National Passport Month: Why Your Passport Is the First Step Toward Studying Abroad
September is a great time to think about one of the most important things you’ll need before studying abroad: your passport.
For students dreaming about spending a semester, summer, or academic year in another country, getting a passport may seem like a small administrative step. In reality, it can be the document that turns “I want to study abroad someday” into an experience you can actually begin planning.
At Joy Worldwide Inc., we believe access to global education starts long before a student boards a plane. Understanding the passport process, planning ahead, and knowing where to find support can make taking that first step much easier.
Why You Should Get a Passport Before You Think You Need One
You don't have to wait until you've selected a study abroad program to start thinking about your passport.
Having a valid passport early can make the study abroad process much smoother. Programs may request passport information, and depending on your destination and length of stay, you may also need your passport before beginning a student visa or residence permit application.
Applying early also gives you more flexibility and helps prevent passport processing from becoming another source of stress before departure.
The U.S. Department of State currently estimates routine passport processing at 4–6 weeks and expedited processing at 2–3 weeks. These estimates do not include mailing time, which can add additional weeks to the overall process.
How Much Does a U.S. Passport Cost?
For a first-time adult applicant age 16 or older, a U.S. passport book currently has a $130 application fee plus a $35 acceptance fee.
Eligible adults renewing a passport book pay a $130 application fee. Expedited service costs an additional $60.
A passport book is generally what students will need for international air travel. A passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
Because these costs can add up—especially alongside airfare, program fees, visas, and other study abroad expenses—students should include passport costs in their study abroad budget from the beginning.
How to Apply for Your First U.S. Passport
If you're applying for your first adult passport, you'll generally need to apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility.
The U.S. Department of State provides information about required documents, identification, passport photos, fees, and where to apply.
Before beginning your application, visit the official U.S. Department of State passport website for the latest requirements.
You can also review the Department of State's first-time adult passport application instructions.
Already Have a Passport? Check the Expiration Date
If you already have a passport, take a minute this September to check when it expires.
Don't assume that having an unexpired passport automatically means you're ready to travel. Entry requirements vary by destination, and some countries require a passport to remain valid for a certain period beyond your planned travel dates.
Students should check the specific entry requirements for their study abroad destination and begin the renewal process early when necessary.
Eligible U.S. citizens may be able to renew their passports online or by mail.
Your Passport Is Part of Your Study Abroad Budget
When students think about the cost of studying abroad, tuition and airfare often come to mind first.
But preparing to go abroad can include several additional expenses:
Passport application or renewal fees
Passport photos
Visa or residence permit fees
Transportation to application appointments
Expedited processing when necessary
International airfare
Baggage
Travel insurance
Local transportation and other arrival expenses
Planning for these expenses early can make the financial side of studying abroad feel much more manageable.
It is also worth asking your university's study abroad and financial aid offices whether they know of resources that can help students cover pre-departure expenses.
A Passport Can Represent More Than a Travel Document
For some students, receiving a passport may be a normal part of preparing for an international trip.
For others, it can represent something much bigger.
It might mean being the first person in their family to own a passport. The first to study in another country. The first to live abroad. Or simply the first to realize that an international education is an opportunity available to them, too.
That's why expanding access to study abroad isn't only about helping students once they've been accepted into a program. It's also about helping students navigate the steps that come before it.
Let September Be Your Reminder to Start
If studying abroad is something you've been thinking about, use National Passport Month as your reminder to take one small step toward making it happen.
Check your passport.
Look at the expiration date.
Research the application process.
Start budgeting for the fee.
And if you don't have a passport yet, consider starting your application before you have a plane ticket in hand.
The places you've been dreaming about may feel far away now, but every international journey has to start somewhere.
For many students, it starts with a passport.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Joy Worldwide Inc., we're committed to expanding access to study abroad opportunities for underrepresented undergraduate students and helping students navigate their journeys toward global education.
Whether you're getting your first passport, researching scholarships, or preparing to leave the country for the first time, you don't have to navigate the process alone.