Study Abroad Programs in Havana, Cuba

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5 Havana, Cuba Study Abroad Programs
University Studies Abroad Consortium
4.6
10
The Havana program offers an unparalleled opportunity to visit an enchanting island and legendary city to learn about its culture and society. It also provides a unique occasion for understanding firsthand the multiple layers of history that make Cuba significant in North America and Latin America.
See All 2 ProgramsCorazon Cuba
4.5
22
Are you interested in learning Spanish? Study at our school/hostel in the heart of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take morning language lessons from Monday to Friday. In the afternoons, enjoy dance classes and cultural excursions. We also have weekend trips to the beach and a two-nigh
See All 2 ProgramsDon Quijote
0
0
Live "the Spanish way" while learning the language at Don Quijote. Our unique and immersive learning environment helps students reach their full language potential, inside and outside the classroom. We provide a range of courses for all skill levels based on individual needs. We achieve this by tak
How to Study Abroad in Havana
Program Options
Havana is the picture-perfect setting for a study abroad program, emboldening students to embrace the local lifestyle and soak in the surroundings almost effortlessly. When it comes to the most popular ways to study abroad in Havana, consider these options:
Popular subjects to study. Perhaps the most popular subject to while studying abroad in Havana is—yup, you guessed it—Spanish. Aside from studying Spanish abroad in Havana, other common areas of study include politics, international relations, and art history. International relations and politics can be incredibly eye opening for students due to the nation’s very unique political history. It can also provide students with a better understanding of how Havana became what it is today. On the other hand, courses in art and culture will introduce students to the Cuban people, help them understand the local way of life, and learn the techniques of past and present Cuban artists.
Short term/summer vs. long term programs. International students can study abroad in Havana almost any time of the year, though summer programs and spring break programs are especially popular. Long-term options, such as semester and even yearlong programs are available too for those who want the total immersive experience!
Attending universities vs. other program types. The obvious route when deciding where specifically to study abroad in Cuba is to go the university route, however, there are many other options to consider. Other program and institution types, such as language schools and private programs and tutors, are available as well. No matter where you choose, many study abroad programs in Havana factor in plenty of field trips, such as tours of rum factories, beach escapes, salsa classes, and walking tours to give you plenty opportunities to practice your español outside the classroom walls.
Student Life
You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to filling up your spare time in Havana. During your study abroad in Cuba, hop on a guagua or ride in style in an almendron and experience what brings Havana to life. No matter what you do, you will be Havan-a good time!
The daytime hours in Havana can be easily exhausted admiring the tangible history oozing out of every nook and cranny in the city. Check out an exhibition at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, catch a show at the Gran Teatro, or take a stroll around the Hemingway Marina. You’ll find plenty of extra-credit materials to supplement your studies in Havana.
When evening strikes, head to the restaurant district to get a taste of the sizzling Cuban culinary scene and swig down a cortadito (the OG of energy drinks) so you can keep up with the vivacious Havana nightlife. Watch the sunset along the Malecón, enjoy midnight martinis in the underground jazz cafes, and salsa your heart out at La Casa de la Musica. After working up an appetite dancing the night away, feed that rumba-ly in your tumbly with some melt-in-your-mouth ropa vieja or yuca con mojo.
Travel Tips
Even if you know a little español, Cuban Spanish is not what you took in high school. Cuban Spanish sounds like it is sipping on a mojito and has a permanent cigar wedged in the corner of its mouth. Whether it’s laziness or efficiency, syllables often get dropped and the only time you’ll hear a “D” is when you’re singing the alphabet. On top of that, there’s almost as much slang peppered into conversation as there are real words. ¡Ay, caramba!
Don’t let the mesmerizing colors, tropical drinks, and sublime beaches lull you into thinking that studying abroad in Havana will be an all-inclusive resort vacation. Of course there will be time for fun, but keep in mind that you will be in a different domain where normal daily happenings are more tightly regulated than you’re used to. Say adios to Western certainties and prepare to expect the unexpected during study abroad in Cuba.
If you’re ready to get serious about integrating your street smarts with your book smarts, listen as Havana is calling your nombre. Havana is a city of indefinable magic and it’s time to marinate yourself in the zest of it and let it seep into your soul. The world is literally your classroom when you opt to study abroad in Havana!
For even more information, read our comprehensive guide on study abroad in Cuba.
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Latest Program Reviews
Great language school
June 04, 2026by: Ulrich Lemke - GermanyProgram: Learn Spanish in Old Havana, Cuba
Learning Spanish with a view of Old Havana is a unique experience. Due to the U.S. oil embargo, there were only about 8 students on average at the language school, and we all had one-on-one lessons. My lessons with Pablo always took place on the rooftop terrace. I learned a lot about Cuba, its people, and the country itself, and I significantly improved my Spanish. Breakfast and lunch were served in a small dining room. My wife and I had a clean room in a casa particular 500 meters from the language school. A highly recommended language school with very friendly staff and teachers.

