SUNY Cortland is dedicated to removing barriers for students who wish to study abroad. One way we work to advance this goal is through the Red Dragons Global Passport Program. This program offers free passports for first-time adult U.S. passport applicants. We recognize that the cost of applying for a passport may be prohibitive, and the process may be confusing. As a participant in this program you will receive a fully funded U.S. passport, including passport photo fees. You will also receive support throughout the passport application process from the International Programs Office.
Questions? Please contact us at [email protected]
Eligibility:
Eligible applicants must be:
- Eligible for an adult U.S. passport
- Degree-seeking SUNY Cortland student in good academic standing
- Eligible for a Pell Grant or TAP; or a first-generation college student
- Must be planning to study abroad while enrolled as a SUNY Cortland student
- Student must apply for their passport during the term in which the award is granted
Priority given to:
- Students who may not be able to study abroad without this assistance
- Students who have never had an adult U.S. passport
- First-year students who will have more time to use their passport and study abroad
Application Process:
Complete the online application by posted application deadlines (September 15 and February 15). You will be asked when you plan to study abroad (it’s okay if you aren’t 100% sure yet!) and to write a short statement about the impact this award would have on you and on your ability to study abroad. The use of AI in writing your statement is prohibited.
Timeline:
- Submit the online application.
- Attend a passport application workshop hosted by the International Programs Office. We will walk you through the application and answer any questions.
- Gather required documents. This includes your birth certificate and photo ID (like a driver’s license). If your ID is from a state other than NY, you will need a second form of ID (such as student ID card).
- Pick up your check, made out to the U.S. Department of State, from the International Programs Office.
- Visit the Cortland County Clerk’s office to get your photo taken and submit your application. The International Programs Office will arrange one group trip, or you may go at a time which is convenient for you.
Passport Application Tips:
- Your passport must reflect your legal name, including middle name if you have one.
- Your passport must reflect your gender as assigned at birth. At this time, you cannot self-select or change the gender marker on your passport, even if you have an amended birth certificate.
- You will need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship in order to apply – generally this will be in the form of your birth certificate.
- Passports take about 4 – 6 weeks to process but may take longer. Plan to apply well in advance of any travel. If your travel is sooner than the processing time window, there may be options to get a passport issued more quickly. Please contact the International Programs Office if you are in this situation.