Gain A Competitive Edge
Acquire the international experience you'll need to compete in the job market. Study abroad and stand apart from the rest.
Enhance Your Education
Stay on track and take courses in your major or supplement your degree. Learn another language or earn a minor that will enhance your university degree.
It's More Affordable Than You Think
IP is the most affordable study abroad option available to CSU students. Why stay home when you can earn CSU credit overseas for about the same amount of money?
Financial Aid applies, and scholarships are available.
International Programs (IP) is the systemwide study abroad program of the CSU and provides students with international academic opportunities in the framework of a California State University degree program. IP is affiliated with over 50 distinguished universities and other institutions of higher education in 19 countries. Currently in its 47th year of continuous operation, the academic excellence of IP has been recognized by respected organizations such as the Council on Learning and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. With a special focus on academic year studies, IP is a unique part of the spectrum of study abroad opportunities available to CSU students. IP's guiding principle is that students should be "immersed" in the academic and living environments of their host countries. Accordingly, all instruction is offered by recognized host universities or by distinguished host country faculty.
Eligibility requirements for each program are provided in the country flyers. Most programs require a 2.75 GPA while others require a 3.0. In a few cases, students who do not meet the GPA requirement can be considered.
Applicants must be enrolled in a CSU campus or be eligible to transfer from a California community college. For most programs, applicants must have upper-division standing status or classified graduate status. Some programs may be more competitive than others. When there are more applicants than places available, the best qualified are selected.
You may be surprised to learn that any financial aid you qualify for on your home campus (except work study) can be applied to your year abroad with IP. Every year nearly three-fourths of all IP students received student aid in the form of grants, loans, or scholarships. Eligibility may differ for graduate and post baccalaureate students. You should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after January 1. The application is now available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Also see the IP Financing brochure (.pdf).
