Explore the world. Discover yourself.
Study Abroad
Here at California State University, Bakersfield, there are many ways to study abroad with many durations possible. The typical durations offered are 2-week programs during the summer/winter session, fall or spring semester programs, or full academic year programs (both the fall and spring semester). CSUB has study abroad opportunities in 20+ countries with about 60 partner universities.
What are the benefits of studying abroad?
- Studying abroad is a unique and exciting opportunity for one’s academic studies in which you can enroll and experience the conventions of classrooms abroad. The units in which you enroll in can transfer back to your degree program here at CSUB. Studying abroad also acts as a great resume builder that potential employers take note of and ask to learn more about. Make yourself stand out in the interview!
- Traveling experiences are another wonderful component of studying abroad as you can experience new/different public transportation services that are easily accessible. While studying for a semester or two, you’ll be able to travel during weekends or certain holidays to explore and enjoy the area and country you are in. Traveling with other students often helps make expenses more affordable.
- Lifetime international friendship is another benefit to studying abroad, as you will interact with several other students during your time abroad. Some partner universities often support to their international students by hosting events to incorporate them into the university. You’ll have several opportunities to meet and befriend other international exchange students such as yourself, and students native to that university and country.
Other benefits to studying abroad include broadening one’s global perspective and participating as a global citizen. In understanding other cultures, you also have the opportunity to represent and speak on behalf of your own; this exchange allows you to not only appreciate what other countries and cultures have to offer, but become more aware of what the U.S. might offer that isn’t available elsewhere.
Want to make studying abroad a reality? Fill out our interest form so we can connect with you with the best opportunities suited for you!
Faculty-Led Programs (FLPs)
At times, CSUB offers faculty-led programs (FLPs) as a special type of study abroad opportunity. FLPs are typically 7-10 days in a different country in which a specific CSUB professor will be leading the group of selected students. FLPs, like the traditional study abroad programs, are credit bearing towards one’s degree, as it is an academic program. Some of CSUB's faculty-led programs that have occurred or are recurring include:
- FLP Dominica with Dr. Heidi McLaughlin, 14 days on the island of Dominica in June 2025
- *Please email studyabroad@csub.edu and hmclaughlin1@csub.edu to learn more.
- FLP Dominica is offered through the Psychology Department but is open to all!
- FLP Italy with Dr. David Olson, a week in Florence, December
- FLP UK and Ireland with Dr. David Olson, 10 days in London and Dublin, January, or April
- FLP France with Dr. Lena Taub, 10 days in Paris, June
- FLP Japan with Dr. Jon Young, 8 days in Osaka and Kansai area, June
- FLP Basque Country with Dr. Steven Gamboa, 10 days in June
- FLP Costa Rica with Dr. Krystal Ball, 10 days in San Jose, June
- FLP Micronesia with Dr. Krystal Ball, 10 days in Micronesia, July
- FLP Zambia with Dr. Krystal Ball, 10 days in Zambia, June
Read more about CSUB's first faculty-led trip to Dominica!
FLP Development Process Resources
Turn an idea into a program: If a faculty member wishes to develop and plan a faculty-led program, please read the following documents that explain the planning process and other useful tips.
- WEB FLP Proposal and Development Process 20231113.pdf
- WEB Lead FLP prof responsibilities 20231113.pdf
- WEB FAQ on Who Can Attend FLPs.pdf
Summer Programs
Most partner universities offer summer programs in which students can enroll in foreign language and cultural studies that provides hands-on experience in a country where the target language is spoken. Korea, Japan, France, Germany, and Spain are the main countries where language and culture programs are promoted. Other summer programs offer regular courses such as history or economics, or even special courses that emphasize a unique component of that country; for example, Radboud University and Paris School of Business will typically offer luxury brand marketing or wine marketing courses.
Popular Summer Programs
- Summer programs in Japan 2024.pdf
- Chung-ang University
- Comillas Pontifical University
- PSB (Paris School of Business)
- University of Osnabruck (Language and culture / From Embedded Sensors to Data Science)
- The Hague Summer School
- Maximo Nivel (all year round)
- AIFS Abroad (all year round)
My study abroad experience has shaped me as a student and as a future educator. It has made me more open-minded about culture and languages. I had many highlights this summer. I decided on Sogang University because it gave me the option to take two classes and it included cultural trips on the weekend. In addition, I met amazing people from different countries that I still communicate with.Lidia Jacobo
CSU International Programs
California State University International Programs, also known as CSU IP, is the CSU’s systemwide study abroad and exchange program. Many of the CSU IP exchange programs are for an academic year (2 semesters), and CSU IP offers information sessions and office hours virtually. Since CSU IP exchange programs are available to all CSU campuses, not just CSUB, some programs may be more popular and competitive, such as the exchange programs in Australia, Japan, Korea, and the UK. To learn more about the exchange programs through CSU IP, visit the IP Exchange Partners website.
