Why Study in Latin America?

Kick back & relax—you're going to have a great time abroad!

Where else can you visit the largest waterfall system in the world, three of the seven wonders of the modern world, countless UNESCO World Heritage sites, and some of the largest world-class cities? Welcome to Latin America. A region that offers up breathtaking landscapes, bustling capitals, ancient ruins, and natural wonders; Latin America can truly be a study abroad dream come true.

The variety of programs offered throughout this portion of the western hemisphere is as diverse as the region itself. Looking to immerse yourself in the local language? Want to develop career-forward skills with a service-learning experience? Are you a pre-med student who wants to boost your med school resume? Whatever your reasons are for going abroad, you’re bound to find a study abroad program in Latin America that works for you.

Above all else, it’s an affordable destination full of diversity and language immersion opportunities. Typically thought of as an off the beaten path study abroad location, the unique experience of studying abroad in Latin America is sure to set you apart from the rest of the crowd.

4 reasons to study abroad in Latin America

1. Affordability

Relatively low costs of living throughout the region tend to keep study abroad program prices affordable in Latin America. Everyday items and services like groceries, taxi rides, public transportation and dining out also tend to be more affordable here than in other regions of the world. Depending on where you’re flying from, you may be lucky enough to find cheap airfare. Some travelers also choose a program and destination where they can travel without a visa and the added costs that go with it. The less extra costs that you need to factor in, the more you can funnel your savings toward entertainment, weekend travel, and meaningful souvenirs. The triad of cheap program options, low cost of living, and affordable flights can help you get more bang for your hard-earned dollars while abroad.

[10 Cheapest Places to Study Abroad]

2. Diversity

Exposure to unique cultures is one of the many perks to Latin America study abroad.

Most Latin American populations trace their roots back to indigenous, European, African, and Asian origins, creating a diverse fusion of cultures. For example, in Brazil, you’ll see the influences of the largest African diaspora in the world in the cuisine, music, dance, and religions. Across the Andes, you may hear indigenous dialects of Quechua being spoken and see efforts to preserve the native cultures of the region. When studying abroad in the Americas, there’s no doubt that you’ll see evidence of the region’s multiculturalism.

In addition to cultural, ethnical, and linguistic diversity, Latin America also boasts geographical and biological diversity. In your free time you may just find yourself sandboarding in the desert, surfing in the Pacific, ziplining in the rainforest, skiing in the mountains, or camping at the base of a glacier. With so much diversity in one area, you never know what your next adventure may be.

3. Ideal for Language Learning

Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a Spanish major to come here—or to study Spanish in Latin America! Even if you’ve never studied a foreign language before, just being exposed to one of the most widely spoken languages in the world is a bonus of living in this region. If you’ve been wanting to try your hand at picking up Spanish, why not test it out abroad? In Latin America, you have 20 different Spanish-speaking countries where you can learn. Many locations offer courses or volunteer opportunities in English as well, so don’t be intimidated if you’re not familiar with the native language. Latin America is also known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, which is a plus if you haven’t quite mastered Spanish 101 but need to ask for help or directions.

Students who are studying Spanish or Portuguese often prefer this region for its immersive nature. If you’ve been studying one of these languages and are looking to take your skills to the next level, consider a program where you can live with a native family or take courses with locals. After being exposed to Spanish for an extended period, you’re bound to walk away with a whole new level of fluency and comprehension.

4. Set Yourself Apart

Let’s face it, Latin America may not be everyone’s automatic first choice when you think of study abroad. If you’re looking for something unique that satiates your need to explore, this region is for you. It’s not an easy decision to do something that goes against the grain, but just think about how much personal growth you can achieve by stepping a little outside of your comfort zone.

Edge out the competition by having more unique international experiences under your belt.

In such an immersive region, you’ll also walk away having learned some valuable life lessons and a broader understanding of the world. Although it may be challenging, you’re sure to stick out in from the crowd in your next interview if you can provide real-life examples of cross-cultural understanding.

