New Students / University Semester Abroad & Exchange

Danish students at CSUF

University Semester Abroad

Congratulations on your admission! To help you prepare for your trip to Fullerton, we have created a pre-arrival checklist specifically for new University Semester Abroad (USA) students. Bookmark this page and visit often to successfully prepare for your semester at Cal State Fullerton.

Pre-Arrival Checklist 

Please complete all items before the semester begins. Many items will have to be completed well before the semester starts, so please read the entire list and prepare early.

After you receive your Form I-20 "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status" from California State University, Fullerton, you can begin the process of applying for U.S. student visa. Students who receive a Form I-20 can apply for a F-1 visa. 

Before you apply for a visa, you must first pay the I-901 SEVIS fee. For information on how to apply for a visa and schedule your visa interview, visit the US Department of State's webpage on student visas.

  • Required New International Student Orientation (typically held before semester begins):
    • Fall 2026: Friday, August 21, 2026
    • Spring 2027: To be announced

Accommodations are not provided by the University and staying in hotels in and around the area will be costly.Learn more about housing options in and around Fullerton.

In order to meet health insurance requirements for international students, California State University Fullerton (CSUF) requires all enrolled F-1 international students to purchase the CSUF International Student Health Plan administered by United HealthCare Student Resources before registering for classes. No alternate health insurance plans are accepted. U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents and non-F-1 international students are not eligible to purchase this plan.  Visit the health insurance page to learn more.

You are required to pay for tuition and fees before arriving in the United States. The total amount to pay is USD 5,622.00 for Fall 2026 and $5,960 for Spring 2027 and beyond. You can pay tuition in the following ways: 

  • Online Payments:  Make a payment online through your Student Homepage. Navigate to Financial Account tile through your Student Home page to find the links to make an online payment at CSUF Student Portal.
  • In-person or Mail-in Payments: payments can be dropped off at Gordon Hall-180 at Window #10 or mailed to Student Business Services office at: Gordon Hall - 180, PO Box 6808, Fullerton, CA 92834
  • Please always include your student's CWID on your payments. 
  • For more payment options please visit Student Business Services site.

Your attendance is required at the International Student Orientation. Details for Orientation are sent to new students via email.

  • Fall 2026: Friday, August 21, 2026
  • Spring 2027: To be announced

Additionlly, you are required to complete Virtual Check-in before the Friday of your first semester. Failure to attend the mandatory Orientation and complete the check-in will negatively impact your F-1 visa status.