Top 6 Mexico Study Abroad Programs

Picture yourself trading your college campus for the vibrant streets of Mérida, where every day is a new opportunity to explore Mexico’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. This city, nestled in the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable study abroad experience. Whether you're delving into Mayan archaeology, practicing your Spanish, or enjoying the lively local festivals, studying abroad in Mexico has it all.  

If you’re ready to take your studies beyond the classroom, let's dive right into our top six study abroad in Mexico programs! 

Best Study Abroad Mexico Programs 

Studying abroad in Mexico opens the door to an array of exceptional academic and cultural experiences. Our programs include options for January terms, summer sessions, and full semesters abroad! Whether you’re looking for a short-term adventure or a more immersive journey, each program is designed to blend rigorous coursework with the dynamic life of Mérida. From exploring ancient ruins to participating in local festivals, you'll have the opportunity to gain academic credits while living out your Mexican adventure. 

Featured Program #1: Liberal Arts 

Explore how traditions and modernity converge while advancing your degree and improving your Spanish language skills at Universidad Anahuac Mayab (UAM) and CIEE Yucatán. UAM is one of the top private universities in Mexico, offering a wide variety of courses in all areas of study, including biology, chemistry, communications, literature, engineering, psychology, mathematics, and more. Outside the classroom, your courses will be complemented by co-curricular activities and excursions beyond the city to enhance classroom learning and intercultural understanding! 

• Program Length: 19 weeks 
• Credit: 15-18 semester hours/22.5-27 quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA 
• Featured Excursion: Visit El Corchito and see the diverse flora and fauna of the region 

Read More: Study Abroad in Latin America: The Ultimate Guide 

Featured Program #2: January in Yucatán 

Envision yourself spending January immersed in the Yucatán Peninsula’s magnificent biodiversity and Latin America’s largest Mayan population. This three-week winter program is the perfect opportunity to develop your Spanish language proficiency while you discover the ancient Mayan civilization.   

• Program Length: 3 weeks 
• Credit: 3 semester hours/4.5 quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA 
• Featured Excursion: Explore Chichén Itzá and nearby Cenote Sagrado   

Featured Program #3: Open Campus Block 

Spend one, two, or up to three consecutive six-week blocks studying abroad in Mérida through our Open Campus Block program! You'll enroll in courses taught in English at CIEE Yucatán, where you'll be in the perfect place to advance academically, as Mérida hosts more than a dozen universities and several Mexican national research facilities. On top of this, you’ll be surrounded by biodiverse nature reserves, UNESCO archaeological sites, and historic towns that make the Yucatán Peninsula so treasured! 

• Program Length: 18 weeks 
• Credit: 6-7 per Block semester hours/9-10.5 per Block quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA 
• Featured Excursion: Tour the Yucatán Scientific Research Center’s (CICY) Botanical Garden, a green oasis home to more than 700 native species. 

Featured Program #4: Semester in Yucatán 

Experience a semester living and learning in Yucatán. Choose from a diverse range of subject areas, from environmental studies and STEM to communication and history. All courses are designed to complement the local culture, giving you a deeper understanding of the subjects through hands-on experiences and excursions. Practical learning extends to optional for-credit internships and volunteering opportunities, allowing you to contribute to local organizations and gain professional experience in your field of study. 

• Program Length: 19 weeks 
• Credit: 12-18 semester hours/18-27 quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA 
• Featured Excursion: Explore Punta Laguna and see the most unique sightseeing attractions in all of Yucatán: Spider monkeys 

Read More: 10 Best Study Abroad Programs in Latin America 

Best Study Abroad Mexico Summer Programs 

Get ready to supercharge your summer with our best Mexico study abroad programs! Trade your typical summer routine for sunny days exploring the Yucatán Peninsula’s ancient ruins and hidden cenotes. 

Featured Program #5: Summer STEM + Society 

Select one or two six-week blocks at any CIEE Open Campus Block location. Stay in Yucatán for both blocks or go mobile and spend your second block in Berlin, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dublin, Kyoto, London, Madrid, Monteverde, Paris, Rome, Santiago, Shanghai, Singapore, or Sydney.   

• Program Length: 6 weeks 
• Credit: 6-7 per Block semester hours/9-10.5 Block quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA 
• Featured Excursion: Take a boat ride over pink waters at Ria Celestun 

Featured Program #6: Summer in Yucatán 

Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, this exciting program offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural exploration set against the backdrop of Mérida’s stunning architecture and lively streets. You’ll take courses led by expert faculty across a wide range of subjects that will provide you with a comprehensive and interactive study of the Yucatán. 

• Program Length: 4 weeks 
• Credit: 3-4 per session semester hours/4.5-6 per session quarter hours 
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA 
• Featured Excursion: Visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya which offers a deep dive into the history and traditions of the Mayan people   

Read More: What are the Best Places to Study Abroad in Latin America? 

Which Mexico Study Abroad Program Will You Choose? 

Embarking on a Mexico study abroad program is more than just an academic opportunity, it’s a chance to dive headfirst into a country exploding with culture and natural beauty! With a range of programs to fit into your schedule, from summer sessions to full semesters, you’ll have the opportunity to explore everything Mérida has to offer while earning valuable credits. By immersing yourself in local traditions, engaging with diverse subjects, and making lifelong connections, you’ll not only enhance your education but also create cherished memories. 

So, take the leap, embrace the adventure, and let Mérida be the backdrop for your next great chapter! 

EXPLORE MEXICO PROGRAMS