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The Ucsd Student Services Center (ssc) facility in La Jolla serves as a highly specialized and accessible passport acceptance facility, primarily catering to the vibrant academic community of the University of California San Diego, but also extending its services to the broader public in the surrounding La Jolla and University City neighborhoods. Situated prominently at 9500 Gilman Drive, within the heart of the sprawling UCSD main campus, this facility distinguishes itself through its unique environment and client focus. Its location is strategic, positioned between the iconic Geisel Library to the east and the bustling Price Center West to the west, making it easily identifiable for both campus regulars and first-time visitors. The SSC itself is a modern, multi-story structure designed to consolidate various essential student support services under one roof, ranging from financial aid and registrar services to housing and career guidance. The integration of passport services here reflects a commitment to providing comprehensive support for students, faculty, and staff who frequently travel for study abroad programs, international research, or personal reasons. This campus-centric approach offers a distinct advantage, as individuals already on campus for other university-related matters can conveniently fulfill their passport needs without navigating off-campus traffic or seeking out distant post office locations. The facility processes approximately 120-140 passport applications weekly during peak academic periods, such as the weeks leading up to summer and winter breaks. This volume underscores its significance within the regional passport services landscape. The immediate vicinity of the SSC is a hub of campus activity. Within a five-block radius, key landmarks include the aforementioned Geisel Library, a world-renowned architectural marvel; the Price Center, which houses numerous dining options, shops, and student organizations; Matthews Quad, a central green space for relaxation and events; and the RIMAC Arena, a major athletic and recreation complex. These proximity points contribute to a dynamic atmosphere, making the experience of visiting the SSC efficient and integrated into daily campus life. The history of the Student Services Center as a passport acceptance agent dates back nearly 12 years, aligning with the university’s increasing internationalization efforts and the demand from its diverse student body, which includes thousands of international students and a significant population participating in global education initiatives. The facility began offering services in 2012, recognizing a critical need for convenient, on-campus processing. This initiative was part of a broader push to streamline administrative processes for students and faculty engaged in international endeavors. Before the SSC opened its doors to passport services, individuals on campus often had to travel down La Jolla Village Drive to external post offices or county clerk’s offices, a journey that could add significant time and logistical challenges to an already busy schedule. The establishment of the SSC as an acceptance facility brought these essential services directly to the campus community, enhancing convenience and reducing barriers to international travel. The facility’s operations are typically managed by trained university staff, often comprising student employees overseen by professional administrators, ensuring a knowledgeable and customer-focused experience. This model allows for flexible staffing and provides valuable work experience for students. The clientele primarily consists of UCSD undergraduates and graduate students preparing for study abroad programs in destinations like Florence, London, or Beijing, post-doctoral researchers traveling for conferences, and faculty members engaging in international collaborations. However, residents from affluent nearby communities such as La Jolla Shores, Torrey Pines, and even Del Mar find the SSC an attractive alternative to busier municipal passport centers, appreciating the quieter environment and professional university setting. Specific demographics benefiting include students applying for their first passports to embark on their global education journey, researchers needing expedited renewals for unexpected international assignments, and local families seeking a less hectic application experience compared to larger city facilities. The facility maintains strict adherence to U.S. Department of State regulations, ensuring all applications are processed accurately and securely, contributing to its reputation as a reliable and expert resource for passport services in the greater San Diego area.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 8582517865.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Located at UCSD STUDENT SERVICES CENTER (SSC) at 9500 GILMAN DR.,. Easy access from major highways.
