Study Abroad Programs in Central America

If embarking on tropical excursions, exploring natural wonders, and experiencing a rich and interesting culture are what you’re looking for in a study abroad program, then look no further than the beautiful isthmus of Central America. For years, this small, North American subcontinent has been overlooked as a destination for tourists and students, but nowadays, it is quickly emerging as a new hotspot for travel.

Its many volcanoes, mountains, and rain forests, its miles of coastline, and its incredible historical landmarks make Central America a wonderful place for students to merge education with adventure. Every day there are more opportunities available for those looking to expand their horizons and immerse themselves in a culture totally different from their own.

You'll have many different options when it comes to studying abroad in Central America. Whether you're constrained by time or have a specific area you'd like to study, you'll find a program you're sure to love!

Spanish Immersion Programs

If you really want to learn the language and the culture in Central America, consider a Spanish immersion program. You'll have better results in your learning, but it will definitely be more difficult. When there aren't many English speakers around, you'll have to start thinking in Spanish. Plus, you can go where ever you like -- these types of programs are all over Central America.

That said, Costa Rica is a popular destination for beginner Spanish speakers.

Ecology / Conservation Programs

Conservation and ecology programs are fantastic for students who want the opportunity to learn about the efects of globalization while making a difference. Students can help sustain environments damaged by the demands of the tourism industry and other negative impacts. If you have an interest in biodiversity and studying conservation or ecology, Central America is the perfect place to learn.

Direct Enrollment

Direct enrollment means enrolling at a Central American university like you would your home university. This will make it easier for you to gain credits toward graduating, and you can earn scholarships to help you cover the cost of tuition. Direct enrollment will take a little more planning, but it tends to be cheaper and you'll have much more control over your study abroad experience in Central America.

Service Learning Programs

Want to volunteer while learning at the same time? Then consider a service learning program. Your time will be divided between community service projects and time in the classroom. From community development to education, there's a wide variety of fields with service learning projects. Some may require a basic level of Spanish, but not all.

Summer Programs

If you don't have time for a program during the school year, don't worry! You can participate in a summer program. Often, summer programs may involve a combination of educational travel and faculty-led sessions or intensive courses at a local university or institute. Whether you focus on learning Spanish or take a few credits at one of the universities, you're sure to have a fulfilling summer.

Regions

Central America is the narrow strip of land that bridges the gap between the continents of North and South America. Most Central American countries boast warm, tropical climates abound with everything from mountains and volcanoes to oceans and rivers. It is home to some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, housing more than 20,000 different species of plants and animals and accounting for more than 7% of the world’s biodiversity. In fact, most of Central America is part of the Mesoamerican Biodiversity Hotspot, which spans from central Mexico down to the Panama Canal.

Major Universities in Central America

It hasn’t been until recently that universities in Central American have been getting much notice. Many of these nations have struggled fiercely with poverty and insufficient access to education over the years, and many still continue to today. But as the economic and political situations of Central America have stabilized, so has the education system. Both the Universidad de Costa Rica and Universidad Nacional Costa Rica are popular and well-regarded universities. This is due, in part, to the booming tourist industry in Costa Rica and an increase in skilled labor positions.

Many foreign universities in the United States and Europe have begun offering school-sanctioned study abroad programs with universities in Central America. Check with your universities international studies or study abroad department to get more information about the available programs at your school.

Central America is an exciting place to study abroad. It offers students an opportunity to experience a fascinating new culture and surround themselves with breathtaking sights, all while enriching their academic studies. For the adventurous spirit, Central America is the ideal study abroad destination. With no lack of natural wonders and ancient ruins abound, students can embark on a journey like no other.

Cost of Living

Compared to the more affluent regions of the world, the cost of living in Central American nations is relatively low. Depending on which country you are looking to study in, one could expect to easily spend less than $900 USD per month (not including educational costs). Of course, this figure can vary based on how much you intend to travel or go out for meals or entertainment. If need be, it can be quite easy to live on a tight budget in Central America.

Belize is perhaps the most expensive Central American country to live in, where you can end up spending over $1,000 USD per month. The country with the lowest cost of living would be Nicaragua, where one could live quite well on around $600 USD per month. The other five nations of Central America fall somewhere in between. Always keep in mind that these figures depend heavily on your lifestyle.

Scholarships for Study in Central America

While studying in Central America may be more affordable than in many other regions of the world, studying abroad can still be expensive. Fortunately there are a multitude of scholarships available to help alleviate the financial pressure of studying overseas.

• The Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship is a great source of funding for international studies.
• Rotary is a large organization that offers scholarships for studying in various countries, including those in Central America.
• Similarly, National Security Education Program/Boren Scholarships site is another popular scholarship option.
• More Study Abroad Grants and Scholarships