Planning Checklist

• Read the Study Abroad website…thoroughly!
  You can find ALL the information you need to know about Studying Abroad at CSUF.
• Determine your goals
  What aspects of study abroad are important to you--courses, location, cultural experiences, learning a language, travel?
• Research & Choose a program
  After you have checked out the abundance of programs available to CSUF students, choose one (and no more than two) to submit an application.
• Financial Aid for Study Abroad
  If you currently receive financial aid, you simply take it with you when you study abroad. If you do not receive financial aid now, we encourage you to apply for financial aid for your study abroad program if your estimated expenses will be higher than they would be if you stayed at Fullerton.
• Apply for a passport
  Even if you are just considering study abroad; remember that it can take six to eight weeks to process a passport. Every study abroad program requires a valid passport. If this is your first passport, the fee is $97 ($67 check or money order payable to the US Department of State and a $30 check or money order payable to the office you apply at). Renewing a passport costs $67 ($67 check or money order payable to US Department of State).
  You can have your passport application expedited for $60 plus the cost of overnight delivery. Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay abroad.
  More detailed information on how to get a passport and passport applications is available through the State Department.
  Applicants must bring their completed application, photos, required documents, and form of payment to one of many acceptance offices, which can be found using the State Department's passport acceptance facility search page.
• Visas
  Many governments require a visa for entry into their country. If you are enrolled in a CSU International Program or Cal State Fullerton Exchange, you will receive more information in the program handbook or at orientation. For Non-CSUF programs, check with the program sponsor for visa instructions.
  You can also find current visa information on the US State Department website or by contacting the consulate or embassy of your host country. Most travel agencies can provide visa services, but please be aware there is usually a fee for these services.
• ID Cards
  International Student Identity Cards available through STA Travel are recommended and can provide basic international health and baggage insurance as well as discounts for airfare, hotels, restaurants, museums, theatres, and more.
• Meet with your major advisor(s)
  Talk to your advisor(s) about the academic aspects of your program. Figure out which requirements you still need and how study abroad will meet your academic goals.
• Visit the Study Abroad Advisor
  If you have any questions, schedule an appointment by calling 278-2787, or stop by during walk-in hours.
• Complete all paperwork
  Regardless of which program you are accepted to (CSUF or Non-CSUF), do not fail to complete ALL necessary paperwork. All required forms MUST be submitted by the published deadline.
• Complete the required online pre-departure orientation
  SAO requires that ALL study abroad participants complete the on-line pre-departure orientation. The orientation can becompleted ANYTIME of day. NO EXCUSES will be accepted.
• Start preparing for your study abroad program
  Follow the pre-departure checklist and keep all necessary forms and paperwork in a special study abroad folder; enjoy planning for your trip.

MORE INFORMATION

Additional information and resources are available in the Study Abroad Office (UH-244) and throughout this website. If you have a question, email the SAO at sabroad@fullerton.edu or call (714) 278-4594.

Contact Information »

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