Start exploring the world!
CSUSM students are fortunate to be able to learn and live in Southern California, with the mountains, deserts, and beaches all within reach. But that doesn't mean there's not a whole world out there waiting to be discovered! Study abroad can be one of the most personally enriching and academically rewarding experiences of your undergraduate years. CSUSM offers all students the opportunity to study in another country for a January, summer, semester, or academic year through a wide range of programs.
CSUSM's study abroad team maintains an up-to-date information center on the wide variety of study abroad opportunities that are open to all CSUSM students. You can find program options that suit your needs, get information about financial aid, learn about credit transfer, and make direct contact with the school or center you want to attend all in one place. The study abroad advisors there provide an invaluable resource, and can help you find the program that's right for you.
The first step to studying abroad is attending an info session! You can find one online:
More Information
- STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS
Study Abroad Programs
Click the button below to learn more about the following study abroad programs:
- January programs
- Summer programs
- Exchange programs
- CSU International programs (Semester & Academic Year)
- International Student Exchange Program (ISEP)
- Outside Programs
- Student Fulbright program
- THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE STUDYING ABROAD
Things to Consider Before Studying Abroad
If you're thinking about spending time learning overseas, definitely consider these questions:
- Why do you want to study abroad and what kind of experience are you hoping to have?
- Do you want to study in an English speaking country or study in English in a country where English is not spoken?
- Do you want to learn about language and culture or do you primarily want to pursue your major/minor?
- How long do you want to study abroad and what is within your budget?
- What type of academic experience would work for you? Would you prefer a short-term
faculty led program, a semester exchange experience, or rather enroll directly at
a foreign university?
- Would you be comfortable living abroad on your own, or would you prefer a more structured environment?
- How will financial aid support your study abroad? Are there other resources such as scholarships you could find to fund your travel?
- And of course… where do you want to go and is it practical to find classes there for your major/minor?
Thinking about these questions can help you narrow down the array of options, letting you focus on programs that are the best fit for you.
Want to see the best study abroad locations for your academic interests? Check out our Study Abroad by Location and Major Grid.
And before you start packing—don't forget that prior to enrolling in any program, you should go through the Study Abroad credit approval process to ensure that overseas classes will meet your degree requirements at CSUSM.
If you're stuck, please make plans to attend a Study Abroad Info Session and after research, an appointment with a Study Abroad Advisor.
- HOW TO STUDY ABROAD
How to Study Abroad
Click the button below to view checklists based on the type of program you're considering. These will walk you through the entire process, from attending an info session to getting on the plane.
- FINANCIAL AID
Financial Aid
Learn more about scholarship opportunities and other financial aid for studying abroad by clicking the button below.
- STUDY ABROAD FAQ
Study Abroad FAQ
Click the button below to see the most frequently asked questions about studying abroad.
- TRAVEL & OTHER RESOURCES
Travel and Other Resources
Learn more about passport services, travel, emergencies abroad and other resources for an array of student travelers by clicking the button below.
- CREDIT APPROVAL
Credit Approval
Click the button below to learn more about how you earn and transfer credits while studying abroad.
- CONTACT STUDY ABROAD
Contact Study Abroad
Learn more about the first steps of studying abroad (hint, attending an info session is #1!), and view our office hours by clicking the button below.
Take classes in another country to discover your discipline from a new perspective
Studying abroad is not only a time for exploring a new culture, making new friends, and expanding your horizons—but it's also a meaningful way to earn credits toward your CSUSM degree
CSUSM offers a wide array of study abroad options, ranging from a few weeks to a full academic year
CSUSM has exchange agreements with universities around the world, allowing you to pay your same tuition and use your financial aid while making degree progress
[Studying abroad] was a life changing experience. I gained a different perspective of the world. I was able to witness a glimpse of how massive this world really is and the beautiful cultures coexisting within it. I learned that traveling is a new passion of mine. Japan specifically will hold a special place in my heart because it was the first time I’ve ever been that far from home. I remember my first steps into the Japanese airport, I had no idea what I had gotten myself into. I never studied the language, I didn’t understand their transportation, I was completely alone. However, with time I learned and fell in love with the Japanese culture and lifestyle, I consider Japan as my second home. I am so thankful for the friends I’ve made, and the memories I’ve created.
Hi, my name is Tiffany Gabbard and I am the mischief maker Study Abroad Coordinator in Global Education. Having studied in Italy and England, I hope my students experience the vibrant beauty of other cultures for themselves. I love our students and sending them away on study adventures of a lifetime. Do yourself a favor, go away. You won't regret it!
Sure, you can travel the world and visit a country for a few days to see all the tourist destinations…But there is nothing like actually going to another country, living there, going to school there and establishing great friendships. Being able to study in South Korea was very humbling. Not only did I meet local people, but because I also lived in the International Dorms, I met people from all over the world. Getting to know my classmates (and eventual friends) really broadened my mind. It really took me out of my American bubble and let me see and understand how other people view the world. Now I have friends not only in Korea, but all over the world too. And to think, I met them all while we were studying in Korea together. That is one of my fondest memories that I will treasure forever.