CSU IP Application Deadlines
- For fall programs: February 15
- For spring programs: September 15
Bilateral Exchange Programs
A bilateral exchange program is the study abroad agreement and opportunity specifically between CSUB and another university overseas, unlike the exchange programs through CSU IP that are available to all CSU campuses. This allows for a higher likelihood of being selected for a bilateral exchange program.
When it comes to tuition, CSUB students will pay tuition at CSUB (at the current CSUB tuition rate) rather than pay tuition towards the host university at their own designated rate. CSUB students will be responsible for other expenses such as airfare, living expenses, and personal expenses. (Some bilateral partner universities require exchange students to live on campus in their dormitory facilities, while others do not.)
To learn more about our bilateral partner universities, visit our Explore Programs page.
Japan was genuinely life-changing for me. I met so many wonderful people and learned so much about another culture and way of life. This opportunity has opened so many doors for me, and I have made some new life-long friends.Zach Pifer
Sample Budget Sheet (exact expenses amount will vary)
| Items | Costs | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cost to the University (Spring 2023) | - | - |
| (Expenses student pays directly to CSUB) | - | - |
| Tuition and fees (In-State/live at home)* | $ 3,804.00 | - |
| Total University Cost | $ 3,804.00 | - |
| 2. Additional Out of Pocket Costs | - | - |
| Visa-related Fees | $135.00 | multiple entries |
| Mandatory Travel Health Insurance | $265.00 | - |
| Housing for 4 months | $1,600.00 | 400 x 4 |
| Meals | $3,600.00 | $30/day x 120 days |
| Transportation | $240.00 | $60 monthly pass x 4 |
| Personal Expenses | $2,200.00 | 400 x 4 (travel, books, clothes, phone, social events) |
| Roundtrip Airfare | $1,000.00 | - |
| Total Additional out of Pocket Cost | $9,240.00 | - |
| Total Estimated Program Cost | $13,044.00 | - |
*(Including state university fees and campus-based fees for 2022-23)
Based on Univ. of Adger website information
In order to apply for a bilateral exchange program, students must be nominated by the Study Abroad Office/Director. To discuss bilateral exchange programs and the nomination process, please email Study Abroad Office Director Yuri Sakamaki at ysakamaki@csub.edu.
Nomination period:
- For fall programs: March-May (depending on the university)
- For spring programs: September-October (depending on the university)
Connect with us or find your program
Drea Roberts's Study Abroad Experience in South Korea
FLP Paris, France
On June 13, 2022, ten CSUB students departed for a ten-day trip to Paris, France, sponsored by the Beaver Foundation. Accompanied by CSUB French professor, Dr. Lena Taub, these students travelled throughout Paris and put their classroom knowledge of the French language to the test! The ten-day trip involved visiting several famous landmarks and museums, such as Notre Dame, the Louvre Museum, Versailles Castle, and the Eiffel Tower.
In order for the students to achieve immersion in French culture and society, they were given several different oral tasks to enhance their comprehension and basic communication skills, such as buying groceries, purchasing metro and museum tickets, ordering dinner, and greeting people appropriately in the French language. The students were also graded on having consistent journal reflections on each excursion, as well as delivering 5-minute presentations on their findings to their peers. CSUB students not only had the opportunity to visit distinct locations as a group, but also freely explore local shops and cafes in smaller pairs.
FLP Global Nursing, Cusco, Peru
On July 1, 2022, 21 CSUB nursing students left the U.S. for a 10-day trip to Cusco, Peru. Welcomed by Maximo Nivel, one of CSUB’s partner schools, these nursing students were accommodated in a student residency for the duration of their stay. FLP Peru gave these students a wonderful opportunity to join medical campaigns that Maximo Nivel organizes to treat patients within the country that may not normally have access to healthcare.
From providing checkups to local children and adults to addressing general healthcare topics, such as personal hygiene, sexual education, and dental care, CSUB’s nursing students were also given the opportunity to explore the area and learn more about Peru’s rich history and indigenous communities. Students also enjoyed a hike in Rainbow Mountain as well as the marvelous visit to Machu Pichu. This hybrid approach of exploration and education while in Peru provided the nursing students with several other opportunities, such as visiting hospitals and clinics and receiving Spanish language instructions.
Contact Us
Study Abroad and Fulbright Programs Office
DirectorStudy Abroad and Fulbright Programs
Phone: (661) 654-3657Email: ysakamaki@csub.eduOffice: Room 403, BDC Building C
Student Services CoordinatorStudy Abroad and Fulbright Programs
Phone: (661) 654-2442Email: lgonzalez91@csub.eduOffice: Room 421, BDC Building CIf you would like to meet with us to discuss study abroad opportunities, please fill out our interest form and we will be in touch in a timely manner!