International Experience Requirement "All Spanish majors are required to complete an approved study abroad program in a Spanish-speaking country consisting of a minimum of six units (90 hours). To fulfill the International Experience Requirement, Spanish majors must enroll in a study abroad program approved by the department. Participation in other study abroad programs without the written approval of the department will not meet the international experience requirement for the major." (2009-2010) General Catalog SDSU, p. 400)

There are many options available to satisfy your International Experience Requirement. Your first step is to research to find what is best for you. You can do a summer program, a full semester or an entire year abroad. Program requirements and details, including GPA and deadlines, vary depending on each program. Your second setp is to set up an appointment with the International Programs Coordinator by calling (760) 768-5502.

The Spanish Department sponsors numerous programs that offer SDSU resident credit. There are some programs offered in the summer: Costa Rica (sometimes in winter too) and Spain. In addition, there are semester programs in Spain. Detailed information about these programs is available at www.ces.sdsu.edu/travel

Other options for study abroad programs available include the SDSU Exchange Programs (the least expensive programs; can be for one semester or one year. Some of the countries currently are Argentina, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico and Spain); the International Student Exchange Programs (ISEP, which are very similar to the SDSU Exchange but offer additional countries); and the CSU International Programs (these are for all CSU campuses; highly competitive and must be for a full year in length.) Detailed information of each of the mentioned programs is available at the Programs Overview.

There are separate checklist (SDSU Exchange Programs Checklist, the ISEP Exchange/ISEP Direct Program Checklist and the Non-SDSU Program Checklist) that are available in the Form & Checklist page that provide all required information and documents needed for you to apply to study abroad. Please note that the Host University application will be provided to you by email.

After your return, you must complete the Spanish Clearance Form in order for you to clear your International Experience Requirement. Please complete and return to the International Programs Office for processing. This form will be sent to the Spanish Department at the SD Campus for approval and signature.

Also, if the courses taken abroad do not match those noted on the Study Abroad Academic Approval Form (submitted prior to study abroad program), you will need to use the RAAR form to petition for fulfilling GE or Department requirements.

Accepted Students Those student who have been accepted to participate in a study abroad program, review this link to get information on academic credit, finances, health & safety, travel info, etc.