Passport to Go!

× We are not accepting applications for this program due to the evolving nature of COVID-19 and constraints on passport processing through the U.S. Department of State. We encourage you to explore local global experiences and other funding opportunities at Carolina.

Purpose

Seeded by a grant from the UNC Parents Council and sustained by generous support from alumni and friends, this award provides funding for first-year or new transfer students to obtain their first U.S. passport and opportunities to learn about global experiences and resources available at UNC. The primary goal of this award is to encourage students to begin participating in global opportunities early in their academic careers.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the award, the student must:

• Be a first-year or new transfer undergraduate student
• Demonstrate financial need by either: (a) being eligible for need-based financial aid at UNC or (b) providing a statement detailing the specific situation and need for this support.*
• Have never before held, but is eligible to apply for, a U.S. passport during their first year at UNC
• Agree to all of the award requirements as listed below (Some exceptions for official and excused absences can be made with prior approval.)
• Be willing to explore global opportunities through service, study, research or professional experiences both locally and abroad

*Although demonstrating financial need is required to be eligible for this program, if funding is limited, students with the most financial need will be offered support first.

Available Funding & Disbursement

The award amount of $145 covers the application cost for a U.S. passport, and it will be disbursed at the annual UNC Global Passport Drive. Recipients will be expected to cover the cost of passport photos ($7 to $15).

Notification of Award

Applicants will be notified approximately two weeks after the application deadline via email. Please do not contact the Center for Global Initiatives to inquire about the status of your application during this time frame.

Award Requirements

Students will be required to…

• Apply for a passport at the annual UNC Global Passport Drive (Date TBD – usually around November)
• Attend one Global Project Showcase presentation OR one Funding Application Workshop offered in conjunction with The Writing Center (offered multiple times during both fall and spring semesters)
• Tentative – Attend a networking event in the spring semester

Students are also encouraged to…

• Complete periodic evaluations over the next four years
• Attend focus groups aimed at improving access to global opportunities

Application Instructions

The entire application process must be completed online, and you can view a preview of the full application before you begin. The application consists of the following:

• Basic biographical information
• Questions to determine program eligibility
• Two short answer questions

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