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Pre-Departure Information

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Table of Contents

  1. General Orientation Information for All Students
  2. Passport FAQ
  3. Important Links

General Orientation Information for All Students

All UGA students must read the Pre-Departure Orientation Handbook.

UGA Common Phrases Sheets

Heading to a country with an unfamiliar language? We have developed translation sheets with common phrases in a multitude of language to help you jump past that language barrier and create a better experience! Our Common Phrase Sheets are available in the following languages:

Passport FAQ

Q: Do I need a passport to study abroad?
A: Yes. All individuals, regardless of age, must have their own passport when traveling internationally by air. It is recommended that students apply for a passport as soon as they start considering study abroad or other international travel. If you already have a passport, check the expiration date to ensure that it will be valid for at least 3 months after you expect to return.

Q: How long does it take to get a passport?
A: It takes approximately 4-6 weeks to get a passport, although you can pay a fee for expedited service (3 weeks). You should check the validity of your passport well in advance of your study abroad trip. Keep in mind that passports must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the traveler's intended date of departure from the country if traveling to the Schengen Area or 6 months anywhere else in the world. For example, if you will return from Europe on July 1st and your passport expires July 30 of the same year, you will need to renew your passport before traveling or risk not being able to enter the country.

Important Note for travelers to the Russian Federation: According to the immigration laws of the Russian Federation, a Russian visa will be issued only if a passport is valid. A passport is considered to be valid if it has at least 2 blank pages marked “Visas” and does not expire for at least 6 months after the Russian visa expiry date.

Q: How do I apply for a passport?
A: Follow the instructions on the U.S. Department of State website.

Q: How much does a passport cost?
A: Adult first time applicants (age 16 and older) must pay $140 for a passport. Fees are different for renewals and for minors under age 16. See Passport Fees for more information.

Q: Where can I apply for a passport?
A: First time applicants must apply in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility. The UGA Tate Student Center Print & Copy is a passport acceptance facility. Alternatively, use this search page to find a location near you.

If you are renewing a passport, you may be eligible to submit your application by mail. See Where To Apply for more information.

For more frequently asked questions, see the U.S. Department of State Passport FAQ.
Recommendations to Parents of Students Studying Abroad
  • For parent/guardians and families of students studying abroad.
Links for Diverse Groups
  • For students looking for additional resources geared towards diversity.
Destination Details for UGA Study Abroad Programs
  • For students attending traditional UGA Study Abroad Programs. For non-traditional UGA programs (internships, independent research, etc.) please see your program director for similar information.
Road Safety Reports
  • Association for Safe International Road Travel.