Study Abroad Programs in Peru
Spanish majors hoping to begin or perfect their language skills often choose Peru for their study abroad experience. Peruvians are friendly, easy to understand, and take pride in one of the best cuisines in the world. Year-round, the weather in Peru is temperate and very agreeable. Located a few hours south of the equator, the country offers many cultural opportunities. With the Amazon in the east, Machu Picchu in the center, and Lake Titicaca in the south, it is impossible to be bored in Peru.
Deciding where to call your Peruvian home is a difficult decision. To give you an idea of what's possible, here's a list of Peru's most popular cities.
Lima: The capital of Peru has the largest number of universities and is home to the highest population in the country. The most popular school is nicknamed “La Católica,” however its official name is Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú. Known for programs in humanities, social sciences, Spanish language, education, business, art, and natural sciences, it even boasts many famous graduates, including the current President of Peru, Ollanta Humala. With over 17,000 undergraduate students from around the world, and 8 million residents in Lima itself, there are many opportunities to make new friends and enjoy this coastal city.
Cuzco: As the gateway city to Machu Picchu, Cuzco provides a unique cultural experience for anyone interested in studying abroad. Established in 1692, the Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cuzco is Cuzco’s oldest University and offers a variety programs including architecture, tourism, history, anthropology, biology, economics, and Spanish. Surrounded by rich Incan history and Andean mountains, students can spend their free time exploring the magic and mystery of this UNESCO heritage site.
Arequipa: The second largest city in Peru is commonly referred to as La Ciudad Blanca (The White City). Due to its proximity to the volcano El Misti, most of the buildings in Arequipa are built from, sillar, a white volcanic rock. Universidad Nacional de San Agustin de Arequipa is a public university with programs in biomedicine, engineering, business and social sciences. Located near the famous Colca Canyon, Arequipa is a great location for study abroad students interested in outdoor activities.
Although specific grants and scholarships may be offered from the home university or study abroad program, there are a variety of national scholarships available including:
- Boren Scholarship - Up to $20,000 is awarded to undergraduate students studying abroad in critical interest areas throughout the world.
- Gillman Scholarships - U.S. undergrad students receiving a Federal Pell Grant are eligible to receive up to $5,000 towards their study abroad program.
- More Study Abroad Grants and Scholarships