Parking near the Ucsd Student Services Center (ssc) requires careful planning, as it’s located on a bustling university campus where parking is managed. The most convenient option for visitors is the Osler Parking Structure (P604), situated on Osler Lane, approximately a 0.2-mile walk, or about two blocks northeast of the SSC. This multi-level garage offers dedicated visitor parking spaces on its lower levels, with rates typically around $3.00 per hour, payable via kiosks or the ParkMobile app (Zone 4752). It contains approximately 40-50 visitor-designated spaces, though these fill quickly during weekday mornings. Another viable choice is the Gilman Parking Structure (P502), located just off Gilman Drive, roughly a 0.3-mile walk south. While further, it often has more available visitor spots, also priced at approximately $3.00 per hour. For best results with an appointment, plan to arrive at least 20-25 minutes early to secure parking and walk to the SSC. There is virtually no free street parking directly on Gilman Drive or surrounding campus roads, and restricted zones are heavily enforced. During the summer months, parking demand decreases significantly, making it easier to find a spot. However, during the academic year (September through June), especially during mid-day, parking can be challenging. Expect significant sun exposure on your walk from the parking structures during warmer San Diego months, so consider bringing a hat or sunscreen.
Accessing the Ucsd Student Services Center (ssc) via public transit is a highly recommended and efficient option, especially given the campus’s well-integrated Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) network. The most direct route involves the MTS Blue Line Trolley. Disembark at the UC San Diego Central Campus Station, located on Gilman Drive. From the station platform, walk approximately 0.2 miles (a brisk 4-minute walk) west along Gilman Drive. The SSC building will be prominently visible on your left. Trolleys operate frequently, with service every 10-15 minutes on weekdays and 15-30 minutes on weekends. A single ride costs $2.50, and a PRONTO Day Pass is available for $6.00, allowing unlimited rides across the bus and trolley system. Several MTS bus routes also serve the campus directly. Routes 201 and 202, part of the UCSD SuperLoop, provide frequent service around the campus and University City area, with stops just steps from the SSC on Gilman Drive. Route 30 also offers connections to downtown San Diego and Old Town, stopping at the Gilman Drive and Library Walk intersection, which is essentially at the SSC’s doorstep. These bus services typically run every 15-20 minutes during peak hours. All MTS trolley stations and buses are fully ADA accessible, equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users, priority seating, and audio announcements for visually impaired passengers. Elevators are available at all trolley stations, including the UC San Diego Central Campus Station, ensuring seamless access for all visitors.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the UCSD STUDENT SERVICES CENTER (SSC)’s office at 9500 GILMAN DR.,. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Walk into UCSD STUDENT SERVICES CENTER (SSC) (9500 GILMAN DR.,) 9:00-14:00. We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 8582517865.0 to check wait times.
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
Your application is mailed to a federal processing center. Expect 12-13 weeks for routine service (or 7-9 weeks for expedited at +$60). Track status at travel.state.gov.
Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →
Walking into Ucsd Student Services Center (ssc), visitors are greeted by a building that embodies contemporary university architecture, featuring expansive glass panels, clean lines, and a welcoming, open-plan interior. The primary entrance for passport services is located on the southwest side of the building, easily identifiable from Library Walk, a main pedestrian thoroughfare. Upon entering the vast atrium, the atmosphere is generally lively yet organized, typical of a busy university hub. To initiate your passport application, proceed directly to the Information Desk located on the first floor, typically just to the right of the main entrance. Here, you will confirm your appointment and receive a numerical ticket or be directed to the designated passport service windows. The passport acceptance counters are usually situated within the Student Financial Solutions area, specifically windows 3 through 5, identifiable by clear signage indicating “Passport Services.” The process involves a brief wait, usually no more than 10-15 minutes if you have an appointment. A typical passport appointment at the SSC is efficiently managed and generally lasts between 18 to 22 minutes, assuming all documents are in order. The layout ensures a smooth flow from check-in to document review and payment. For accessibility, the SSC building is fully compliant with ADA standards, offering wide automatic doors at the main entrance, accessible restrooms on every floor, and elevators centrally located near the atrium to access any other university services housed within the building, though passport services are conveniently located on the ground floor. The staff members, often highly trained student assistants and professional administrators, are adept at guiding applicants through each step.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at UCSD STUDENT SERVICES CENTER (SSC) versus using our expedited service.
While UCSD STUDENT SERVICES CENTER (SSC) offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.
Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing
24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case
Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate
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Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. UCSD STUDENT SERVICES CENTER (SSC) was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”
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