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International Services and Engagement Office ISEO
  1. ISEO
  2. Student Services
  3. Changes to Enrollment
  4. Study Abroad

Study Abroad

Iinternational students in F and J visa status are encouraged to start preparing early if they are interested in studying abroad while at UC San Diego. It is recommended that you begin researching and applying for study abroad opportunities at least one year prior to your expected study abroad start date.

Learn More About Studying Abroad

Research programs on UC San Diego’s Study Abroad website and discuss your plans with a Study Abroad Advisor.

Learn about visa requirements for the country in which you are studying by visiting that country's consulate website.

You should also contact your college advisor (undergraduates) or graduate coordinator (graduates) to ensure that you will maintain any minimum unit requirements while studying abroad

Discuss Your Plans with ISEO

Discuss your plans with an International Student Advisor at ISEO.

Considerations to discuss:

  • Is the program OAP (Opportunities Abroad Program) or EAP (Education Abroad Program)?
    • If your Tritonlink record will not show UC San Diego enrollment during the quarter you are abroad (OAP), then you will need to take gap quarter(s).
  • How will studying abroad affect U.S. visa/immigration status?
  • What are the requirements or deadlines of leaving and re-entering the U.S.?
  • Do you have minimum unit requirements for your U.S. student visa?
  • Will you finish UC San Diego degree requirements while studying abroad?
  • Will your eligibility for employment authorization such as F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT and J-1 Academic Training (AT) be impacted by actions taken on your I-20/DS-2019 due to study abroad?
  • If you are in a visa status that is dependent on a parent or spouse (Ex: E-2, H-4 status): Will you turn 21 while studying abroad? Will your spouse maintain status while you are abroad?