Cuba, For Real
April 17, 2025by: Elizabeth Gomez - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
Thank you to University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) for this opportunity to have neurosurgeon Dr. Abel and neuroanesthesiologist Dr. Armando as my professors for such a unique experience. With students from all over the US, I was able to visit: - a polyclinic - a geriatric care home - a maternity care home - a family doctor clinic - a pharmacy - one of the original science academies of Cuba (now a museum) - so many other places! Having been able to interact with a variety clients, patients, and health care professionals has made this one of the most fruitful classes l've ever taken.

Learned so much more outside of the classroom!
January 17, 2025by: William Cunningham - United StatesProgram: USAC Comparative Studies: Uruguay and Cuba Summer Session
This was an experience of a lifetime and USAC did an amazing job with providing me the perfect amount of guidance and freedom to learn about the culture, language, food, etc. I enjoyed being able to compare and contrast Cuba and Uruguay and think this program is once and a lifetime. I learned so much about myself and gained a whole new perspective on life. Definitely recommend this trip to anyone who wants to experience the vastness of Latin American culture.
Best three weeks of my LIFE!
November 21, 2024by: Ana Partridge - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
Studying abroad in Cuba was the most unique experience I've ever had and I learned more in those three weeks than I feel like I've learned in all of college. You grow so much as a person but also academically and professionally and the chance to explore a country that few get to travel to was absolutely mind-blowing. I'm so grateful that I got over my fears and the financial worries and decided to go to Cuba! Best decision of my life, no competition.

Great Experience!
August 12, 2024by: Janine Heide - GermanyProgram: Learn Spanish in Old Havana, Cuba
I searched for a language school and I found Corazon Cuba. The booking was very easy and Tim Patterson told me everything about the price and sent the detailed program. I arrived later then I should in Cuba, because me plane was late. A Taxi was waiting for me with my name on a sign and brought me to my apartment. The living situation is in the middle of Havanna. In the night I had the opportunity to change money and to buy some water. At the next morning Carlos brought me to the school. After an introduction and made a test for my language skills. My teacher was Laritza and I was with her for the next 5 days. The learning situation is outside on the terraces of the school, which is new to Euopeans, but it was very nice. Also all the people from the school were nice and helpful. I loved being there and i am sure, that I will come back:) Thank you for everything.
Dreaming of Cuba
July 17, 2024by: Nancy Jacobs - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
It has been one semester since I did my winter travel abroad to Cuba and I miss it so much! My experience there was wonderful and I am constantly using something I learned, whether it is how I'm making my coffee these days or my global perspective on current events. USAC made it so easy. Being a non-Spanish speaker, I was realistically afraid. Yet, the Cuban people welcomed me and my poor attempts at Spanish. My favorite part was walking and exploring neighborhoods and restaurants. I felt very safe there. USAC arranged an abundance of activities for us including rides in classic cars, a Cuban ballet and museum visits. I learned so much. I regret not staying longer. I dream of one day returning to La Habana!

