IIE American Passport Project awards UAlbany grant to cover student passport applications

By Amy Geduldig

ALBANY, N.Y. (June 16, 2026) — The University at Albany has received a grant of more than $4,000 from the IIE American Passport Project to cover passport application costs for up to 25 students interested in traveling or studying abroad.

UAlbany will distribute the funding to undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and never had an adult passport. First year students (freshmen or first semester transfers), Pell Grant recipients, EOP students and first-generation college students will receive priority consideration. Students interested in submitting an application and learning more about the program can visit the UAlbany & IIE American Passport Project webpage. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with a final deadline for submission on Sept. 15.

The grant, awarded by the Institute of International Education (IIE), is part of a national effort to expand access to international education. This year, IIE selected 40 U.S. colleges and universities to help 1,000 Pell-eligible students take the first step toward studying abroad by obtaining a U.S. passport.

Cost remains one of the most common barriers to studying abroad. By covering passport application fees, the IIE American Passport Project helps students begin the planning process earlier and work with campus advisers to explore international opportunities.

“Education and exchange drive innovation, diplomacy, and long-term stability by preparing leaders to navigate interconnected markets, emerging technologies, and global challenges,” says Jason Czyz, IIE’s president and CEO. “IIE supports opportunities that allow participants to gain global perspective, build networks, and develop lasting skills. Obtaining a passport is an essential first step to pursuing these experiences.”

Now in its sixth year, the program has supported approximately 6,000 students nationwide and moves IIE closer to its goal of helping 10,000 U.S. students obtain passports by 2030. To date, the program has issued more than 250 grants to higher education institutions in 42 states and the District of Columbia.