We always hear it—“the world is your classroom,” “the world is your oyster”—but with CIEE, the world actually can be those things—OR whatever you would like it to be. Possibility is the name of their game, and since they offer programs for high school students, aspiring ESL teachers abroad, college kids, and more, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a college student, recent graduate, working professional, or somewhere totally off the charts. CIEE programs abroad will give you a new perspective on the world and life itself.
The best views in the world are from up above. Where will you explore with CIEE?
CIEE has been running programs for decades (since the late 1940s—it’s probably way older than your parents) and they’ve certainly picked up a thing or two along the way about how to run high-quality, safe, and impactful programs abroad. But which of the programs offer the BEST experiences for participants? What CIEE reviews really capture the spirit of the organization?
We’re here to help you trudge through all of those open tabs to more quickly zero-in on the the best CIEE programs out there (because we get it, picking a program abroad can be downright overwhelming). After sifting through dozens of CIEE program reviews, we’ve rounded up a short list of which experiences consistently meet or exceed participant expectations.
Meaningful travelers have spoken: here are the best CIEE programs + CIEE study abroad reviews of 2019 according to fellow globetrotters just like yourself.
Top rated CIEE reviews + programs on GoAbroad
1. Development and Globalization in Thailand—8 Reviews, 9.2 Rating
“This is an INTENSE but infinitely rewarding program. No where else will you get the experience to learn firsthand about the most pressing issues facing the planet around sustainability. The program creates incredible reciprocal relationships between many different village communities and students. It also provides priceless opportunities for personal growth, practicing teamwork, and hands-on projects." Read more reviews of this program here.
- What? Take classes in Asian Studies, Conflict Studies, Culture, Development Studies, Environmental Studies, Foreign Language, Humanities, International Relations, Sociology, Urban & Regional Planning
- When? Fall and Spring semesters
- Program perks: Take your included travel card and explore all over the Land of Smiles! With 24/7 support, apartment, group, or home-stay housing options, you’ll always have someone by your side. Dive into grassroots social and environmental movements while taking international experience to the next level.
- More program info
2. Communications, Business and Politics in Taiwan—2 Reviews, 9.5 Rating
“Great experience studying for one semester in Taipei Taiwan at NCCU with the CIEE-Taipei program. The students, locals, and staff were super friendly and patient with my speaking. NCCU offered many student-run excursions to experience local culture and customs. I met many local and international students during the excursions...Wishing everyone a pleasant stay in Taiwan when the chance comes.” Read more reviews of this program here.
- What? Take courses in Accounting, Anthropology, Business, Chinese Language, Communications,Computer Science & IT, Culture, Economics, Education, Finance, History, Independent Study, International Relations, Journalism & Broadcasting, Law, Literature, Management, Philosophy, Political Science & Politics, Psychology, Public Management, Statistics
- When? Academic Year, Fall, Spring
- Program perks: Even though the country is tiny, big adventures are sure to come your way with the wide variety of cultural excursions and included travel card benefits. After exploring as far as the eye can see, kick back in your choice of an apartment, dorm, group living, or home-stay housing.
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3. Science and Arts in Sweden— 2 Reviews, 10 Rating
“This CIEE program allowed me to truly experience Swedish culture and become a part of the Uppsala University student life, instead of just living as an exchange student in Sweden...You get the chance to live in student housing (home of the legendary Flogsta Scream) amongst both internationals and Swedes, where I met some of my best friends. Student life is exceptional here, with thirteen nations through which to go to balls, gasques (formal dinners with traditional drinking songs), and pubs, and to work and form lasting friendships with other students. The academics are definitely what you make them to be...I got the opportunity to challenge myself academically as well as culturally...Overall, it was a life-changing experience--three years later I am back in Sweden on a Fulbright Scholarship, and Sweden is like a second home to me.” Read more reviews of this program here.
What? Find a variety of classes, like Accounting, Anthropology, Architecture, Art & Fine Arts, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Communications, Computer Science & IT, Conflict Studies, Culture, Ecology, Economics, Education, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Ethnic Studies, European Studies, Finance, Government, Health Sciences, History, Information Systems, Languages & Linguistics, Literature, Management, Marketing, Advertising, & PR, Mathematics, Music, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science & Politics, Psychology, Religious Studies, Science, Sociology, TV & Media Production, Theology, Women's Studies
When? Academic Year, Fall, Spring
Program perks: With educational and cultural trips as your fingertips, as well as a CIEE card with travel benefits and insurance options included, the Scandinavian sky is the limit. Never worry no matter where you are with 24/7 support. So gain the international experience you have been searching for and immerse yourself in Swedish life
4. Summer Language and Culture in Spain—39 Reviews, 9.6 Rating
“I am so glad I chose to study with CIEE. The program was reasonably priced, and included lots of trips around Spain and to other countries. All of the trips were very well planned and organized. The classes were very interesting and included many field trips and just walking around the city. All of the teachers were so nice and I enjoyed learning from them. They were so helpful for practicing Spanish. All of the optional cultural activities were amazing as well. CIEE gave me the best summer in Seville I could have asked for!” Read more reviews of this program here.
