5 Reasons to Study Abroad in San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Want memories that will last a lifetime? Take a look at Puerto Rico study abroad programs!
Between stunning beaches, colonial architecture, and a diverse culinary scene, San Juan is the perfect place to immerse yourself in history, events, and outdoor adventures while receiving an enviable global education.
Let’s take a closer look at what Puerto Rico study abroad can offer you!
Why Study Abroad in San Juan
With San Juan being Puerto Rico’s capital and largest city, it’s popular with college students. In 2022, there were more than 50,000 students studying in the area!
Whether you're considering a science-based program or want to enroll in an international internship, San Juan provides many options to suit your preferences and interests. You may also want to know that:
- San Juan is a lively city, with plenty of museums, galleries, and performances showcasing Puerto Rican history and contemporary creativity
- The city is a hub for both local and international students, providing an enriching and diverse environment for cultural exchange and building global connections
- It’s the oldest European-established city in the U.S., with a rich colonial history and stunning architecture dating back to the 16th century
- San Juan is easily walkable, with charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes exploring on foot enjoyable
- The city is surrounded by stunning beaches, providing the perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy water sports, or explore vibrant coastal ecosystems during your study abroad experience
Keep reading to discover the five major reasons why you should study abroad in San Juan.
Reason #1: It’s Still in the U.S.
Haven’t been far from home before? No worries! Puerto Rico is a United States territory, meaning you don’t even need a passport to travel there.
And most residents are bi-lingual, speaking both English and Spanish throughout the island, making it easy to navigate the city, communicate with locals, and practice your Spanish language skills.
Reason #2: You Can Enjoy the Outdoors
Don’t like being stuck indoors all the time? In San Juan, we wouldn’t blame you. From simple walks to all sorts of water activities, you’re sure to find a hobby that makes you happy.
When you study abroad in San Juan, look into experiences like:
- Rainforest adventures, featuring waterfalls, natural waterslides, rope swings, and cliff jumping
- Water sports, like kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding
- ATV tours, where you can explore the island's rugged terrain
- Hiking, with plenty of trails for nature enthusiasts to explore
- Horseback riding, with guided tours available for all skill levels
- Beaches, where you can soak up the sun
- Cave exploration, where you can discover massive underground caves and unique stalactites and stalagmites
- Snorkeling with bioluminescent organisms, a magical experience where you can witness glowing waters at night
And much more! From fishing trips to bike tours to strolling through botanical gardens, San Juan study abroad invites you to take advantage of the city’s incredible natural environment.
Reason #3: It Has a Great Social Scene
Are you an extrovert who’s always looking to meet new people and hear good music? San Juan is perfect for you. That’s because whether you're looking for a casual beachside bar or a trendy nightclub, there's something for everyone.
San Juan hosts festivals and events throughout the year, such as the San Sebastian Street Festival and the Puerto Rico Rum Festival. They're fantastic opportunities for students to experience local culture and meet new people.
Plus, the public transportation system is easy to use, and many activities are affordable, giving you no excuse to miss a night out.
Reason #4: Try All the Dishes You’re Offered
San Juan is incredibly diverse, with Latin American, Spanish, and African influences that inspire the cuisine.
Throughout the city, you’ll find every opportunity to enjoy mouthwatering dishes like:
- Arroz con Gandules: A traditional Puerto Rican rice dish cooked with pigeon peas, seasoned with sofrito, and often paired with roasted pork or chicken
- Sancocho: A hearty, flavorful stew made with various meats (like pork, beef, or chicken), vegetables, and root vegetables, typically served with rice
- Pastelón: A savory Puerto Rican lasagna made with layers of sweet plantains, ground beef, and cheese, baked to perfection.
- Tostones: Twice-fried green plantains, typically served as a side dish or snack, with garlic dipping sauce
- Mofongo: A classic Puerto Rican dish made of mashed plantains, garlic, and pork cracklings, often served with seafood, chicken, or beef
The city also features a wide range of restaurants, from casual spots serving local favorites like croquetas (deep-fried rolls filled with sauce and ham), to upscale dining establishments featuring global flavors.
Read More: Eat, Drink, Explore: San Juan
Reason #5: The Part Where You Study Abroad in San Juan
Don’t forget that you have classes while you’re in Puerto Rico! Be sure to sign up for unique offerings that you won’t find at home, like studying Puerto Rico’s approach to ecology, sustainability, the arts, or even enrolling in an international internship at a local Puerto Rican company.
Keep reading to explore the study abroad programs you can choose from in San Juan through CIEE Study Abroad!
Find a San Juan Study Abroad Program
Choose from several options for work and study abroad in Puerto Rico:
- Business + Culture: Immerse yourself in San Juan’s social and economic culture while taking business-focused courses and enrolling in an optional part-time internship in Puerto Rico’s dynamic economy
- Ecology + Sustainability: Address some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges in a local context through a combination of sustainability- and discipline-focused courses
- Engineering, Technology + Sciences: Learn how San Juan approaches engineering, technology, and science in integrated coursework with real-world applications
- Global Internship: Gain industry experience in one of San Juan’s international workplaces with a full-time internship
- Intern + Study Abroad: Earn credit and real-world Puerto Rican work experience with a part-time internship and part-time coursework
- Liberal Arts: Designed for skilled language learners, this highly immersive program allows you to enroll in courses that align with your major in the Spanish language
- Semester in San Juan: Sign up for the traditional study abroad journey and enroll in courses across a broad range of subjects while immersing yourself in Puerto Rican culture
No matter which program you choose, you can’t go wrong!
Take Your Studies to San Juan
There’s so much to see and do in study abroad programs in Puerto Rico. From vibrant cultural experiences to stunning natural beauty, a San Juan college study abroad experience offers the perfect blend of academics and adventure. Get ready to study abroad – and in the U.S. – and make unforgettable memories!