APSC 3954 German Horse Industry Study Abroad Guide: Home
Purpose
This guide has been created to help students in APSC 3954. The tabs cover different aspects of the course, starting with the main page to help prepare for the study abroad trip, and other tabs to learn more about Germany and recommendations of resources that focus on the use of horses in wartime.
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 StonePlease note: Rosetta Stone is currently undergoing university review and will be unavailable until further notice. We apologize for the inconvenience. Last updated 10.30.2024.
Rosetta Stone offers online instruction in 25 languages, including English as a second language. Always start with the Login with CAS link, where you'll create a personal profile to track your progress. Mobile app versions are available as well (after the app is installed, start with the above link in your browser).
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
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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.
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(CC0 image from https://www.maxpixel.net/)
Other preparations for Study Abroad
Be prepared!
- Check out the Global Education Office site
- What should I pack? These checklists can be helpful to make sure you don't forget anything!
- https://www.iesabroad.org/study-abroad-packing-list (also has a PDF of this list on their site!)
- https://www.studyabroad.com/student-guide-study-abroad-packing
