California State University Channel Islands’ Semester at CI program allows international students to enroll in regular university credit classes on a “space-available” basis, subject to the approval of the instructor and the Academic Affairs department. The program is sometimes known as a "Freemover" program.
Eligible international students will be issued an I-20 immigration form which allows students to apply for an F1 student visa.
We are now accepting new international undergraduate students for the Fall and Spring semesters.
Important Dates
Fall 2026 Semester
- Class Schedule Available: April 2, 2026
- Application Deadline: July 1, 2026*
- Day to Arrive in Camarillo: August 19, 2026
- International Orientation: August 20, 2026
- Classes Start: August 24, 2026
- Final Examination week (end of the semester) - December 7-12, 2026
Spring 2027 Semester
- Class Schedule Available: November 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2026*
- Day to Arrive in Camarillo: January 19, 2027
- International Orientation: January 20, 2027
- Classes Start: January 25, 2027
- Final Examination Week (end of the semester): May 17-21, 2027
* If you are a student already studying in the USA on an F-1 visa and looking to transfer, please contact us about a possible late application.
Application Process
Please submit the following to the International Programs office:
- Email us at intl.ext@csuci.edu
- Describe the type of classes you would like to take (example, Business, Psychology, etc.)
- The online application link will be emailed to the student.
- There is a $250 application fee required to be paid after determined the student is eligible to attend.
Required Documents
- Bank Statement – you must show a minimum of $15,500.00 for one semester ($31,000 if attending two semesters)
- English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL-internet based score61,IELTS6.0,iTEP5orDAADB or better,EikenPre-1,PTE46,Duolingo Academic Test 95). Some students qualify for a waiver of the English exam, email for more information.
- Passport Copy
- Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
Tuition and Fees
- $6,350 for 12 units - due the week before the semester starts
- Fees and dates are subject to change without notice. $305 for each additional units beyond 12 units (Maximum of 18 units allowed each semester. Lab/classroom fees as assigned.
- Please note that specific classes you choose may have a nominal class related fee (e.g. lab fee, art supplies fee), if you enroll in these classes you are required to pay the fee related to the specific class.
- $15 fee for a student ID card
International Student Health Insurance
Students must purchase health insurance coverage throughGallagher Student Health and Risk. Purchasing insurance is mandatory and we do not accept other providers.
Registration
Newly enrolled students must attend the mandatory orientation which is offered before the semester begins. Both new and continuing students must be present at the first class meeting of the semester. Student must meet any pre-requisites in order to attend a class. For more details about the class registation process, email intl.ext@csuci.edu.
Please note that Nursing (NRS), Mechatronics Engineering (EMEC) and 500+ level graduate level classes are reistricted. Classes offered through Extended University are also restricted.
For refund information visit Student Business Services.
Housing
Campus housing is available. To learn more visit Housing & Residential Education.
Semester at CI for Master Programs (Coming in 2027)
In Spring 2027 (January) we are launching a program for graduate students to study master level classes at CSUCI as a non-degree seeking student. The program is designed for students currently in a master degree program at their home university to attend CSUCI for one-two semesters for a study abroad experience.
Application Process and Requirements
- Email us at intl.ext@csuci.edu
- There is a $250 application fee required to be paid after determined the student is eligible to attend.
- Must hold a bachelor's degree in a related field of the subject you wish to study
- English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL-internet based score 80, IELTS 6.5, PTE 56, Duolingo Academic Test 105). Some students qualify for a waiver of the English exam, email for more information.
- Passport Copy
- Verification of Liquid Funds (Bank Statement) – All applicant must submit proof of available funds to support the cost to study for the duration of the program.
- Verification your home university will accept the classes for transfer to the home university.
- Approval from graduate program advisor
Tuition and Fees
- MBA (Master of Business Administration) - $6,651 (9 units)
- MS Computer Science - $6,651 (9 units)
- MS Biotechnology & Bioinformatics - $8,811 (9 units)
Students are required to enroll in face-to-face classes with a minimum of 9 units. If a student wishes to enroll in more than 9 units, there is an additional charge per unit.
Contact & Further Information
For further information or any questions, please email us at intl.ext@csuci.edu.