Passports
U.S. citizens need a passport to travel outside the United States. Visit the U.S. Department of State website at: www.travel.state.gov for more information about how to apply. You should apply as early as possible. New passports processing can take over two moths. The total cost for a passport is approximately $185. If you want to expedite the processing of the passport, you will need to pay an additional $60. While the total cost may seem high your passport will be valid for ten years.
Visas
Some countries will require a student visa, which should be obtained several weeks before you plan to leave the U.S. Other countries do not have visa requirements for U.S. citizens or if your stay is considered temporary. For specific information on the requirements for your host country, please consult the embassy website at:
IMPORTANT: In some cases you are required to apply in person at the consulate of your host country having jurisdiction over Indiana (usually located in Chicago). In other cases, you can obtain the visa through an approved travel agency. Apply for your visa in plenty of time to avoid any last minute panic (or express mail expenses).