The California State University system (Cal State) is made up of 23 campuses located throughout California with Humboldt State in the North and San Diego State University in the South. This means you can choose to study somewhere with a big city feel or a small town feel and everything in between. With the state holding some of the major National Parks such as Yosemite, Death Valley and Joshua Tree there’s plenty to see and do when you are not studying. The CSU is home to students from the top third of the state's high school graduates and is California's primary undergraduate teaching institution. CSU strives to create a welcoming environment for all members of the campus communities. This commitment is evident in its students who make up the most ethnically, economically and academically diverse student body in the USA.
It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.
Who can study here?
Swansea has a ‘university-wide’ partnership with this university which means that it is open to all subject areas except for Law.
Spaces are not guaranteed, can be limited and all students on a semester/year abroad programme are subject to a university-wide, competitive selection process.
Important information
ACADEMIC YEAR: Runs August to May.
COSTS: The cost of living in California will vary depending on the campus you choose as well as type of accommodation and meal plan you select. For visa (study permit) purposes, you will be required to provide financial evidence for a specific amount. Further details are below.
VISA: You will need a J-1 exchange visa and will be required to provide financial evidence as part of the application. This will vary between campuses. To apply for a visa, you will need to pay a SEVIS fee of approx $220 plus an application fee of approx $185. In addition, you should factor in the cost of attending a visa interview at the US Embassy (typically in London). More information is available on the US Embassy website: https://uk.usembassy.gov/applying-f-1-j-1-visa/ You must allow enough time to complete the visa application and for your visa to be sent to you. There can be significant delays so please do not leave this until the last minute as you cannot travel to the USA without it.
ACCOMMODATION: Housing is not guarenteed but, on-campus accomodation is available. Specific housing options will be provided by host CSU campus after you have been admitted.
HEALTH INSURANCE: You will be required to purchase mandatory health insurance for your time at California State. Health insurance fees vary by campus. Click on the link for information.
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