Some study abroad students are experiencing unusually long delays in obtaining U.S. passports and are concerned that they may be prevented from participating in their study abroad programs if they do not receive their passports before their scheduled departure dates. Texas State University-San Marcos does not issue passports, and the university cannot accept responsibility for any costs and difficulties students experience because of delays in receiving passports.

The Office of Study Abroad Programs recommends that students who are experiencing difficulty obtaining passports do the following:

• Act proactively, but with suitable politeness and restraint, to secure passports. Texas State students who study abroad, as well as all students enrolled in Texas State study abroad programs, are responsible for their own travel and documents.

• Check in advance with your travel agent, airline, travel insurance company, and study abroad program provider or Academic Program Director on policies regarding rescheduling, cancellation, etc.

• Visit or contact the U.S. Pasport Office (located in Houston for most Texas State students). Refer to the State Department website for additional information on passports.

• Notify your study abroad program provider, Academic Program Director, or the Office of Study Abroad Programs that you may be delayed, and provide your revised travel itinerary when it is available.