CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Paris, France

CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Paris, France

Location
  • France
    • Paris
Term
Fall, Spring, Summer
Subject Areas
Art History Business Chemistry Communications Cultural Studies Economics Engineering European Studies Fashion Design Film Finance Gender Studies Global Studies History International Business International Relations Liberal Arts Linguistics Literature Marketing Mathematics Political Science Social Sciences Sociology +14
Need-based funding, Merit-based funding, General grants/scholarships, Payment plans, Work study, LGBTQIA+ funding, BIPOC funding
Health & Safety

Program Details

Program Type
Provider
Degree Level
High School Diploma Associates Bachelors
Housing
Apartment Dormitory Host Family
Language
English

Pricing

Price Details
Included: Personalized Pre-departure Advising; Tuition & Registration; Travel Medical Insurance; On-site Orientation; Housing; Volunteer Opportunities; On-site Staff Support; Excursions and Cultural Engagement; Host Institution Services & Amenities and more. Scholarships available.
What's Included
Some Accommodation Activities Airport Transfers Classes Travel Insurance
Sep 29, 2025
Feb 23, 2026
119 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Imagine spending a semester in Paris, the embodiment of fine art, cuisine, fashion, and more. Home to one of the world’s most beautiful skylines, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, and the enchanting Seine River, Paris has an incredible history. Experience the beauty of Paris easily by taking the Metro or with the city’s famed public bike system.

Choose from a wide range of courses offered in both English and French at the CEA CAPA Center or take courses with The Catholic University of Paris.

Interested? Click the “Visit Site” button to learn what’s possible!

COMMUNITY REVIEWS SUMMARY

Students appreciate the program’s strong cultural immersion, engaging classes with city-based learning, and supportive staff who assist with housing and safety.

Video and Photos

Diversity & Inclusion 💙

CEA CAPA provides, in conjunction with Diversity Abroad, Destination Guides which provide resources and tips for Black/African-American students, Latinx students, Asian American students, and all other students of color.
Through our personalized advising, CEA CAPA takes steps to understand the needs of a diversity of student identities like the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to diversity and identity training, CEA CAPA leadership engage in continuous department level project work to identify and revise policies and practices using the appropriate Justice, Equity, Diversity or Inclusion lens as a frame to reduce bias and barriers that impact students, faculty, and staff. CEA CAPA is intentional in elevating diverse student voices and providing a platform for a broad array of identities to share their experiences abroad. The CEA CAPA World Blog promotes stories and personal experiences from the perspectives of diverse student bloggers and vloggers.
CEA CAPA is willing and able to assist students with learning disabilities and physical disabilities. Students are requested to disclose disabilities through the application health forms as part of their application and in discussion with their application advisor or program manager. The earlier CEA CAPA is made aware of learning or physical disabilities the better we can work with the student, institution, and overseas team to tailor an Individualized Education Program if necessary to support the student.

Impact 🌎

CEA CAPA makes a conscious effort to create study abroad experiences that leave a positive impact on host communities. Each location implements a variety of strategies to support the local community and promote sustainability. Examples include:

Use of recycling bins in Study Center locations and in CEA CAPA housing

Signage in CEA CAPA housing urging students to limit water and electricity usage

Students are often given reusable bags and water bottles upon arrival to limit single plastic use

Students are provided with instructions for acquiring transportation passes to promote use of public transportation rather than taxis

Program Highlights

  • Hands-on learning experiences that transform the world abroad into a classroom
  • Personalized Pre-Departure Advising, including visa and immigration support
  • Courses offered in English that fulfill major and general graduation requirements
  • Comprehensive on-site support, including 24/7 emergency phone
  • Career workshops, Internships Abroad, and Alumni Ambassador positions

Program Reviews

4.80 Rating
based on 82 reviews
  • 5 rating 82.93%
  • 4 rating 15.85%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 1.22%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Academics 4.05
  • Support 4.75
  • Fun 4.6
  • Housing 4.35
  • Safety 4.7
Showing 1 - 8 of 82 reviews
Breanne
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CEA CAPA Paris Fashion Studies Program Review

I truly feel that CEA CAPA had a significant role in helping my experience abroad be incredibly successful and rewarding. While studying abroad in a different country for a semester can seem pretty intimidating, the staff at CEA CAPA and their support helped the transition feel as seamless as possible. From having professors with industry experience to hosting events that encouraged cultural immersion, CEA CAPA hosts extremely well-organized programs that are centered around students' well-being.

