Financial Considerations

Studying abroad often does not cost as much as you might think, but like any educational investment, it requires planning and careful comparison. The international opportunities available to Cal State Fullerton students vary widely in cost, depending on the type of program, inclusions in the program (excursions, meal stipends, housing, etc.), length of stay, and destination. When considering cost, it is important to remember a few things:

• Many scholarships are available. Search this website and check out the materials in the Study Abroad Library.
• Most financial aid may be applied to study abroad.
• The costs of some programs are comparable to what you would pay to study and live here on campus. Make sure you compare all costs.
• The many benefits—academic, professional, and personal—of your international experience will be long lasting. Study Abroad in your Major advising sheets list academic and career benefits for students headed in many directions.

If cost is a major factor, talk to the Study Abroad Advisor; explore less expensive countries or cities, different program types, or shorter programs. And remember, CSU International Programs and CSUF Exchange Programs are among the most affordable opportunities.

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How Much Will It Cost?

This is one of the first questions many students (and many parents) ask. Completing a Study Abroad Cost Worksheet is a useful way to estimate the total cost of a program including: program fees, travel costs, room & board, books & supplies, and personal expenses.

Once you have investigated the total cost of your study abroad program, you may want to compare it with the total cost of attendance for a semester or year at CSUF. The cost of attending Cal State Fullerton (by residency status) can be found on the Office of Student Financial Services website.

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Working with the CSUF Financial Aid Office

If you qualify for Federal financial aid, you can apply your award to any study abroad program. If you already receive aid, you may qualify for additional funding to offset the extra costs sometimes associated with study abroad.

1. If you DO NOT receive financial aid now, we encourage you to apply for financial aid for your study abroad program. Your estimated total cost of attendance will be higher than if you studied on campus at CSUF.

For more information and a financial aid application, visit the Office of Financial Aid, UH-177.

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Scholarships

The Study Abroad Office provides some need-based travel awards for study abroad. Certain scholarships are available for individual CSU International Programs.  In addition, many organizations offer their own scholarships. Please visit the scholarships page for more information.

The University of Minnesota maintains a searchable online Study Abroad Scholarship Database. Check it out.

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Where to Learn More

You can also learn more about study abroad scholarships by checking out the Financial Resources & Scholarships page on this website.

Contact Information »

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