Eligibility and How to Apply

Landscape Architecture students typically participate in study abroad or off-campus study during their fourth year. Students should begin exploring their options and discussing academic planning during their second year.

Eligibility and academic credit depend on the student's degree progress, the selected program, and the proposed coursework. Students must meet with a Landscape Architecture faculty advisor before applying.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Be in good academic standing with a minimum Cal Poly cumulative GPA of 2.75. Individual programs may require a higher GPA.
2. Be making satisfactory progress toward the degree and be on track with required major courses and prerequisites.
3. Successfully complete LA 3322 Studio V.
4. Review degree progress and proposed off-campus coursework with a Landscape Architecture faculty advisor.
5. Prepare a plan identifying how proposed courses may apply to major, support-courses, electives, or General Education requirements.
6. Meet all departmental, university, and program-specific application requirements and deadlines.

Academic credit and course substitutions are not guaranteed and must be approved in advance.

Process for Participation and Application Form

Review and Research Programs - Attend the department's annual study abroad presentation and explore current opportunities through the Cal Poly Abroad website. Compare program dates, curriculum, location, costs, housing, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines.

Attend Required Information Sessions – Attend a Study Abroad 101 Workshop, complete the required online module, and participate in relevant departmental and program information sessions.

Estimate Costs – Prepare a budget that includes tuition, program fees, airfare, local transportation, housing, meals, insurance, supplies, passport or visa expenses, and personal costs. Consult the Financial Aid Office and discuss the financial plan with your family or support network as appropriate.

Meet with a Landscape Architecture Faculty Advisor – Review your degree progress, program schedule, proposed coursework, prerequisites, potential course substitutions, and applications requirements before applying.

Complete the Required Applications – Submit the Landscape Architecture departmental application (linked below) and the appropriate Cal Poly International Center application. Some programs also require a separate application to a host university or partner organization. Requirements and deadlines vary by program.

Complete the Departmental Application – Submit the Landscape Architecture application by the deadline published for the current application cycle. The department will review eligibility, degree progress, proposed coursework, preliminary course substitutions, and scheduling considerations.

How to Apply

1. Begin planning during your second year.
2. Review current program options.
3. Attend Study Abroad 101 and complete the required online module.
4. Meet with a Landscape Architecture faculty advisor.
5. Develop an academic plan and preliminary budget.
6. Submit the Landscape Architecture departmental application.
7. Submit the Cal Poly International Center application.
8. Complete any additional host-university or partner-program application.
9. Obtain written approval for proposed courses and substitutions.
10. Complete all required orientations and pre-departure requirements.