Study Abroad in Rabat
College Study Abroad
Explore Rabat, Morocco
Few cities in the world offer both the historic grandeur and modern comfort of Rabat. Situated on the Atlantic Coast, Rabat is Morocco’s historic capital and is home to a vibrant music scene, many prestigious international institutions, and a world-class culinary tradition. From the twisting alleys of the Old Medina to the sun-drenched steps of the historic Kasbah of the Oudayas, students who study abroad in Rabat have an unrivaled opportunity to live and learn in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When you study abroad in Rabat, you’ll experience Morocco’s unique blend of rich Islamic and French-colonial heritage, all while developing and polishing your Arabic and French language skills. Home to world-renowned museums, iconic landmarks, and warm hospitality, Rabat study abroad programs offer an unforgettable experience.
On a Rabat study abroad adventure, students may complete a full- or part-time internship, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including education, human rights, journalism, technology, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Study Tours & Cultural Excursions in Rabat
Guided by local experts and experienced CIEE staff, enjoy off-the-beaten path explorations through weekly co-curricular activities that get you outside of the classroom and using your language skills with local Moroccans.
Every Rabat study abroad semester program has frequent cultural excursions, as well as a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s curriculum and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Rabat, past study tours and excursions have included:
- Visits to the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the traditional souks of Rabat
- Guided tours through Rabat’s Old Medina and Kasbah, the ancient ruins of Chellah, and the Andalusian Gardens
- Workshops with local artisans, an international award-winning calligrapher, and vibrant gnawa musicians
- Hikes in the High Atlas Mountains with a visit to an Amazigh village in Ourika
- Day trips to the international city of Tangier and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
- Overnight excursions to Marrakesh and Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco
If you’re looking for an authentic journey through Morocco’s history, culture, language, and more, CIEE’s tours and excursions in Rabat allow you to do just that. Whether you want to meet local Moroccans, study different cultures in Morocco, or complete Arabic or French language programs, studying abroad in Rabat offers something for everyone.
About the Center
Located in the diverse and modern neighborhood of Agdal in central Rabat, CIEE Rabat is housed in a charming villa, featuring three main classrooms, a Moroccan-style social area, and a peaceful outdoor space. At the study center, students have complimentary Wi-Fi and printer access and can easily reach public transportation.
CIEE Rabat is only a few miles from the city's historic Hassan Tower and lovely Chellah gardens. Students will also find they can easily reach many affordable restaurants, cafés, shops, and Rabat's top landmarks.
Where Students Study
CIEE Rabat
CIEE Rabat is located in the modern neighborhood of Agdal in central Rabat with easy access to public transportation, green spaces, and restaurants and cafés.
Internships & Volunteering
Depending on their program of study and availability, students may be able to participate in an international internship or volunteer work. Students interested in interning abroad in Rabat may be able to gain experience in NGOs working with migrant populations, youth and disadvantaged persons to promote their wellbeing, and private institutions such as media and journalism and educational institutions, among others.
Students looking to volunteer in Rabat can work with the indigenous North-African Amazigh community, hospital patients, visually impaired students, youths with disabilities, women’s groups, or children from low-income families. Students may also be able to tutor Moroccan university students or meet with local Moroccans to practice their language skills.
Study Abroad Programs in Rabat
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Take your Arabic language skills to the next level in the enchanting city of Rabat.
- Language Immersion
- Small City
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
Explore Morocco’s rich history
- Small City
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Learn Arabic in an ancient city.
- ASU Courses
- Small City
Currency
Moroccan Dirham
Spoken Languages
Arabic, Tamazight, and French
Available Transportation
Tram, bus, taxis, feet
Climate
Humid, sunny, and clear summers (June to September) with highs around 80°F; cool and cloudy winters (December to March) with lows around 47°F
Places to Explore
11th-century Kasbah of the Udayas – a district of twisting colorful streets and hip cafes
Airport
Rabat-Sale Airport (RBA)
Social Norms
Every Friday, people across Morocco share couscous with their friends and family
What to Pack
Lose flowy clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, bathing suit, shirts that cover your shoulders
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of studying abroad in Rabat 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 Rabat 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?
Rabat is a good place to visit and study abroad because of its rich history, Moroccan culture, and opportunity to study Arabic or French. As Morocco’s second largest city, Rabat is home to several cherished museums, NGOs, stunning colonial architecture, and much more that students can explore.
Rabat has much to discover, from gardens and museums to historical sites and theaters. Popular attractions in Rabat include Hassan Tower, Kasbah des Oudayas, Royal Palace of Rabat, and Chellah.
Rabat is considered one of the safest cities in Morocco, but as with any new city, we encourage students to stay aware of their surroundings, keep their belongings secure, and travel in groups when possible.
Known best for hosting Morocco’s Royal Palace, Rabat is also known for its more relaxed, less crowded lifestyle as compared to Casablanca. As the official capital of Morocco, Rabat has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century, making it an exciting destination for students interested in learning Arabic or French, Moroccan history and culture, and more.
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 Rabat.
For more detailed information on diversity in Rabat, visit our Diversity in Rabat page.
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Rabat 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 Rabat. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Rabat 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.
Talk to a Student Who's Lived it...
Reach out to one of our Student Ambassadors to learn what CIEE Study Abroad is really like from alums who've lived it! Address any questions you may have about Rabat, from your academic interests and travel planning to housing and cultural differences.
Rabat Study Abroad Blog
Study Abroad Morocco: The Ultimate Guide
Interested in exploring rich historical sites, brushing up on your Arabic language skills, and enjoying the most delectable cuisine imaginable, all while earning credits toward your degree and deepening your... keep reading
Visiting the Largest Mosque in Africa!
This week, the students had some cultural activities that introduced them to Islam's influence and relevance to Moroccan culture, traditions and everyday life. On Monday, the students had a brief... keep reading
On Fridays, We Eat Couscous
Couscous is a traditional Moroccan dish, eaten on Fridays - the day of congregational prayer. Huge groups gather around one big table a eat the dish together, normally by hand... keep reading
