Research Guides: APSC 3954 German Horse Industry Study Abroad Guide: Home

Learning the language

Being able to speak and/or read the language of the country you are visiting is a major plus when planning your trip! The University Libraries offers access to Rosetta Stone, a language-learning program:

Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone is back! Users may now access Rosetta Stone through a course shell in Canvas with the following URL https://canvas.vt.edu/enroll/KN77HJ.

Rosetta Stone is a language-learning platform offering instruction in 25 languages through an immersive approach. It features interactive lessons, TruAccent® speech recognition to refine pronunciation, and tools for naturally building vocabulary and grammar skills. The platform includes flexible learning options, and is designed to support learners at various levels.

For assistance, please contact Edward Lener, lener@vt.edu, and Craig Whetten, whettenc@vt.edu

Passport Information

Make sure your passport is current. Also check the expiration date - some countries will not consider the passport valid if it will expire in less than six months!

For Germany: The passport should be valid for at least three months (6 months recommended) beyond the period of stay. Further information on entry, visa and passport requirements may be obtained from the German Embassy at 4645 Reservoir Road N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007, telephone (202) 298-4000.

How long will it take to get a new passport or renew a passport?

As of April 2023, the US Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs notes it is taking 10-13 weeks (3-4 months) to process passports. Expedited passports (for an additional fee) are taking 7-9 weeks.
More information at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html/

What if I only have a passport card?

For travel to Germany, you must have a passport book (A passport book is the only document approved for international air travel).

How much does a passport cost?

It depends, see https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html for your situation

Do I need to apply for a passport in person?

Yes if this is your first passport, your first passport was issued when you were under 16, or if your current passport has been lost, stolen, or damaged - https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html
If none of the above apply, you can renew your passport via mail

Where can I apply for a passport in person? (The following are the passport application acceptance facilities in Blacksburg. All are available by appointment only)

Where can I get a passport photo taken?

You can have someone take a picture of you, as long as it meets the official guidelines for a passport photo.
Some of the passport application acceptance locations listed above will take passport photos (may be a fee)
CVS and Walgreens stores offer passport photo services (for a fee)
FedEx and UPS locations offer passport photo services (for a fee)

Where is the closest passport agency if I need a passport sooner?

Washington, DC
- There are two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service. You cannot walk-in. There is no fee to make an appointment.
  
  You can only make an appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778. Se habla español. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call 1-888-874-7793 for TDD/TTY teletype services.
  
  You cannot transfer your appointment to another customer.
- Your appointment date must be within 5 business days of travel. If you need a foreign visa, the appointment can be within 10 business days of travel.