Study Abroad Overview

Study abroad is a program where SDSU students may attend a university in another country for one semester, and, for some programs, an academic year. 

In most cases, SDSU has a cooperative agreement with the university abroad that ensures that the classes you take are transferable to your SDSU permanent academic record.

You maintain matriculated enrollment status at SDSU while attending a college abroad.

Most of these programs require that you pay SDSU full-time registration fees for each semester abroad.

 Qualifying for Study Abroad Financial Aid

The International Student Center (ISC) can help you choose a study abroad program that is eligible for financial aid consideration.   Eligibility for most study abroad programs is limited to—

• an undergraduate student not having attended more than two semesters abroad
• a graduate student not having attended more than one semester abroad in a graduate course of study

 Applying for Study Abroad Financial Aid

To receive financial aid for studying abroad programs, apply in the same way as for on-campus study. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for all aid programs, including loans (see Step 1 - Applying for Aid).

We encourage you to apply early in the calendar year, as soon after January 1 as possible.

 Extra Costs of Study Abroad

For most programs, your eligibility is based on SDSU's standard cost of attendance for living off campus.

However, you may be able to increase the amount of funds you receive.

• Increase loan eligibility: You may be qualified for increased loan eligibility for higher than expected costs, IF you have not been awarded the maximum for the year. 
  • The ISC program coordinator must provide the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships (OFAS) with documented proof for the extra costs.
• Higher need-based aid: If your income decreased from the past tax year, because you are unable to work while studying abroad, the OFAS may be able to increase your need-based aid, or increase the amount of aid you have already been awarded.
  • Submit a completed Students Request for Review form to the OFAS.

 Disbursement of Financial Aid Funds While Studying Abroad

After the SDSU semester begins and University Disbursements has received confirmation of your enrollment from the school you are attending abroad, your aid will be released.  (See Step Five - Disbursements - Releasing Financial Aid Funds)

Your SDSU registration fees will be deducted and the remainder* will be disbursed to you by direct deposit or mail.
*Listed as a "refund" on your Student Account Services student statement.

If you participate in the CSU International Program, your money will be forwarded to the CSU Chancellor's Office to cover your costs. Any remaining funds will be released to you from University Disbursements.