Institute for International Education’s Passport Initiative
VCU is one of 40 U.S. colleges and universities selected to receive the 2022 Institute for International Education’s (IIE) American Passport Project grant, which awards 25 Pell-eligible students their first U.S. Passports. The Global Education Office has committed to matching this grant, increasing the total number of recipients to 50.
In partnership with VCU’s TRIO Support Services, the Global Education Office will identify eligible students and support them through the process of applying for their first-time passports, including hosting an on-campus passport application event on October 28 and covering the application fees for selected students through the grant.
GEO provides numerous global learning opportunities selected students to prepare and inspire them to put their new passports to use by studying abroad during their time at VCU.
The American Passport Project was created in alignment with IIE’s mission to diversify study abroad participation and promote equity within the field by removing a common financial barrier.
Participant Benefits
- Free U.S. Passport Book (including cost of passport photos) estimated $180.00 ($165 fee + $15 for photos), valid for 10 years from date of issue
- Individual guidance through the passport application process
- Access to international opportunities such as study abroad, international internships and research abroad programs
- Exposure to various on-campus global learning programming such as GEO’s Global Buddies program, Cultural Conversations, study abroad opportunities and other activities
- Mentoring support from GEO's Global Learning team, including support for identifying and applying for other funding and program opportunities
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an active VCU TRIO Student Support Services participant
- Must currently receive a Pell Grant
- Must be a first-year student (within the first year of full-time enrollment at VCU)
- Must be a U.S. citizen who has not previously held a U.S. passport as an adult
- Must demonstrate a willingness to participate in at least one global learning activity such as Global Buddies, Cultural Conversations, Global Cafe, and other programs offered within one year of receiving the passport.
Application Process
Interested VCU TRIO Student Support Services participants should complete this interest form, and if selected as a passport recipient, will attend an information session on September 12, noon - 1 p.m., in the Student Commons (Virginia B-C rooms). Confirmation emails will be sent to selected participants. Please contact levya@vcu.edu or bairmc@vcu.edu with additional questions concerning eligibility or event details. In addition, recipients must commit to participating in a minimum of one Global Learning experience within the year, which includes an on-campus event with Global Student Engagement or an Education Abroad experience.