Study Abroad & Exchange

Planning to Apply

We are happy that you are considering studying at California State University, Chico. 

We do everything we can to guarantee that our international students will have a wonderful experience in Chico. While you are here we arrange various activities for you through our International Wildcat Program. These activities are designed to help you meet U.S. and international students, experience U.S. culture, and learn more about Chico State and the Chico community.

Chico is located north of Sacramento and is only a few hours away from Lake Tahoe, San Francisco, and the Oregon border. A three-hour drive will bring you to the mountains, the city or the beach.

California State University, Chico offers you a quality education in a gorgeous setting. Whether you enjoy sports, shopping, hiking, mountain biking, eating different types of cuisine, or sitting at local cafes, Chico has it all. 

View the Chico State Welcomes You video for more information about Chico State!

View the Chico State Welcomes You video for more information about Chico State!

Application Steps

There are three main steps in the application process for exchange students:

Step 1: Make sure your home university is one of our Exchange Partners (see list below).  If your university is not on this list, you will need to work directly with our  International Admissions office.

Set 2: Once have confirmed that your university is our Exchange Partner, you must receive permission from your home university's international programs office to participate in the exchange.

Step 3: After your home university has selected you as a participant in the exchange, you will be ready to apply to Chico State. Learn more at How to Apply.

Exchange Partners

Application Deadlines

  • Fall (August – December) Semester – March 15th
  • Spring (January – May) Semester – October 1st
For information about Chico State courses, semester calendars, costs, housing options and more, please see the Chico State Fact Sheet(opens in new window).