You are required to have a valid passport to study away on programs outside the U.S. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the end date of your program. Resources for how to apply for or renew a passport can be found here. Due to the current pandemic, passport processing times have increased substantially (routine service is taking up to 18 weeks and expedited service can take up to 12 weeks). Apply now if you need a new passport.
Visas are an official authorization appended to a passport, permitting entry into and travel within a particular country or region. Many countries require students participating on study away programs to obtain a visa to legally study in their country. The process can be time consuming and varies by country. Oftentimes, students must travel to the country's consulate or embassy in the U.S. for a visa appointment and the consulate may retain your passport for the duration of time it takes them to process your student visa. Your study away program will let you know if a student visa is required and what the application process and timeline is.