38 people found this review helpful.
Sophie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CEA CAPA Paris Abroad Experience

I was in Paris for a semester, and it was truly incredible! I was able to explore and learn about the city by myself and with friends, but CEA CAPA's program and classes made my experience even better. Every class incorporated excursions where we would be able to visit relevant sites, museums, stores, etc. I also was able to practice French and feel like a local in one of the most well-known cities in the world. I would 100% recommend this program to anyone considering a semester abroad—you will not regret it.

Pros
  • beautiful city/location with so so much history
  • incredible food
  • so many cool people to meet
Cons
  • time difference with many places in the USA
  • costly
49 people found this review helpful.
Desiree
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Studying in Paris

This study abroad program was a truly life-changing experience for both myself and my peers. As someone who is deeply interested in fashion, art, and culture, Paris felt like the perfect place to learn and grow. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this city offered so much more than academic oppurtunity. Paris is a global hub for creativity, and being able to experience it firsthand was incredibly inspiring. Fashion, in particular, was woven into everyday life.

Whether it was seeing iconic designs in museums, learning about the history of major fashion houses, or simply observing street style, I gained a deeper understanding of how fashion functions as culture and self-expression. Being surrounded by such a strong appreciation for design and craftsmanship pushed me to think differently about my own creative interests.

Art and history were everywhere. Visiting museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, walking past historic architecture, and exploring different neighborhoods helped bring our studies to life. Even simple moments, like sitting in a café or walking along the Seine, felt so meaningful. One of the most impactful parts of the program was the personal growth that came with living abroad. Navigating a new city, adjusting to cultural differences, and becoming more independent challenged me in the best way possible. These experiences helped me gain confidence, adaptability, and a greater sense of self. I also loved sharing this journey with my peers. The program also broadened my perspective on global culture. Interacting with people from different backgrounds and seeing how life is lived outside of the U.S. helped me develop a deeper appreciation for different ways of thinking and creating. It reminded me how important it is to stay open-minded and curious, especially as someone interested in creative industries. Studying abroad in Paris was an unforgettable experience that exceeded my expectations. It strengthened my passion for fashion, art, and culture while helping me grow personally and creatively. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to step outside their comfort zone, gain a global perspective, and experience a city that truly inspires creativity.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
Being less scared of rejection and judgement
Pros
  • beautiful city
  • so much to do
  • good metro system
Cons
  • expensive
  • sometimes rude people
  • challenging academics
50 people found this review helpful.
Olivia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Abroad in Paris!

Studying abroad in Paris with CEA CAPA during Fall 2025 was truly one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of my life. As a graphic design and advertising major, Paris felt like the perfect place to study abroad because of its deep connection to art, architecture, design, and culture. From the moment I arrived, I felt immersed in a city that constantly inspired me creatively and personally. Every day felt like an opportunity to learn something new, whether through my classes, my neighborhood, or simply walking through the city.

One of the things I appreciated most about CEA CAPA was how well the academic experience was integrated into the city itself. My classes, especially my architecture and art history courses focused on the history of Paris, went far beyond the classroom. We explored neighborhoods, landmarks, museums, and architectural sites that we were learning about in real time, which made the material feel alive and unforgettable. Seeing centuries of history firsthand completely changed the way I understand design and visual culture, and it continues to influence how I approach my creative work today.

Outside of academics, CEA CAPA provided an incredible support system that allowed me to feel confident navigating life abroad while still encouraging independence. From orientation to on-site staff support, I always felt like I had guidance when I needed it, but also the freedom to explore Paris on my own terms. This balance helped me grow immensely as a person. I became more independent, adaptable, and confident in unfamiliar environments, skills that will stay with me long after my time abroad.
One of my favorite parts of the experience was the sense of community I found, both with other students and within my local neighborhood. I lived in one of the cutest neighborhoods in Paris, and over time it truly felt like home. I became a regular at local cafés and bakeries, practiced my French whenever I could, and grew comfortable navigating daily life like a local. These small routines made my experience feel authentic and grounded, rather than just tourist-based.

Traveling was also a huge highlight of my semester abroad. Being based in Paris made it easy to explore other parts of France and Europe, and I took every opportunity to step outside my comfort zone. Traveling taught me how to plan independently, problem-solve on the go, and embrace uncertainty, all while making unforgettable memories with friends who quickly became like family. The friendships I formed abroad are some of the closest relationships I have, and they were a huge part of what made the experience so special.

