FAQs

For Prospective Students

Is it expensive to study abroad?

That depends. Studying abroad can be as inexpensive or as expensive as you make it. Factors to consider are program type, your status as an in-state or out-of-state student and the cost of living in the place where you will study. However, the single biggest factor is usually how much independent travel you do on weekends and breaks.

Can I qualify for financial aid to study abroad?

The International Student Center (ISC) can assist you in choosing a study abroad program that is eligible for financial aid consideration. You can contact the ISC at: studyabroad@sdsu.edu or call 619-594-1982. For most of these study abroad programs, you are eligible to be considered for financial aid for no more than one academic year as an undergraduate student and no more than one semester as a graduate student. ISC will provide you with references to many study abroad programs.

How do I use my financial aid for my study abroad program? 

Applying for financial aid for studying abroad is the same as applying for aid as a regular student. You must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as indicated on the SDSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships website. By filing the FAFSA, you are applying for federal grants and student loans. We encourage you to apply early in the calendar year for assistance in the upcoming academic year. 

Do I get extra financial aid to assist with study abroad costs?

For most programs, your eligibility is based on SDSU's standard cost of attendance for living in off-campus housing. In some circumstances, the ISC program coordinator can provide the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships with documented proof of higher expected costs for your specific program abroad. This could possibly increase your loan eligibility if you weren't originally awarded your yearly maximum. If your income will decrease from the past tax year due to not being able to work while studying abroad, you may file a Students Request for Review with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. We will consider you for higher need based aid or possibly increase the amount of aid you've already been awarded.

Where can I get more information about financial aid and scholarships?

For a complete list of scholarships and financial aid options, visit the Accepted Students Finances page.

Will my classes transfer back to SDSU?

Yes. You will receive SDSU credits and grades for some classes; you will receive only SDSU credits for others. You should begin working with an academic advisor and an Education Abroad Advisor well in advance of going abroad to make this go smoothly.

If I study abroad will I still graduate on time?

You should. We work hard to make sure that taking part in one of our programs will not delay your graduation. With reasonable planning, any SDSU student can have a great international experience and still graduate on time.

Am I academically eligible to study abroad?

Students are considered academically eligible to study abroad if they have the GPA required for the program (as well as any program-specific prerequisite classes), favorable references, and are in good academic standing. Students on academic probation will be considered on a case-by-case basis and must abide by all relevant university policies.

Do I have to speak a foreign language to study abroad?

Not usually. Over half of our programs allow you to take courses in English, either in English-speaking countries or in specially-designed programs in other countries. However, SDSU does offer many options for students who wish to take some or all of their courses in another language.

Can I study a foreign language while abroad?

Yes! study abroad is a great time to learn a new language or become more fluent in one you are already studying. There are language intensive programs available for interested students.

How long can I study abroad?

With over 190 programs, SDSU has options as short as a week or as long as a year. We have many programs that last for six or eight weeks in the summer and many semester programs, too. Note that a very high percentage of study abroad participants report that they wish they had gone for a longer term!

Where will I live?

Housing options vary by program. Typically students choose between dormitories, shared apartments or home stays with local families.

Can I work while I'm abroad?

This depends on the flexibility of your visa. Check with the consulate of your host country to be sure.