Education Abroad
Semester/Year-long programs
Congratulations on starting your journey!
The application process is not difficult, but it does take time and careful planning. It is important that you follow all steps carefully, and that you start planning with plenty of time to complete the process.
How to apply for a semester/year-long program: Step by step guide
Pre-acceptance phase
- Research your options from the list below and pick your top 3 countries/programs.
- Look up possible courses, application requirements and application deadlines.
- Research your scholarship options.
The workshops will be held virtually. Join the Education Abroad group in MyRaft to view Education Abroad 101 dates and registration links.
- Research courses at host university/program that could potentially fulfill your GE, GE electives, major, major electives, minor, and/or minor elective requirements.
- Make sure that host university/program offers enough courses for you to take at least 12 CSUMB credits per semester.
Book a virtual appointment with the education abroad advisor through MyRaft.
- Talk to your Academic Advisor about your top 3 university/program options, academic requirements that could be completed abroad, your graduation plan, etc.
- Get your Education Abroad Academic Approval Form signed by your Academic Advisor and the Education Abroad Advisor. Then submit the original form to the Registrar's Office. A copy of the form must also be uploaded to the "Pre-acceptance" section of the Education Abroad Application (in Horizons). GE Course Approval Steps by the University College Dean.
- Once approved by the appropriate major advisor and/or GE representative, this worksheet will facilitate the transfer of course credit toward your major, minor and GE requirements.
- NOTE: Remember that studying abroad may affect your graduation date. It may take anywhere from 2-6 months for CSUMB to receive your official transcript. This may result in the need to delay your graduation to a future term.
- Additionally, students may not continue to enroll in coursework towards their undergraduate degree beyond their graduation date, including study abroad. For example, a student who applied for spring graduation may not complete a study abroad course in the summer as part of their undergraduate degree. Additional enrollment options may be available.
- Did you know you can access the study abroad app from your dashboard? Just search for "Study Abroad" in the list of More Apps!
- Complete and submit the pre-acceptance section of the Education Abroad Application through the Horizons application system.
- Make sure your financial aid is in order, apply for scholarships, and budget for your time abroad.
- Research flight options (don't buy until you are fully admitted to the program).
- Apply or renew your passport (must be valid at least 6 months past your return to the U.S.)
- How to get your unofficial transcripts
Post-acceptance phase
- Complete and submit application to exchange partner university or CSUMB affiliate program.
- The sooner you complete your application, the sooner it can be processed and then you will receive the necessary documents for your visa application (if applicable), housing, etc.
- Complete and submit application to exchange partner university or CSUMB affiliate program.
- Upload flight information to Education Abroad post-acceptance application.
- Confirm participation in Education Abroad program.
- Attend the mandatory pre-departure orientation.
- Summer/Fall orientations are typically held in April.
- Winter/Spring orientations are typically held in December.
- Summer/Fall orientations are typically held in April.
- Attend the mandatory pre-departure orientation.