- What? Sign up for courses in Culture, Economics, European Studies, Foreign Language, History, Literature, Political Science & Politics, Public Health, Social Sciences, Spanish
- When? Summer (late May to mid-August)
- Program perks: Thanks to CIEE Summer programs like this one, you’ll get the chance to gain experience during your “time off!” Further, tuition and housing are included in pricing, giving you ample time to productively experience the Spanish culture and learn/utilize the language. You’ll even get a travel card that includes insurance and travel benefits, as well as 24/7 support.
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5. Liberal Arts in Peru—3 Reviews, 10.0 Rating
“I was matched with a family who I now consider to be my real second family. I can't wait to see them again. I came to Peru with little to no Spanish instruction and gradually learned how to communicate to the level where I can understand almost everything in Spanish and can communicate well enough to become friends with a non-English speaker. To do this program, it is important that you are willing to be outgoing and sound silly sometimes. I have made many close American friends (in the program) and Peruvian friends during my semester and can honestly say that if I were to go back to Peru tomorrow, I would have many places to stay. The trips were great because Peru is such an amazing country from desert to jungle to mountains, every different scenery brought us a different culture to learn about. As cheesy as this sounds, whenever I think of my semester in Lima, I can not help but smiling. Thanks!” Read more reviews of this program here.
What? Take classes in Anthropology, Archaeology, Art & Fine Arts, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Communications, Computer Engineering, Culture, Economics, Education, Electrical Engineering, Geography, History, Journalism & Broadcasting, Languages & Linguistics, Latin American Studies, Literature, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Philosophy, Physics, Psychology, Sociology, Spanish
When? Academic, Fall, Spring
Program perks: Say ‘Hola” to an amazing intensive Spanish program, and really live the life as a local Peruvian. Take advantage of travel and tours in and outside of the city while living amongst local Peruvian language and culture.
6. Arts and Sciences in Australia—1 Review, 10.0 Rating
“Australia is one of those places that people often hear about, and associate with beaches and a laid back lifestyle. Well it is that, and SO much more! There is so much natural beauty, adventure, and a lot more diversity than I had originally imagined. The food is incredible, and people are absolutely warm and welcoming. CIEE Wollongong had a smooth and easy process prior to departure, upon arrival, and during the duration of stay. The advisers are beyond keen to help in any way they can, and are always trying to make the stay for students the best one possible. More than just advisers, they have become my friends and international connections, of whom I still keep in touch to date. As for the Uni and academic life, classes are run a bit differently than traditional US schools, but not in a bad way. What I loved most about the Wollongong program was the location. There are some of the most beautiful & non-crowded beaches just down the way, and hiking just down the other way on the beautiful mountain range. Everything is easily accessible via free bus or train.” Read more reviews of this program here.
- What? Accounting, Arts, Australian Studies, Biology, Biotechnology, Business, Chemistry, Communications, Computer Science & IT, Ecology, Economics, Education, Engineering, Environmental Studies, European Studies, Finance, Geography, Geology, Graphic Design, Health Sciences, History, Kinesiology & Exercise Science, Law, Management, Marine Biology, Marketing, Advertising, & PR, Music, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science & Politics, Psychology, Science, Sociology, Statistics, TV & Media Production, Technology, Theater
- When? Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Throughout the year
- Program perks: Living in the land down under has never been so exciting. With excursions around the country, and being able to study in so many different areas of interest, studying abroad in Australia will be sure to be one you won’t want to miss out on. With so many diverse living options and 24/7 support, find your niche and feel 100% secure about it!
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7. Summer Sustainability and Environment in Costa Rica—2 Reviews, 10.0 Rating
“I had not traveled outside the United States before and Costa Rica was the best place to begin. Not only did I feel safe, I enjoyed every moment I was there. The staff were truly amazing and I could not have asked for anything better. They really cared about the students and made sure we were learning and having fun at the same time. The course itself was a bit challenging but learning the material was fun and very informative. I learned a lot about subject we were studying and was able to bring that knowledge home with me and live a more sustainable lifestyle. I am happy that I study abroad and wouldn't change anything about it.” Read more reviews of this program here.
What? Environmental Studies, Sustainable Development
When? Summer
Program perks: Live ‘Pura Vida’ in beautiful Costa Rica. Lounge in your guest house or home-stay and enjoy the amazing culture around you. From international experience in your area of interest to hanging around with monkeys, you are sure to have an amazing time. Take full advantage of your CIEE card including insurance and travel benefits to get the most out of your time. Oh, and don’t forget to get involved with the grassroots environmental project!
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Which CIEE program fits YOU?
Wanderlust stricken? Why not check out CIEE study abroad programs?
“With so many options, how am I supposed to choose?!”, we’re sure you’re saying to yourself. Well, make sure you dive deep into each program description and the accompanying reviews to see what meets your wants and needs as a traveler, student, and most importantly, an individual.
With this list, we hope something strikes your interest, but just in case, you might also find value in clicking through the entire list of CIEE programs on offer. We’re sure you’ll find programs galore that’ll start a fire inside you. Now it’s your turn to take life by the horns and let some of the CIEE programs abroad have you saying, “Oh, the places I’ll go.” Adiós and good luck my fellow wanderers!
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