What is my first step in planning for study abroad?
The first step is to attend a mandatory Information Session. We recommend that you start planning at least a year in advance. At the meeting you can make an appointment with the Study Abroad Advisor to continue planning for study abroad.

How much does it cost to study abroad?
It varies depending on the program and length of stay.

Can I use financial aid and scholarships to help pay for study abroad?
YES! Students may use financial aid and most scholarships for study abroad during the semester, year or summer. Financing an international experience can be a real challenge; however there are many resources available, including scholarships and financial aid. Cal State Fullerton's financial specialist, Jessica Schutte, can help you navigate the sometimes complicated process of financing a study abroad experience. Thousands of students have been able to pay for study abroad, and with a little persistence, you probably can too!

When should I start planning my study abroad experience?
The earlier you start planning the better. This gives you that much more time to make sure that all your degree requirements are in order, and that you've looked at all the options open to you. Also, after all that planning, the actual experience will be that much better.

Can I study abroad without adding an additional semester to my degree?
YES! This question is on the minds of many students when they start to consider studying abroad. The key, as always, is to remain in close contact with our office and your academic advisors. If you do that, there is no reason that studying abroad needs to add additional semesters to you degree.

Do I need to be fluent in a foreign language to study abroad?
NO! While many programs require knowledge of a foreign language, many provide courses in English and the chance to study the local language. At the same time, if you are studying a foreign language at CSUF, we can help you find a program that offers a language-immersion course that will help you improve your language abilities and understanding of the local culture.

Where can I study overseas?
Students can choose from study abroad options worldwide in Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, Canada, Mexico and Australia.

What can I study overseas?
Students may select courses in their major, minor, and/or choose to take General Education and electives.

Will the classes I take abroad transfer to CSUF?
YES! Students complete a form with academic chairpersons before departing overseas to ensure courses and credits will transfer back to Cal State Fullerton. Grades earned during study abroad are posted onto the transcript and calculated in the GPA.

Can I graduate abroad?
YES! Cal State Fullerton students can graduate at the completion of their study abroad program. If you plan on graduating at the end of your study abroad program, you should stay in very close contact with your academic advisors and our office, to make sure that all your graduation requirements will be fulfilled. You must officially declare your intent to graduate to the Cal State Fullerton Registrar's Office following their established procedure and timeline.

When can I study abroad?
Students are recommended to study overseas during their junior or senior year, although second semester freshman and sophomores may also participate. You may study abroad in your final year or semester. Graduate students can study abroad also.

Where will I live overseas?
Each study abroad program offers students living accommodations which may include dormitory housing, apartments, home stay, or bed & breakfasts.

How many Cal State Fullerton students study abroad every year?
Each year, more than 200 Cal State Fullerton students study abroad and receive academic credit on their CSUF transcript.

Can I speak with a CSUF student who has studied abroad?
YES, of course! Our Peer Advisors are students who have expressed a willingness to answer questions about their study abroad experiences. Please e-mail the SAO to request a peer advisor.

How do I get started planning?
Review the programs and exchanges described on these web-pages, and attend a mandatory Information Session. Following the information session you can schedule an appointment to meet with the Study Abroad Advisor to continue planning for study abroad.

In general, what are the deadlines for applications & scholarships?
You should plan to have your applications complete and returned to the Study Abroad Office by October 1 or March 1 of the semester before you want to be away.

Did we answer your question?
You are always welcome to speak with the Study Abroad Advisor who may help to answer your questions in more detail. You can visit our office in University Hall 244, or call (714) 278-4594, or email us at sabroad@fullerton.edu with other questions you may have.