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CSUSB-Led


What are CSUSB-Led Programs? 

CSUSB-Led programs are short study abroad programs that are unique to our university. They are led by CSUSB faculty and staff with expertise in the location you are traveling to. CSUSB-Led programs arrange all of your housing and in-country travel, and they provide 24-hour on-the-ground support. Some activities are touristic, but most align with course content. These programs are great for getting off the beaten track, getting to know a faculty member (who can write a glowing reference letter for future job and grad school applications), and studying abroad without having to worry about planning the logistics. 


How long am I abroad? 

These are short programs, between one and five weeks in length. 


Where Can I go? 

Destinations vary each year. Past destinations have included: Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan, Thailand, Costa Rica, Peru, Mexico, Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania, the Czech Republic, and more. 

See a full list of current CSUSB-led program options


When Do I Apply?

CSUSB-Led opportunities are listed on the following schedule:

  • Spring Break programs are listed in October. Applications are typically due between November and December.

  • Summer programs are listed in October and November. Applications are typically due in February, but those associated with Spring semester classes are due earlier. 

  • Winter programs are listed in March. Applications are typically due in April and May.


What classes can I take? 

Each CSUSB-led program is associated with a CSUSB course. Most of these courses align with a GE requirement, but not all. Often, the Education Abroad Office arranges several options for course substitutions (in case the course offered is not a part of your degree requirements). If these substitutions do not work for you, you can ask your department chair if they are willing to make a different substitution for your major requirements. You can also choose to participate in a study abroad program as an elective class, counting toward your unit minimum to graduate but not toward any specific degree requirement. 

Most CSUSB-led programs offer a graduate level course option. If a graduate-level option is not available and you are a graduate student wishing to participate on the program, contact the Education Abroad Office at goabroad@csusb.edu for assistance. 


Who is eligible? 

Any CSUSB student with a 2.0+ GPA may participate in CSUSB-led programs, unless otherwise indicated in the program brochure. Some programs do have prerequisites.

CSUSB-Led programs provide the best support for students using veterans benefits to finance their study abroad participation, and for those who require disability accommodations. CSUSB-led programs may be the only study abroad option available to students with a low GPA.

CSUSB programs are also sometimes able to accommodate students from other universities, CSUSB faculty and staff, and even community members. Faculty and staff are not required to enroll in the associated course, but students from other universities and community members are required to register for the course.


How much does it cost? 

All CSUSB-Led programs run on a break even model. What that means is that you are paying for the cost of the trip, but nothing more. The "Program Fee" will typically cover your accommodations and all transportation and other costs associated with the program itinerary. Some programs will cover additional expenses, like meals or even airfare. You are also provided with travel insurance for emergencies. The Program Fee is typically between $1500 and $4000.

Additional costs not included in the program fee include CSUSB tuition for the associated course(s), flight (if not covered by the program fee), meals, and independent travel and entertainment.

All of these expenses are dependent not only on your destination and length of stay, but also your personal spending habits. Review the "Cost" tab of the program you are interested in for more details.