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Study Abroad Programs
Sacramento State offers a variety of study abroad opportunities in 20+ countries worldwide, allowing students to choose programs that align with their academic, personal, and professional goals.
Programs vary by location, field of study, and duration. Students are encouraged to explore options and meet with a Study Abroad Advisor to find the best fit.
Search our database to find your study abroad program!
Program Highlights
There are two main program options for study abroad:
- Sac State Direct Exchange Programs: Open to Sac State students only. These programs can be done for a semester or a year. Limited summer options are also available.
- CSU International Programs: Open to students at any of the 23 CSU campuses. These can be done for a semester or a year. No summer options are available.
The main difference between Direct Exchange and CSU-IP is administrative. Direct Exchange programs are run by our office on campus, while CSU-IP is administered by the Chancellor's Office in Long Beach. Although the application and acceptance processes are slightly different, both options offer the same tuition cost, opportunity to apply existing financial aid packages, and classes taken for resident credit.
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in study abroad programs, students must meet the following elibigility requirements:
- Must be enrolled at Sacramento State for at least one semester prior to going abroad. This requirement applies to transfer students as well.
- Must meet GPA and program-specific academic requirements.
- Must be in good academic and disciplinary standing.
Sac State students in London, UK
Sac State Direct Exchange
Direct Exchange programs are only offered to current Sac State students. Students will take courses at the partner university with other international and local students. Through Direct Exchange, students can:
- Study at partner universities abroad
- Pay Sacramento State tuition
- Earn resident credit toward your degree
*Note that Academic Year refers to programs that start in the fall and end in the spring, while Calendar Year refers to to programs that start in the spring and end in the fall.
Program Duration: Semester or Academic Year
Fees: Sac State tuition + living expenses
Financial Aid: Available through FAFSA and scholarships; typically applies directly
Credit type: Resident
Konkuk University, Korea
CSU International Programs
Open to students at any of the 23 CSU campuses. Students have an opportunity to study in multiple countries and universities through hte CSU system.
Program Duration: Semester or Year
Fees: Sac State tuition + living expenses
Financial Aid: Available through FAFSA and scholarships; typically applies directly
Credit type: Resident
Please follow the links below to access the CSU-IP program page. To search programs by major, follow the "IP Program Search" button below, and scroll down to the "Areas of Study" field on the lefthand side in the "Parameters" section to begin your research.
Nelson Mandela University, South Africa
Faculty-Led Programs
Faculty-Led Programs (FLPs): Short term programs open to anyone. These programs are generally 1-2 weeks long and take place during the summer or winter terms. Students who participate in FLPs will earn Sac State credit for courses and will be traveling with faculty and peers. Financial aid may be available depending on program structure.
Please note that all FLPs are administered by the College of Continuing Education.
Third-Party Provider Programs
Third-Party Provider Policy
There are many third-party provider options for students, however students may only participate in programs that are approved by the Study Abroad Office. Programs outside the approved providers will be considered independent. Additionally, Sacramento State may not guarantee credit transfer, financial aid capability, or institutional support for non-approved programs and students choosing these programs are doing so at their own risk.
Approved Third-Party Provider Programs
There is a wide range of locations and program models for students. These are often used for summer study abroad opportunities and offer transfer credit rather than residential credit. Financial aid may be available for students but may require additional steps and documentation.
Here is a list of approved programs:
USAC, a nonprofit organization since 1982, has provided students with life-changing opportunities to live and learn in countries around the globe. We have more than 50 affordable, authentic study abroad programs in 26 countries, and strive to provide you with ample opportunities to become engaged, global citizens.
Maximo Nivel is the leading organization in study abroad and educational travel in Latin America. We are an internationally-accredited organization with 4 local institutes in 3 of the world’s most beautiful countries — Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru.