Your passport is one of the most important documents in your study abroad application. It confirms your identity and citizenship, and is used to verify every other document you submit. Here is what you need to know before uploading your passport to your ApplyBoard application.
Note: Some institutions have specific passport copy requirements — for example, requiring a colour copy or that all four edges of the passport are visible in the scan. Always check the Application Requirements tab for your program before uploading.
Passport ready? Start your application.
Browse programs at top institutions worldwide and apply for free through ApplyBoard.
What Is a Passport?
A passport is an official document issued by your government that certifies your citizenship and identity. It is required for international travel and is the primary identity document used in study abroad applications. The design and colour of passports vary by country.
When you apply to study abroad through ApplyBoard, your passport is used as the foundation for verifying all other documents you submit — your name, date of birth, and nationality on every other document must match your passport exactly.
Passport Validity Requirements
Your passport must be valid — not expired — to apply to study abroad. Most institutions and immigration authorities require your passport to be valid for at least six months to one year beyond the start date of your program. Check the Application Requirements tab for the specific validity requirement for your program.
Warning! If your passport expires before your program start date, you must renew it before submitting your application. Applications submitted with a passport that expires before the intake start date will not be accepted.
How to Submit Your Passport Copy
When uploading your passport to your ApplyBoard application, follow these guidelines to avoid delays:
- Upload the photo/bio data page — the page that shows your photo, full name, date of birth, passport number, issue date, and expiry date
- Ensure all four edges of the passport page are visible in the scan — do not crop the image
- Upload a colour copy unless the institution specifically states black and white is acceptable
- Ensure the image is clear and high resolution — blurry or dark scans are a common cause of document rejection
- Your name on the passport must exactly match the name used across all other application documents — including transcripts, test scores, and the application form
Tip! Use a scanner rather than a phone camera where possible — scanned copies are usually clearer and less likely to be rejected. If using a phone, photograph your passport on a flat, well-lit surface and check that all text is fully readable before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
No — only valid passports are accepted for study abroad applications. If your passport has expired, you must apply for a new one before submitting your application to any institution.
Check the expiry date printed on the photo page of your passport and compare it to today's date. The expiry date is typically shown in DD MMM YYYY format (for example: 15 JUN 2027).
It depends on when your passport expires relative to your program start date:
- If your passport expires before your intake start date, you must renew it before submitting your application.
- If your passport expires after your intake start date, the institution may accept it at their discretion — but they may later ask you to provide a renewed passport before enrollment.
- As a general rule, your passport should be valid for at least six months to one year beyond your program start date at the time of application. Check the Application Requirements tab for the specific requirement for your program.
Yes — if you have already submitted your passport renewal to the passport authority, you will receive an application letter or receipt. However, you must wait until your new passport is received before submitting your study abroad application. Only a valid passport — not an application receipt — is accepted by institutions.
Your passport is the primary document used to cross-check all other application materials. Once ApplyBoard receives your required forms, our team will review whether the signature is acceptable or whether clarification is needed. If there is a discrepancy, we will contact you directly.
Name mismatches between your passport and other documents (such as transcripts or test score reports) can cause delays or rejections. If your name has changed or there is a discrepancy, provide a supporting document such as a name change certificate, marriage certificate, or affidavit alongside your application. Learn more: Access 24/7 Live Chat Support.
Ready to move forward with your application?
Already on ApplyBoard? Head to your dashboard to upload your passport. New to ApplyBoard? Create your free account and get started today.