Study Abroad in Gaborone
College Study Abroad
Explore Gaborone, Botswana
Welcome to Gaborone study abroad, situated in the vibrant, laid-back heart of Botswana! As the country’s economic, political, and cultural capital, Gaborone offers the perfect balance of urban life and natural beauty. Home to two amazing game reserves, you’ll get to experience the thrill of Africa’s diverse and incredible wildlife while enjoying a peaceful, relaxed lifestyle. It’s the ideal spot for study abroad students seeking an unforgettable adventure without the hustle and bustle of a big city.
Studying abroad in Gaborone offers an exciting opportunity to dive into the heart of Botswana’s rich culture while earning academic credits in important subjects like community public health, wildlife conservation, arts and sciences, and wildlife ecology. Outside the classroom, explore popular wildlife reserves like Mokolodi and the Gaborone Game Reserve, where you can spot rhinos, giraffes, and zebras up close. Immerse yourself in Tswana culture through traditional music, food, dance, and festivals, or discover the secrets of local arts and crafts. No matter which Gaborone study abroad program you choose, this unique environment offers a front-row seat to the best of Botswana – all in a laid-back, student-friendly setting. From visiting museums to enjoying a sunset by the Gaborone Dam, there’s always something thrilling to do!
Imagine studying public health while experiencing Botswana’s rich culture and making a lasting impact on local communities by conducting community needs assessments, observing in local clinics and organizing health fairs. Picture yourself in the heart of the African wilderness, working hands-on with wildlife conservation projects in nearby game reserves, all while learning about the delicate balance of nature. And if you're into arts and sciences, Gaborone offers a dynamic blend of traditional Tswana culture and modern innovation, making it the perfect place for creative minds and curious researchers.
While abroad, arts and sciences students have the option to complete a part-time internship in Gaborone, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including health, development, ecology, marketing, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience. With breathtaking landscapes, exciting wildlife, and a welcoming atmosphere, Gaborone study abroad is where learning meets adventure!
Study Tours & Cultural Excursions in Gaborone
Every CIEE semester program has frequent cultural excursions, and a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Gaborone, past study tours and excursions have included:
- Trips to the National Museum and Khama Rhino Sanctuary
- Travel to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve to engage in face-to-face discussion with villagers on issues of human wildlife conflict
- Excursions to a cultural village and the Mokolodi Nature Reserve
- Visits to villages to discover public health challenges faced in rural settings
If you’re a student interested in studying diverse ecosystems, exploring public health conflicts facing the region, or learning more about Botswana’s history and culture, CIEE’s tours and excursions help you do just that!
About the Center
CIEE Gaborone is located inside the University of Botswana, the first higher education institution established in the country and CIEE's renowned partner institution. On campus, students will find a gym easily accessible with their ID, computer labs, Wi-Fi access, and affordable cafés nearby.
The campus is conveniently located within walking distance of Riverwalk Mall – one of the oldest shopping centers in Botswana – where students will find a movie theatre, plenty of restaurants, and shops where they can purchase traditional clothing, shoes, and souvenirs.
Where Students Study
CIEE Botswana
CIEE Botswana is located on the University of Botswana campus within the southeast district of the city.
University of Botswana (UB)
Established in 1982, the university strives to improve economic and social conditions for the nation, while advancing as an African university with a regional and international outlook. With 15,000 students and a staff of more than 2,000, the university is committed to academic freedom and integrity, cultural authenticity, and internationalism.
Internships & Volunteering
Depending on their program of study and availability, students may be able to participate in an international internship or volunteer work abroad. Students looking to intern in Gaborone can intern at a community-based organization, such as the Mokolodi Nature Reserve, Nkaikela Youth Group (NYG), Baylor Children Clinical Center, Ditshwanelo Botswana Center for Human Rights, or a local business. Students interested in volunteer work in Gaborone can donate their time and energy to an environmental organization, an orphanage, an education center for children with special needs, a soup kitchen, a game reserve, or a women’s shelter.
Gaborone Study Abroad Programs
- Gaborone, Botswana
- Study Program
Spend the summer exploring health issues in one of Africa’s most vital healthcare systems.
- Small City
- Gaborone, Botswana
- Study Program
Explore Botswana’s amazing wildlife as a compelling example for sustainable wildlife management, species protection, ecology, and behavior.
- Small City
- Volunteering
- Gaborone, Botswana
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Gaborone – or Gab as it’s locally known – is a fine place to connect with the people of Botswana.
- ASU Courses
- Host Institution
- Small City
- Volunteering
- Gaborone, Botswana
- Study Program
Botswana is an ideal place to explore
- ASU Courses
- Host Institution
- Small City
- Volunteering
- Study Program
Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, this exciting study abroad program is the right fit for students who want to immerse themselves in Botswana’s stunning landscapes.
- ASU Courses
- Small City
Currency
Pula
Spoken Languages
Setswana, English, Kalanga
Available Transportation
Minivans
Famous Local
Kgosi Gaborone, Motswana chief
Climate
Semi-arid climate
Places to Explore
Mokolodi Nature Reserve – private game reserve with reptile park, crocodile pond, permaculture garden, and animal sanctuary
Airport
Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE)
Social Norms
Hunting wildebeest in November or December is believed to cause the harvest to fail
What to Pack
Backpack, comfortable shoes, Setswana/English dictionary, sunscreen, insect repellent
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of studying abroad in Gaborone varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Gaborone study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
With roughly 10% of Botswana’s total population living in this city, Gaborone is a good place to study abroad for students interested in public health, environmental science, economics, media studies, and more. Whether you want to study wildlife in Botswana, volunteer in the local community, or learn about Tswana culture, studying abroad in Gaborone offers something that every student can enjoy.
Gaborone is located in Botswana, which is known to be one of Africa’s most stable, safe countries. As with any study abroad destination, we recommend that students keep their belongings safe, stay aware of their surroundings, and travel in groups when possible.
Located about 9 miles from the South African border, Gaborone offers students a one-of-a-kind experience living abroad in Botswana. From public health issues and environmental conservation to biodiversity and economic development, Gaborone is one of Africa’s fastest growing cities that students are sure to enjoy.
Life in Gaborone, Botswana is generally regarded as vibrant with a small-town feel that blends Tswana and African cultures with a western way of life. While Gaborone is the capital city of Botswana, it’s known to have a relaxed lifestyle with friendly people, a pristine landscape, and lush biodiversity.
In order to ensure our students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered while studying abroad, CIEE staff completes comprehensive diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) training. Staff provide students with advice, resources, and ongoing support both before and during their study abroad program in Gaborone.
For more detailed information on diversity in Gaborone, visit our Diversity in Gaborone page.
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Gaborone with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!
Search our internship opportunities to get started!
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Gaborone. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Gaborone to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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