The University of Kentucky has been selected by the Institute of International Education (IIE) to receive funding from the IIE American Passport Project. This grant will support up to 25 Pell Grant-eligible students in obtaining their first U.S. passports and participating in the university’s signature overseas career preparation program, “Exploring First: Careers, Culture, and Connections.” The University of Kentucky is one of 45 institutions awarded funding in this round.
The IIE American Passport Project aims to reach a diverse range of U.S. student populations who have historically not participated in study abroad opportunities. To date, the program has awarded grants to 220 higher education institutions across 40 states and the District of Columbia. The latest funding round includes seven community colleges, the highest number ever in a single cycle, as well as institutions collaborating to maximize impact and one university dedicated to serving deaf and hard-of-hearing students nationwide and globally. The selection process prioritizes institutions with demonstrated commitments to supporting students from low-income families and those who have not previously studied abroad as adults or during their education.
By removing initial financial barriers related to passport applications and prioritizing students early in their college careers, IIE and the awardees work collaboratively to increase study abroad participation on campuses nationwide.
“This funding perfectly complements our efforts through the ‘Exploring First’ program,” said Sue Roberts, Vice Provost for Internationalization. “We are dedicated to making study abroad accessible because we understand its impact on academic success and career readiness. This grant will directly assist students in obtaining their first U.S. passports, an important step with both practical and symbolic significance. We are proud that the University of Kentucky has been selected for this support.”
As Kentucky’s flagship land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky is committed to advancing the development of the Commonwealth. The university focuses on nurturing the next generation of leaders by placing students at the center of its mission and transforming lives through education, research, creative work, service, and healthcare. The university’s community includes visionary and innovative staff across 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research enterprise, and a world-class medical center—all located on a single campus.
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