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.
Complete Study Abroad 101
Complete Cal State LA's self-paced orientation to understand program pathways, academic planning, costs, funding, responsibilities, and next steps.
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.
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.
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