Explore How Financial Aid Can Help You Study Abroad
Studying abroad can be an exciting way to earn credits toward your CSUSB degree while living and learning in another country. Financial aid may also help you pay for your experience.
If you're thinking about studying abroad, start planning early. The financial aid you can use will depend on the program you choose, how long you'll be abroad, how many units you take and the types of financial aid you qualify for.
Can I Use Financial Aid to Study Abroad?
In many cases, yes. You may be able to use some of your financial aid for an eligible study abroad program.
What you can use depends on your program:
- Federal financial aid, including the Federal Pell Grant and Direct Student Loans, may be available for eligible semester programs.
- State financial aid, such as the State University Grant (SUG) and Cal Grant, may be available for programs that qualify for California resident credit.
- Financial aid for summer study abroad programs is limited, but some programs may qualify.
- Federal Work-Study cannot be used for study abroad.
The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships will review the program you choose and determine which financial aid you can use. Your financial aid may need to be adjusted based on your study abroad costs.
Plan Ahead for When You'll Receive Your Financial Aid
If your study abroad program is less than five weeks long, it may not qualify for financial aid — even if you're taking several units.
There's another important reason to plan ahead: your financial aid may not arrive before your study abroad payment is due or your program begins.
If that happens, you'll need another way to pay those costs until your financial aid becomes available.
Financial Aid You May Be Able to Use
The financial aid available to you will depend on your eligibility, how many units you take and whether you're meeting academic progress requirements.
Depending on your eligibility and study abroad program, you may be able to use:
- Federal Pell Grant
- Cal Grant
- Middle Class Scholarship
- Federal Direct Student Loans
- State University Grant
Scholarships can also help you pay for studying abroad. Opportunities may include:
Private student loans may be another way to help cover your costs.
If you're considering a private loan:
- Research lenders and choose the one you want to borrow from.
- Contact the lender to apply for the loan.
- Check with the lender to make sure they have sent the required loan information to the CSUSB Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
How Much Will Studying Abroad Cost?
Every study abroad program is different, so look at all of the costs before deciding which program is right for you.
Your expenses may include:
- Tuition and fees
- Housing and everyday living expenses
- Airfare and other travel
- Passport and visa fees
- Transportation while you're abroad
- Books and course materials
- Supplies and equipment
- Phone and internet
- Personal expenses
Once you know what your program will cost, compare that amount with the financial aid you expect to receive. You'll need a plan for any expenses your financial aid won't cover.
Find a Study Abroad Program
Ready to explore your options? Visit CSUSB Education Abroad to find CSUSB-supported study abroad programs.
You can also visit the Education Abroad Office in CGI-301 or schedule an in-person or virtual appointment with a study abroad coordinator.
Schedule an Education Abroad Advising Appointment
Questions About Using Financial Aid?
Before choosing a study abroad program, talk with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships so you know which financial aid you can use, how much you may receive and when you can expect to receive it.
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