A passport is like a driver’s license to the world, a critical part of a pathway to global study, research, and careers.
As part of our mission to expand access to global learning for Rutgers University students, Rutgers Global-Study Abroad is excited to announce the return of our annual initiative to increase the number of Rutgers University matriculated students (including Newark, Camden, RBHS, and New Brunswick) with U.S. passports.
For 2023-2024, Rutgers Global-Study Abroad had earmarked approximately 200 passports for Rutgers students. RGSA is also awarding is also awarding an additional 25 passports to qualified students as part of the IIE Passport Grant. Thanks to an exciting new development, ALL qualified Camden students are eligible to be awarded!
Applications for the academic year 2023-2024 are OPEN!!
How it Works:
This passport initiative will cover the cost of applying for a first-time U.S. passport at a passport-processing USPS location, the Middlesex County Clerk's Office, or Camden County Clerk's Office.
Who is Eligible:
This initiative is open to all matriculated Rutgers U.S. citizens who have never received an adult U.S. passport. If a student is found ineligible at any point, Rutgers Global-Study Abroad reserves the right to revoke award funding.*
*Funding is limited.
There is no obligation to complete a study abroad program through Rutgers Global. This initiative is NOT tied to any particular study abroad program or academic term. It is meant to serve our students and help them acquire their first-ever passports!
Please keep in mind: Passport processing times can take up to 5 - 6 months. If you are taking part in a study abroad program during the current or upcoming academic term, you will not receive your passport in time for the start of your program if you apply through this initiative.
What it Involves:
Submit an application through the Terra Dotta database, which includes the following core components:
- Learning Content on "Initiative Eligibility and Timeline"
- Learning Content on "Passport Appointment + DS-11"
- Virtual "Orientation" Session
- One (1) "Dreams and Barriers" Mini-Prompt.
- One (1) "Citizenship" Mini-Prompt.
Cost Breakdown of U.S. Passport Fees:
- Application fee $130.00
- Post Office Photo fee $15.00
- Execution fee $35.00
Total cost covered by Rutgers Passport to the World Initiative up to $180.00
Application Process:
The RGSA Committee will review the applications and issue award letters to selected students with instructions on a rolling basis.
When to Submit
Application Submission Deadline (Graduating, Fall 2023): October 15, 2023
Application Submission Deadline (Graduating, Winter 2024): October 15, 2023
Application Submission Deadline (Graduating, Spring 2024): March 1, 2024
Application Submission Deadline (Graduating, Summer 2024): March 1, 2024
Application Submission Deadline (Returning / Non-Graduating): April 1, 2024
Questions?
Please review the FAQ for the latest on deadlines, funding availability (updated weekly), and all of the important information you'll need.
Additional Details about the overall application and passport appointment process will be covered during "Orientation".
If you still have questions after reading the FAQ, please email Lisha (lj302@scarletmail.rutgers.edu)
Additional Information
FAQs
I had a passport as a child but not as an adult. Do I still qualify to apply? +
Yes. Since your first passport was issued when you were a minor, you now need an adult version.
Should I apply for my passport before hearing that I've been awarded? +
No, you must wait until you've received your official award letter. We will be scheduling a day and time for you to pick up the checks.
Do I have to study abroad in the future to apply or receive the award? +
No, you are not required to study abroad to receive this award.
What is the time frame for acceptance? +
Rutgers Global reviews completed applications weekly.
Would I get a passport in time to go abroad for the Spring? +
It usually takes 10 to 13 weeks to process a passport (processing times start when the application is received at a passport agency or center). Depending upon your study abroad program, you may need your passport before applying for a visa (if applicable) and may be needed to purchase your flight. You will need to plan accordingly.
How will the U.S. Passport fees be covered? +
Rutgers Global will notify students if they have received the award, and students will be given two money orders to pay for the passport application fee and the passport processing fee. Further information will be provided in the official award email.
What if I need the passport expedited? +
Expediting a passport requires additional fees, for which you will be responsible.