CIEE: Council on International Educational Exchange

CIEE

Why choose CIEE?

A nonprofit, non-governmental organization, CIEE is the world leader in international study and exchange programs. For more than 75 years, CIEE has helped thousands of students, professionals, and educators gain the knowledge and skills necessary to live and work in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world by offering the most comprehensive, relevant, and valuable exchange programs available.

Scholarships

CIEE

CIEE Scholarships and Grants

CIEE’s need-based grants offer support to students who face financial barriers to studying abroad. CIEE awards need-based grants based on students’ EFCs and program selection. The Gilman Go Global Grant offers students $750-$2,000 toward airfare, plus $2,500 toward semester program costs, or $1,000 toward summer program costs.

Value
$500 - $2,500

Upcoming Events

  1. Wed 9 July
    CIEE Gap & First Year Abroad Info Session

    Learn about CIEE's First Year Abroad and Gap Year Abroad programs! Hear from CIEE's team about program locations, courses, housing, student support, and much more.

    Hosted By:
    CIEE
  2. Wed 6 August
    CIEE Gap & First Year Abroad Info Session

    Learn about CIEE's First Year Abroad and Gap Year Abroad programs! Hear from CIEE's team about program locations, courses, housing, student support, and much more.

    Hosted By:
    CIEE
  3. Tue 12 August
    CIEE High School Semester Info Session

    Learn about CIEE High School Abroad programs! Hear from CIEE's HSA team about program locations, housing, student support, and much more.

    Hosted By:
    CIEE

Reviews

Default avatar
Rosalyn
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Student Abroad in Dublin

I absolutely loved my time in Dublin! The city has a great scene for entertainment, drinking, food, music, and beautiful views. There was something to do every night. Whether it was listening to live traditional or jazz music or going out to a pub quiz, there's always something going on. There's also loads of different markets around the city. It is also really accessible to get around throughout the city as well as to other counties around the coast of Ireland. There is so much to see and so much history. The Luas tram, the Irish rail, and the bus system is all very affordable, especially for students who can get discounts.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
The most unfamiliar thing I ate was probably a spice bag. Though it is essential chicken tenders and fries, it is so different from any way I have ever had it. It is absolutely coated in a strong seasoning and mixed with onions and peppers and then covered in a curry sauce.
Default avatar
Ahtziri
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Japan Adventure

Going abroad is one thing, but going to a country that I don't know the language, nor do most people here speak it, is another thing. Going to a country that is so different than the few that I've been in was a change. It was a lot of fun though, I got to learn how other cultures go about their every day lives. I learned to be more independent and how to get around without knowing the language. I got to experience life a whole new way. One of the best experiences I have had. I never thought I would even go to Japan, my whole plan falls under my 4 year plan and getting all my requirements done, so being able to get it done in Japan was so nice.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Don't be afraid to do things alone. I think one thing that I really liked about this program is that it reminded me how much I love being alone and doing solo trips. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed going on trips with friends, I went on a bunch of trips, but it is so much fun when going alone. The furthest I went alone was Tokyo. Do it get scared, do it alone!
Pros
  • Food
  • Friends
  • Adventures
Cons
  • Heat
  • If you hate walking, walking
Default avatar
Hsuan Chang
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Life-Changing Artistic Journey in Paris

CIEE’s Study Abroad program in Paris was truly one of the most inspiring and transformative experiences I’ve ever had. Every day was filled with creative energy, meaningful learning, and cultural discovery. The program is thoughtfully designed, and the instructors are not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also deeply invested in each student’s growth.

One of the most exciting parts of the experience was our connection to world-renowned institutions like IRCAM. Being immersed in such a vibrant artistic and academic environment was incredibly motivating. I only wish we had even more opportunities to attend performances at places like the Paris Philharmonie or visit major exhibitions—there’s just so much happening in Paris, and every moment offers something new to learn and be inspired by.

The coursework is intense in the best way—it challenges you to think deeply, work creatively, and stretch your abilities. If the program were extended to six weeks, I think students could benefit even more from the richness of the material. I also found the one-on-one lessons invaluable and would love to see them offered in longer sessions to dive deeper into individual projects.

While there’s a final reflection paper, I believe a creative program note for the final project might be an even more meaningful way for students to express their artistic journey.

Overall, this program is a dream for anyone passionate about the arts, music, or cultural exploration. You’ll leave with new ideas, lifelong memories, and a deeper sense of who you are as a creator. I highly recommend it to anyone ready to grow, be challenged, and experience Paris through a truly unique academic lens.

What was your funniest moment?
One of the highlights for me was the connection with local institutions like IRCAM, which provided a unique insider view into the Parisian contemporary music and art scene. However, I would have loved to see more opportunities to attend performances at the Paris Philharmonie or major exhibitions beyond IRCAM—these would have broadened our cultural exposure and enriched the learning experience.
Pros
  • Deep Artistic and Academic Immersion
  • Inspiring Faculty and Mentorship
  • Creative Environment in the Heart of Paris
Cons
  • Fast-Paced Schedule
  • Short One-on-One Lesson Time
  • Challenges with Shared Housing
Default avatar
Kaylin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CIEE in Monteverde

Studying abroad with CIEE in Monteverde was truly life-changing. The hands-on learning in the beautiful cloud forest was unforgettable and made every class feel exciting and real. The food was fresh, delicious, and a perfect way to experience local culture. The staff was incredibly kind, welcoming, and always ready to help or make us feel at home. I gained valuable real-world experience in sustainability and environmental studies while making lifelong friends from all over the world. If you want an immersive, adventurous, and meaningful study abroad experience, this program is absolutely for you!