Above all, studying abroad with CEA CAPA in Paris was a time when I felt truly happy, inspired, and fulfilled. It pushed me creatively, academically, and personally in ways I never expected. I returned home with a deeper appreciation for other cultures, a stronger sense of self, and a clearer vision for my future. I recommend this program wholeheartedly to anyone considering studying abroad, especially students who want to challenge themselves, grow creatively, and experience a city that has so much to offer. Paris will always feel like a second home to me, and I’m incredibly grateful!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
One of the most surprising and inspiring parts of my time abroad was how accessible some of the world’s most iconic historical sites became. While studying in Paris, I had the opportunity to travel and see the Acropolis in Greece, the Colosseum in Rome, and Notre Dame in Paris. Standing in these places that I had only ever seen in textbooks or photos was surreal and incredibly humbling. Experiencing such powerful history firsthand made me realize how connected art, architecture, and culture truly are across different countries and time periods.
Pros
  • The classes were strong, well thought out, and directly connected to the city, making the academic experience immersive and engaging.
  • The school was in a great location, which made it easy to explore Paris and feel integrated into daily life.
  • The on-site staff were incredibly kind, supportive, and always available, creating a welcoming and well-organized program experience
Cons
  • N/A
54 people found this review helpful.
Oliver
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Oliver studying with CEA CAPA

I had a very successful time in Paris. I had never been to France before, I connected with family there that I'd never met, met and worked with people who are associated with Fashion Week, and made lasting social connections. CEA CAPA's assistance not only got me to Paris with minor difficulty, but they also placed me into a wonderful homestay and helped other students connect. The amenities in terms of trips and visits provided were a massive bonus as well. The program's courses available were interesting and not overly stressful.

What was your funniest moment?
Getting stuck behind an apartment fence with a fashion week model and had to help them climb over the fence while they were in heels.
Pros
  • Expanding my social presence in Paris.
  • Traveling to other places during my stay
  • Seeing and living the culture and enjoying the beauty.
Cons
  • Loneliness, at times. It can be hard to deal with such a long stretch of time in an unfamiliar place with new people without your old support network. But you should be building your own.
  • Too many boat tours for early start students
  • N/A
52 people found this review helpful.
Kate
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Cea Capa is amazing

I loved getting to live in a city environment. I am not from a big city, but I got to spend 4 months in Paris. CEA CAPA was an awesome program because they help house you and provide you with a study center in the middle of Paris. CEA CAPA also does fun activities for their students. I got to go to a cat cafe in Paris through CEA CAPA! Their Paris staff was also very helpful and kind. As an architecture student, my class required printing out images and our drawings often. The staff was always very helpful when it came to printing our drawings and assignments for us. They also would leave out local French pastries for us some days! This was a great program! I am happy I chose CEA CAPA.

54 people found this review helpful.
Cecilia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The best semester!

I loved my time abroad with CEA CAPA. As a student in a faculty led program, CEA helped take the stress off my two professors in the logistics of getting to Paris and allowed them to focus on teaching us. CEA helped with housing, insurance, classroom space, transportation, events happening locally, and even making new friends from the US and Paris to share cultural experiences. I was able to be there for 4 months and got to live in the same building as many other students (from CEA, my faculty led program, and students from French universities

59 people found this review helpful.
Juan David
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Great Program to Start The Summer

Paris is a great destination to pass your summer. You get the chance to discover one of the most sought after cities in the world. It is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in European culture and try something different from your normal studies. Apart from getting the chance to unravel the city, you are offered a great academic program that offers a variety of courses from technical to more creative opportunities. CEA CAPA covers it all. The staff are of great help in providing resources you can use in order to get started and acclimatize yourself to the new environment. I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to get a chance to explore a great city while getting to take classes with great professors and stepping into a unique experience that will stick with you forever.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If I decided to do the program all over again, one thing that I would change is taking advantage of all the opportunities within my reach from day one. While being abroad, time can slip by real quick, so I would advise everyone to start exploring and learning about different opportunities from the get go. Being in Europe, travel is really easy and in many circumstances cheap, so plan accordingly and get the most out of your time abroad, as it will be over before you realize it.
Pros
  • Great support structure from onsite staff
  • Amazing excursions to get to know the country you are in to a deeper level
  • Incredible city to explore
Cons
  • Trouble with foreign language
  • Getting used to moving around a big city
  • High temperatures in summer
75 people found this review helpful.

Questions & Answers