Study Abroad

Study abroad can be one of the most personally enriching and academically rewarding experiences a student can have. The opportunity to study in another country for a summer, semester, or academic year is open to all CSU San Marcos students through a wide range of programs.

The Office of Global Education maintains an up-to-date information center on study abroad opportunities that is open to all students. You can find the program that suits your needs, get information about financial aid, learn about credit transfer, and make direct contact with the school or center you want to attend.

A wide variety of study abroad opportunities are available to CSU San Marcos students. The Study Abroad Advisor can assist you in finding the program right for you, but you should take time to familiarize yourself with the options.

Some basic questions you might ask yourself are:

• Why do I want to study abroad?  Is my main purpose language and culture study or am I primarily interested in pursuing my major?
• Where do I want to study?
• What type of study center am I looking for?  Do I want to enroll directly in a foreign university or would I be more comfortable enrolled in a center for international students?
• Am I secure enough to live on my own abroad, or am I looking for a more protected environment?
• How long do I want to study abroad?  Am I looking for a summer or intersession program, or do I want to stay abroad for a semester or an academic year?
• How can I use financial aid to support study abroad?

Answering these questions will help you narrow the choices and permit you to focus on programs best suited to your needs. Don't forget that before you enroll in any program, you should go through the study abroad credit approval process. 

To determine the best location for your academic focus, see our Study Abroad by Location and Major Grid.

For an overview of all Study Abroad Opportunities at CSUSM, check out our powerpoint presentation!