Paying for Study Abroad

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With the right planning, studying abroad can be as affordable as studying at CI (and sometimes, even cheaper). Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about students curious to know how they can afford to study abroad.

How much does it cost to study abroad?

If you are studying abroad through a CSUIP or Exchange program, CSUCI tuition is the same abroad as it is at CSUCI. Other costs vary depending on the program and the cost of living in the host country. Each program has it's own budget sheet so you can compare the cost to that of CSUCI. See the budgets under the "Program Costs" tab for each program. 

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How does the cost of study abroad compare to the cost of attending CI?

There are over 14 countries that have study abroad programs where the cost is CHEAPER than the cost of attendance at CI. Compare the cost of the study abroad program (yearlong only) to the estimated cost of attendance at CI.

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Can I use financial aid to study abroad?

Absolutely! All forms of financial aid (except federal work study) can be applied to your study abroad experience through CSUIP or Exchange including federal Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, State University Grants, Educational Opportunity Program Grants, Cal Grants, federal student loans, and Parent PLUS loans. For the types of aid available to you, visit the Financial Aid Office.

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Do I have to complete the FAFSA if I am planning on studying abroad?

Yes! We encourage all students who are planning on studying abroad to complete their FAFSA well before the FAFSA deadline to be able to apply any and all financial aid to study abroad.

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What scholarships are available to study abroad students?

There are lots of scholarships for students looking to study abroad, especially for students traditionally underrepresented in study abroad. Download a list of study abroad scholarships (PDF, 85KB) by category, including helpful study abroad scholarship search engines.

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Outside of financial aid and scholarships, what are other ways to fund study abroad?

Personal savings, cash earned from a job, personal loans, family support (if possible) are other ways to help pay for study abroad. Don't be afraid to get creative! For instance, garage sales or crowdfunding could be other areas worth exploring.

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What are some "out-of-pocket" expenses that I should be aware of when thinking about budgeting for study abroad?

Outside of tuition and fees, student should plan to pay for flights, visa-related expenses (if applicable), housing, meals, mandatory insurance, public transportation, and other personal expenses. The more effectively you prepare for these expenses ahead of time, the more seamless your experience will be upon acceptance and while abroad.

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What other advice do you have for students budgeting for study abroad?

If you are planning on using financial aid to fund study abroad, be aware that financial aid may not disburse until 1-2 months after you are already abroad. Additionally, certain expenses (ie: visa fees, deposits, flights) will incur prior to aid being disbursed. Plan to cover these pre-trip expenses and at least 1-2 months worth of living expenses while abroad from sources outside of financial aid.

Also, certain visa applications require students to submit proof of financial support while abroad. Plan for this possibility. Finally, make sure to consider exchange rates while budgeting for your time abroad.

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If I receive a fee waiver now, can I still apply the fee waiver to a study abroad experience?

Fee waivers including some Veterans Fee Waivers and CSU Dependent Tuition Waiver may be applied to a CSUCI-sanctioned study abroad experience. Please contact the Veterans Affairs Office and/or Financial Aid Office for specific guidance. 

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Resources for Financing Study Abroad

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