If you’re looking to make valuable friendships, a fresh new Spanish accent, and countless unique memories part of your study abroad, Latin America may be the right choice for you.

Latin America study abroad FAQs

Where are the best places?

Your ideal destination will vary based on your study abroad goals. When picking a program, consider what courses you may need to take, what type of living experience you want, available excursions, or even your preferred geographical environment. If you’ve always wanted to live by the beach, consider studying at a university near the coast. If you’re an engineering major who needs to stick to a strict study plan, pick a university with ABET accreditation where you can take major-related courses in English! Your study abroad experience is truly a product of what you make of it, so choose your new home based on the factors that you need to thrive.

[Official Report: 10 Best Study Abroad Spots in the Americas This Year]

What courses should I take?

While some students choose to take general education classes overseas, others choose to stick to a schedule that will help them complete their major requirements on time. It’s up to you to choose courses that interest you most, whether that's psychology, education, business, or another subject that you want to explore. You should absolutely study Spanish in Latin America—now's your chance to level up your foreign language proficiency!

You may also want to consider taking a unique course that your home university may not offer. For example, if you’re studying in Cusco, you may want to consider taking a Quechua class. It can also be an eye-opening experience to take a class that allows you to see a new perspective of the world such as an international studies, political science, or gender studies course.

Is it safe?

You'll need to pack your street smarts, gringo, but programs will do everything they can to keep you safe.

Most study abroad providers choose their program locations based on several factors, including safety. If you’re unsure about a certain location, ask an advisor any safety questions that you may have! Of course, accidents can happen anywhere in the world, so be sure to practice common sense safety while abroad. Some programs even include 24/7 access to onsite staff in case of emergency, so you can rest easy knowing that you’re in good hands in case anything happens. You may also want to consider if your preferred program has access to an office on site where you can meet friends in your program, chat with the staff, or go to study. It’s important to create a support network while abroad and having a safe space to do so will help you make your new environment feel like home.

[How to Stay Safe While Studying Abroad]

When should I go?

If you’re currently enrolled in a university, talk to your academic advisors early on to find out what may be the best time for you to study abroad. Study abroad is a time to enrich your educational experience – not cause additional stress—so find out what you need to do to stay on track to meet any major requirements before you commit to a specific program.

Program lengths vary significantly. For instance, you can do a 2-4 week service learning study abroad program in Peru OR commit to an entire semester program in Colombia. Free next winter break? You'll love working on your tan in Costa Rica while knocking out some course credits. And of course, nothing screams summer like a trip abroad—maybe to study in Cuba this time?

When picking a time to go, don’t forget to consider the time of year! Remember, South America is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons there will be opposite. If you’re planning to spend your summer in Chile, be prepared to pack layers for cooler weather. Of course, you could always pick a destination known for its sunshine and warmth, like Medellín, which is nicknamed for its eternal spring-like weather.

[More Advice on Choosing When to Study in Latin America]

What’s this going to cost?

The cost will vary based on where you decide to go and which program you pick. When choosing the best program for you, think of the extra factors that you may need to budget for such as flight, visas, passport, and food. Another factor that will influence cost is how long you're planning on studying abroad in Latin America. A short term program, like ISA's summer study abroad opportunity in the Dominican Republic, will only cost you around $4,000. An entire academic year program will likely cost quite a bit more than that.

If you’re not too confident in your ability to stick to a budget while abroad, then you may want to consider a program that has more included in the package. For example, some programs include room and board in the cost, especially if you stay with a host family! Before deciding on your dream location, set a realistic budget for yourself. There are so many different types of programs out there, so consider different lengths, amenities, and locations. Don’t forget to research scholarship and funding opportunities too!

[Study Abroad Fees & What's Generally Included]

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Next stop: Studying abroad in Latin America!

There’s no time like the present to pursue your dreams. I’ve you’ve been fantasizing about mountain climbing, swimming with sea lions, checking Machu Picchu off your bucket list, or learning to dance bachata, it sounds like Latin America is a no-brainer for your next study abroad adventure.

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