Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the frequently asked questions on study abroad at Cal Poly Pomona.
Do you have questions about studying abroad? Are you having problems with your application? Be sure to contact the Study Abroad Office as soon as possible.
General Questions
Through study abroad, Broncos are engaging in cultures different from their own and adding value to their degree. They are studying, researching, interning and partnering with local communities around the world.
Study abroad programs are academically focused with credit that counts toward graduation. Coursework is available in every college, including opportunities in the Honors College.
While some students prefer to participate in programs specific to their major, it is not a requirement. Students can complete credit that goes towards a minor or a specialization or they can earn credit that counts towards their GE requirements or elective credit. We recommend that you meet with your academic advisor to discuss the best option for you.
As long as you meet the specific requirements for the individual program (for example, you have completed prerequisite classes or have the required GPA), you can apply.
CPP offers education abroad programs that run during a full semester (fall or spring), over breaks (winter break or spring break), for an entire academic year (fall and spring semester), or over the summer for varying lengths (1-week to 12-weeks from May to August).
The "best time" to go abroad depends on each student's own academic program, and personal preference. Consult your academic advisor for your major as they can help plan most effectively.
You can also schedule an appointment to meet with a Study Abroad Advisor or speak with a student Peer Adviser at the International Center.
Accommodations vary from program to program. Types of housing can include home stays, hotels, university dorms, or off-campus housing such as an apartment. Each housing opportunity has its own advantages. For example, home stays provide students with the opportunity to further their foreign language skills, while foreign university dorms may provide a great chance for CPP students to meet other students from around the world.
For each program, the type of housing available for students will be specified on the program description.
No. Study abroad is a great opportunity for students who would like to develop their foreign language skills; however, knowing a foreign language is not a requirement for all education abroad programs.
Some programs do require a certain level of proficiency in a different language, but this is not the norm. While some programs may have a foreign language component, others may not. The contact language (the language within the classroom) may also be in English, even while being in a foreign-speaking country.
Information regarding language requirements can be found within each program’s description.
Planning at least one year prior to departure is ideal. That gives you time to research the best program to fit your needs, get course approvals if necessary, apply for scholarships, make flight
arrangements, get your passport (and visa if applicable), and more! Also note, most application deadlines are due a full semester (or more) in advance.
Be sure to consult with your study abroad and academic advisors to plan effectively.
You can withdraw from a program at any time, but it’s important you understand your responsibilities for notifying the Office of Study Abroad as well as any refund policies that will apply depending on the time that you withdraw. Withdrawing close to departure will have significant financial implications.
If you're unable to participate in your program of choice, remember the Office for Study Abroad is here to help. Please contact your Study Abroad Advisor to help you consider alternative options!
Have a question that's not answered above? Contact one of our peer or staff advisors.
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