What was your funniest moment?
One of the funniest moments was during our zip-lining trip, right before we started, one of the guides joked that it was his first day. We all got so nervous, but then he started laughing and we realized he was just messing with us. The whole staff was hilarious and kept the energy fun the entire time.
Pros
  • Wifi
  • Good
  • People
Cons
  • Bugs
  • Transportation
  • Secluded
Default avatar
Benjamin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An amazing time

This program taught me so much, CIEE has amazing teachers and well formulated curriculums. Plus, the accommodations, outings, and location make it even more great. The place you say is in a very safe and relaxed place.

Learning the public transportation system is daunting at first, but if you get off the unfamiliarity and follow the instructions on your phone, you will have no problem getting your way around the city. Also, if you are used to it, I recommend finding a cheap bike or skateboard on gumtree.uk (their version of craigslist), to cut costs on transportation.

Pack your own lunches, buy food from the grocery store because it is much cheaper than eating out. Plus, groceries are one of the only things cheaper in the UK than in the US.

Have an amazing time, I am sure you will.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Go on walks at night! You will see lots of beautiful orange foxes.
Pros
  • Community connection
  • applied learning
  • adventure
Cons
  • homesickness
  • lonesomeness
  • expensive city

Programs

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Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I have always wanted to go abroad, and CIEE was one of the programs at my school that fit perfectly during a change in my life, as well as being a more affordable option. Having the opportunity to spend the semester at a University in Scotland and taking Scottish history classes presented me with the perfect way to spend five months. It gave me the push I needed to go outside my comfort zone and do something truly amazing
 

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

CIEE was very hands-on with the onboarding process and had multiple calls to make sure I had all the proper documents for the university and was enrolling in classes that were good for me. They also provided me with kitchen necessities and bedding when I first arrived at my flat in Scotland. During my entire time there, they planned day trips and other events to help us get comfortable in new situations and help us understand Scotland and its people.
 

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Going abroad is a gratifying experience, but it is not easy. Spend time getting to know the country you're spending time in. Once you get there, try to make friends with people in your program or find local groups you can participate in. If you isolate yourself, it can get pretty lonely. Explore outside the city you're in and talk to anyone you can. The BIGGEST recommendation as well is to plan a budget and stick to it.
 

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

During the week, you'll go to your classes and sometimes to events the program has planned. The week changes depending on your class schedule. On the weekend, you are free to do whatever you wish. I did a lot of exploring and late nights on the town. Getting familiar with the transportation is essential, as you'll need to use it for university.
 

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

I had two biggest worries: I would have no friends and run out of money. I was scared that I would be too nervous to venture out and make new friends, so I had to really push out of my comfort zone and experience the awkwardness of meeting new people and who I got along with. I got involved in anything that I could. On the money aspect, it was really tricky because you can't work unless you're on a visa, and even then, you can't work more than 20hrs a week. Thankfully, my home university and CIEE helped me come up with a good budget plan that got me through my semester. Looking back, budgeting is super important, but at the same time, there are things I regret not doing because I was too worried about money. You only live once and you should live it as well as you can.
 
 

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Katherine MacColl

Job Title
Teach Abroad Senior Coordinator
Katy taught abroad for 4 years in Turkey and then in Thailand. She is dedicated to helping others experience all that teaching abroad has to offer.
Katherine MacColl

What is your favorite travel memory?

My favorite travel memory is from Myanmar. My friend and I did a guided hike through the countryside. We spent our nights above temples and the days wandering through another world. I remember being in awe of the differences, even between Thailand and Myanmar, and in the attitude of the people. They were the happiest people I had ever been around, even with the limited access they had to things that we feel that we "need".

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

CIEE has been a great place to work and has really motivated me to stay in the education industry. I love helping others and CIEE strives to give amazing customer service, always putting the teacher first. I have learned more about the process and how to best help others through it. I think, whatever you are doing in education, it is a place where there is always room to grow and continue to make an impact that has amazing ripple effects.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

The best stories are those when the students or teachers feel they have made an impact. However, maybe more than what we think we impact, the impact that others make on us is what truly inspires me. Travel and living abroad changes you, it demands growth and patience. Students that feel that impact from their students and communities reminds me why I love helping them get started.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

I would choose our program in Chile. Santiago is such an incredible city and the chance to work in a college setting has always been enticing to me. You are able to be the lead teacher and have amazing experiences to grow as a teacher and of a Spanish speaker. The program feels so tight knit, and you create an amazing group of friends right when you arrive.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

CIEE goes above and beyond to encourage education on all levels. The Teach Abroad programs gives people the knowledge and confidence to go abroad, changing their lives forever and being able to change others lives through teaching. We work to break down stereotypes and we are upfront and honest about the challenges that we all have to face when we go abroad, but we make sure that participants have the tools to overcome these.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

The biggest factor in being a successful company is to truly care. We all care about our participants and the experiences that await them. I hope that all of our participants feel like and feel connected to a great support system before and after their arrival in their new home. Without heart, what we do doesn't mean anything.

Professional Associations

The Forum on Education Abroad Logo
Gap Year Association Logo
NAFSA Logo