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Tips for students applying for a passport


You will need a valid passport to participate in all of our programs abroad. Please see the following tips to help make sure your following documents are valid and up-to-date. If you already have a passport, make sure it does not expire less than six months before your scheduled return flight.

If you are younger than 16:

Form: Apply using form DS-11

Who needs to be there? You must apply in person at an authorized passport facility. Your parents cannot drop off the form on your behalf. Both of your parents or legal guardians must be present unless you have a signed and notarized statement of consent from the non-present parent or evidence of sole custody. Click here to find an authorized passport acceptance facility in your area.

Renewal: If your passport has expired or is about to expire, you must renew your passport in person. You are not eligible to renew your passport by mail.

Expect to provide:
  • Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (an original or notarized version) 
  • Copy of the evidence of U.S. Citizenship
  • Evidence of Parental Relationship (birth certificate, adoption decree, divorce certificate)
  • Photo Identification from parents 
  • Copy of all IDs presented
  • Parental Consent (both parents present or a signed, notarized copy of this form)
  • Passport Photo (2" x 2")
  • Application Forms
  • Passport Fees


Time frame: Expect 6-8 weeks for normal processing or 2-3 weeks for expedited processing.

More info: You can find complete information and forms here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/under-16.html

If you are age 16 or 17:

Form: Apply using form DS-11

Who needs to be there? If you are 16-17 with your own identification, you can apply for a passport by yourself. However, it is recommended that at least one parent appear in person with you to identify you and to show parental awareness. Examples of "parental awareness" include being present during the application or submitting signed and notarized statement of consent along with a copy of your parent's photo identification.

Expect to provide:

  • Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (an original or notarized version) 
  • Copy of the evidence of U.S. Citizenship
  • Evidence of Parental Awareness (one parent present or a signed, notarized copy of the consent form) 
  • Photo Identification from parents 
  • Copy of all IDs presented
  • Passport Photo (2" x 2") 
  • Application Forms 
  • Passport Fees 



Time frame: Expect 6-8 weeks for normal processing or 2-3 weeks for expedited processing.

More info: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/16-17.html


Got your passport? Ready to start your international adventure with ANDEO? Check out our programs here.
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