Choosing a Program You Can Afford
Did you know that the estimated cost of attendance(opens in new window) for a full-time student at CSU, Chico for the academic year is approximately $25,000? Many study abroad or study away programs cost the same as CSU, Chico, enabling students to participate for the same cost as a semester or year spent at Chico State. In some cases, students will spend less than they would at Chico.
Top Tips & Resources for Financial Planning
- By planning ahead and demonstrating flexibility in the choice of program and location, students can plan their finances accordingly to study abroad or study away.
- Apply to scholarships(opens in new window)! This is money that you do not have to pay back.
- Learn more about the different ways to fund your study abroad by checking out the Fund Your Study Abroad Experience (PDF) sheet.
- On a tight budget? Begin your research with the Study Abroad On The Cheap(opens in new window) guide, which lists the most affordable study abroad options available to Chico students.
- Visit the Study Abroad and Financial Aid(opens in new window) page for more information. Financial Aid students should use the guide prepared for them by the Financial Aid Office when researching their program options.
Preparing Your Budget
Program location and lifestyle will largely influence the cost of a study abroad or study away program. Try to plan your finances as early as possible. You want to be sure to have enough financial resources in order to take full advantage of living in a foreign country or a different state and the numerous travel possibilities that will be available to you.
Money management while abroad is often more challenging for a number of reasons. First, there are more opportunities to spend money on "once-in-a-lifetime opportunities" (e.g. travel and entertainment) and students may struggle with computing currency conversions. Familiarize yourself with the exchange rates and the cost/value of items before you depart. Also, prior to your departure, we strongly recommend reviewing the estimated costs of your program and speaking with alumni to budget carefully. if possible, it is a good idea to budget for more than you think is necessary in case an emergency (or a tempting weekend excursion) arises.
Students on a tight budget, work closely with your Study Abroad & Exchange Advisor, peer advisor, and past participants to set a realistic spending plan.