 Steps for Studying Abroad
- Explore program options. Attend an information session, visit the Center for International Education office, or read about our programs on this website. Go to the host university's website to get a feel for the location (urban/suburban) and academics (classes in English, with locals, etc.) of the university.
- Determine which program best suits you in regards to your major, timing, and interests. Be sure to speak with family, friends, and professors.
- Call the CIE to make an appointment with our Exchange Program Advisor and come prepared with questions!
- Make a list of classes you would likely take while abroad (see program for specific courses). Talk to your academic advisor to see which classes could apply to your major/minor/elective.
- Review the program costs. If you receive Financial Aid speak with a financial aid counselor. Bring a brochure and cost estimates with you.
- Fill out the appropriate application for your desired program. Be aware of deadlines and feel free to ask our Exchange Program Advisor questions!!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why study abroad?
A: Studying abroad is an opportunity for you to learn about a country/region/culture in depth. You can improve your language and intercultural skills. Surprisingly, you will not only learn about those around you, but you will learn about yourself, your belief system, and your place in today's world.
Read what CSUEB students are saying about study abroad! (link opens in new window)
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Q: What programs can I go on?
1) CSU International Programs (IP): one academic year
2) Bi-lateral Exchange Programs: Semester/ Quarter Programs
3) National Student Exchange (NSE): Semester/ Quarter/ Year Programs
4) ISEP (Semester/Year Progams)
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Q: Will I get credit?
A: Yes! Students are considered still enrolled at CSUEB and receive resident credit. Speak with your academic advisor during the application process to see how your credits will apply towards your degree- as elective, GE, major, or minor credits. Most majors can be accommodated. Some students elect to declare a minor or double major if they are not able to apply study abroad credits towards their first major.
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Q: Can I afford to study abroad?
A: You will be paying fees comparable to CSUEB fees, plus housing, meals transportation, personal expenses. Living costs vary from country to country.
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Q: Can I use financial aid?
A: Yes! If you qualify for financial aid, you may apply it (except for work study) to CSUEB study abroad programs.
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Q: Are there any study abroad scholarships?
A: Yes! There a number of study abroad scholarships available. See the Finances section on this website.
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Q: Why are so many programs an academic year?
A: An academic year offers the opportunity for the fullest possible adaptation and integration. You will invest so much time and effort the first semester into learning about your surroundings and the culture, why leave before you can reap the benefits in the second semester?
The CSUEB Bilateral Programs and ISEP offer students the opportunity to go abroad for less than one academic year.
The National Student Exchange (NSE) allows students to go abroad for one quarter, one semester, or a full academic year.
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Q: Do you have any summer programs?
A: ISEP offers limited summer programs. For all other summer programs, students can look at our Resource Library for more information. To get credits transferred, the student will need to speak with the Admissions office/Enrollment Services and his/her academic department. Non-CSUEB Programs are considered non-approved programs and financial aid cannot transfer.
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Q: Can I study abroad as a graduate student?
A: Currently, the only program specifically for graduate students is the Chambery Summer Session Program for MBA Students. However, it may be possible for graduate students to participate in our other study abroad programs. Students should examine program options carefully and speak with their academic department to see if and how many study abroad courses would apply to their Master's program. The student should also make an appointment with the Exchange Programs Advisor.
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Q: Do I need to know a foreign language?
A: Not all programs require prior language study. For example, programs in Scandinavia and Korea offer coursework in English. Check with the program literature for details.
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Q: My major is XXX. Where can I go?
A: All majors are welcome. For ISEP, you can search by major online. For CSU IP: look at the IP Bulletin (link opens in new window) under each Country Description to see which country is most appropriate for your major. For Bi-lateral programs: look at individual countries brochures. Business and Economics Majors are encouraged to look at the France, Finland, and Germany programs. For NSE: look at www.nse.org (link opens in new window) or NSE Directory. The CIE also has a handout "Where can I study with my major" (PDF, 38k, opens in new window).
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