Your  Account:

Student Travel Resources

Student Travel Resources are Now Available!

Students are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and applications will be supported while funding is available.

Please keep in mind that submitting an application does not guarantee funding. Any funds awarded are non-transferable and must be used for the approved travel. Reimbursements will be based on actual, approved expenses incurred, up to the amount awarded.

We’re happy to help support student travel and encourage you to explore the resources available!

Student Travel Resources

The Office of Graduate Studies and Research (OGSR) provides funding to support students presenting research or creative work completed at CSUSM.

Eligible students may receive $50 to $500 toward allowable presentation or travel-related expenses.

Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis based until funds are exhausted.

  • Eligibility Criteria
    • Travel Dates: August through May of the current academic year. 
    • CSUSM Student travelers must be enrolled and in good standing both at the time of applying for funds and during their travel.
    • CSU Travel Policy and CSUSM Procedures must be followed.
    • Applications should be submitted 2 weeks before travel.
    • Incomplete applications will not be sent on for review.
    • Both individual and group projects are eligible for funding. 
    • Funding is limited:
      • Once per undergraduate career
      • Once per graduate career
  • How to Apply
    • Step 1: Download the Application Guideline.
      • Obtain signatures from your Graduate Coordinator or Faculty Advisor.
    • Step 2: Complete the Air_No-Car Transportation Forms through the  workflow system.
      • Need help? Watch Tutorial
      • If under 18: include a parent/guardian release signature. 
    • Step 3: Submit the Student Travel Application Form and upload all required documents from Step 1 & Step 2.
    • Other: If you have not received confirmation of your presentation acceptance within the two (2) week deadline, you may still apply.
      • Submit your application along with a brief statement indicating that you have applied to present and are awaiting a decision.
      • Any funding granted may be contingent upon proof of acceptance to present.
  • Funding Process

    Applications are reviewed in the order received, and funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until available funds are exhausted. Award amounts may take into consideration other funding available to the traveler.

    If approved, the student and faculty advisor will receive an email notification and an award letter from the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research outlining the amount awarded.

    Funding is provided as a reimbursement for allowable expenses after approved travel is completed and cannot exceed the amount awarded. 

  • Registration and Reimbursement

    Reimbursement is based on actual, allowable travel expenses and cannot exceed the amount awarded.

    CSUSM Travel Guideline 

    Conference Registration
    Conference registration is paid in advance using a CSUSM Universal Card rather than reimbursed after travel. Contact your college travel coordinator, administrative coordinator, or OGSR for assistance with registration.

    After Travel
    Most travel reimbursements will be processed through your college travel coordinator. As soon as possible after your trip, work with your college contact to provide the materials needed to complete your expense report:

    • Conference Agenda: A copy of the conference agenda.

    • Receipts: Receipts for expenses being reimbursed. 

    • Proof of Attendance: A photo of your name badge or other photo confirming attendance.

    • Mileage: If claiming mileage, provide your Driving Safely, Driving Smarter certificate. Driving Safely, Driving Smarter > log in > search: Driving Safely, Driving Smarter.

    • Other Funding: Let your travel coordinator know about any additional funding received for the trip.

    • Meals: Reimbursed for actuals up to an amount sent annually in lieu of per diem. Receipts are required if an expense is over $75.00.

    A Quick Note About Timing
    All reimbursements must be completed before the end of the fiscal year. Please submit your materials as soon as possible after travel to allow adequate time for processing.  


Other Resources

Contact Information

  • Office of Graduate Studies and Research