CSU International Programs

Systemwide Study Abroad Pathway

CSU International Programs

Study at a university abroad while earning CSU resident credit and continuing progress toward your Cal State LA degree.

One Study Abroad Option

Study Abroad Through the CSU

CSU International Programs, commonly called CSU IP, is the California State University's systemwide study abroad program. It offers Cal State LA students opportunities to study at universities and partner institutions around the world.

CSU IP can be a strong option for students seeking an immersive academic experience abroad while remaining connected to the CSU system. Program locations, fields of study, eligibility requirements, costs, and deadlines vary.

Academic Model

Earn CSU Resident Credit

Continue making progress toward your Cal State LA degree while studying abroad through a CSU systemwide program.

Experience

Study in an Immersive Setting

Spend a semester, academic year, or other eligible program period studying at a university or CSU partner institution abroad.

Planning

Build the Program Into Your Degree

Plan early for course applicability, graduation timing, costs, funding, travel, and other academic or personal considerations.

Current Programs and Requirements

Explore CSU IP Programs

Use the CSU International Programs website to compare current destinations, academic offerings, eligibility requirements, costs, program dates, and application deadlines.

Exploring the CSU IP website does not begin an application. When you are ready to apply, return to Cal State LA and begin with the local campus process below.

Your First Steps

Before You Start an Application

Start with program exploration and Cal State LA's required Study Abroad 101 course. These steps help you confirm that the program fits your academic plan, timeline, and budget before you enter the application process.

Explore CSU IP Programs

Review destinations, fields of study, eligibility, program dates, costs, and current deadlines on the CSU IP website.

Explore CSU IP Programs

Complete Study Abroad 101

Complete Cal State LA's self-paced orientation to understand program pathways, academic planning, costs, funding, responsibilities, and next steps.

Start Study Abroad 101

Confirm Academic and Financial Fit

Review how the program may affect course sequencing and graduation timing, and build a complete budget before beginning the application.

Plan Ahead

Application Deadlines

Cal State LA uses an earlier campus deadline so the Office of Study Abroad can identify applicants and complete campus requirements before the CSU IP deadline.

Spring-Start Programs
Cal State LA campus deadline September 1
CSU IP deadline September 15
Summer, Fall & Academic-Year Programs
Cal State LA campus deadline 10 business days before the CSU IP deadline
CSU IP deadline Varies by program and application cycle

Important: CSU IP now includes multiple program types and start terms, so not every program follows the same application cycle. Always confirm the current CSU IP deadline for the specific program you are considering.

How to Apply

Two Applications Are Required

Cal State LA and CSU International Programs use separate application systems. The two systems do not share records, so students must complete both applications.

Submit the Cal State LA CSU IP Campus Application

Begin with Cal State LA's local CSU IP campus application. This creates your study abroad record with Cal State LA and allows the Office of Study Abroad to track required campus steps.

Complete the Separate CSU IP Application

Immediately after submitting the Cal State LA campus application, you will receive instructions and the link for the separate CSU IP application.

Complete Requirements in Both Systems

Cal State LA uses its record for campus processes and support. CSU IP uses its record for program review and administration. Continue monitoring and completing requirements in both systems.

Start locally. When you are ready to apply, submit the Cal State LA CSU IP Campus Application first. The direct CSU IP application link is provided after the campus application is submitted.

Ready to Apply?

Begin With Cal State LA

Complete Study Abroad 101 first, then submit the Cal State LA CSU IP Campus Application. Do not begin with the external CSU IP application.

Cal State LA CSU IP Campus Application

Use the Cal State LA campus application as your entry point into the CSU IP application process.

Student Stories and Opportunities

See Where Cal State LA Can Take You

Follow Cal State LA Study Abroad on Instagram for student stories, upcoming opportunities, scholarships, deadlines, and practical guidance as you explore CSU IP and other study abroad pathways.

Compare Your Options

CSU IP Is One Study Abroad Pathway

Cal State LA students can also explore bilateral exchanges, faculty-led programs, and approved affiliate or independent programs. Compare the pathways before deciding which structure best fits your goals.

Office of Study Abroad

Questions About CSU International Programs?

The Office of Study Abroad can help you understand the Cal State LA application process, compare CSU IP with other program pathways, and plan next steps.

Office of Study Abroad
California State University, Los Angeles
Library Palmer Wing, Room 4053

Email:
[email protected]

Phone:
323-343-3170