations.
Importantly, the EAR, ITAR, and OFAC regulations are not intended to restrict all academic activities. Therefore, there are specific exceptions and exemptions (fundamental research, public domain, laptop, teaching, and bona fide employee) that may apply to the dissemination of information in some university instructional, research and service settings. Navigate the menu for more information on each of these exceptions.
Contact Research and Graduate Studies if you have questions about meeting export control regulations.