Half of my heart is in Havana
April 17, 2024by: Eden Adcock - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
My study abroad experience as the first group to ever take the trip to Havana was amazing. Learning about the culture of Cuba and its history while also living in the heart of the community was perfect. USAC went above and beyond to care for and support all students, and even got a cake to celebrate my birthday! I had an unforgettable time that I would not trade for the world. The memories I made and knowledge I gained are pivotal to my college experience.

Cool place with cool people
January 08, 2024by: Richard Russell - United StatesI loved the trip I will go back maybe this year So much fun People are so nice I had so much fun A place that you will enjoy A safe place in a poor city Teaches host and everyone are so cool I met a lot of nice people and that makes the place even better
Challenging in all the best ways
December 13, 2019by: Sarah Oakes - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
I caught strep throat on my way to Cuba. By my second day there, the pain was excruciating and I had to go to the clinic- terrifying for my second day in a foreign country. My program director took me and I was okay. They gave me an antibiotic... which I then had an allergic reaction to. Back to the clinic. My trip was plagued with medical issues and not knowing what was going on with my body. In Cuba, cell phone service is rare, so I couldn't Google or WebMD my symptoms at the drop of a hat like at home in the US. I couldn't call my mom to get soothing pep talks. I had to rely on the people around me, the community of students and professionals, as well as my own wits. That experience was tough. It wasn't always fun (but a lot of the time it was). Through my challenges I was strengthened, and I learned that I can overcome really tough obstacles- even when I'm scared. I'll always remember the lessons I learned in Cuba. Not just the lessons of personal strength, but of social justice, history, economic justice, and politics as well. I had great teachers, amazing USAC staff, and I met some great friends. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
An unforgettable experience
December 11, 2019by: Schade - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
The USAC La Habana program was absolutely incredible. Even though this was my first time out of the US and I knew only rudimentary Spanish, I found the program to be very helpful at making me feel comfortable while in Cuba. The home-stay meets bed and breakfast style accommodations (Casa Particulares) a few blocks away from the school helped me immerse myself and made me feel like a resident, not a tourist. The course I took was very similar to one I might have taken back in the States but with less homework and lots of highly relevant field trips. Although I didn't come back a fluent Spanish speaker, I made life-long friends and will forever cherish my time abroad.
I am always ready for any situation
March 22, 2019by: Frida NS Shihepununeni - NamibiaProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
Being adapted to every where you go is the best thing in my life experiences no matter what you are always ready for any situation you don't look behind or think too much about unnecessary things. Being friendly and meet different people from different countries and tribes is the best thing you won't feel lonely you are always feel there are caring people around you. .It's good to be on your own not depend on others when it comes to personal things you need to believe in your self and don't let anyone to influence you when it comes to bad behaviours. Choose the right friend not just a friend because you don't want to be a loan select a friend who can influence in good manners. And always remember why you're at that place..always work hard to make your dream come true and to be some one important in your community
3 years later and I can't stop talking about it - Life changing
November 14, 2018by: Brianne Frank - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
I studied in Cuba about 3 years ago now and I still can't stop telling everyone I meet about how amazing Cuba was and totally contrary to popular belief. The Cuban people were all very nice. Despite Havana being a city, the people acted as if they were from a small town. I felt completely safe mostly due to the severe laws in Cuba that protect tourists (30 years for stealing from a tourist). With that being said, I rarely ventured off on my own and I definitely was very cognizant of where I was and my surroundings. The accommodations were great. I ended up in an apartment with other students while some others ended up in home-stays. Luck of the draw really. Some had hot water all day. Some only had hot water in the morning. Overall, the accommodations were fine. Last advice is to bring hot sauce and great attitude.
Loved experiencing Cuba with USAC
October 12, 2017by: haleyjovan - United StatesProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
Going to Cuba is a unique experience for Americans and I thought USAC did a great job of offering an educational and fun program for American students. My home stay family was well chosen, the tours were meaningful, and the leaders were amazing.It is a structured program, but you also get free time to explore your host city as well. I would recommend USAC to any college student looking for a study abroad experience.
Summer 2015
March 02, 2016by: Anna - Pacific NorthwestProgram: USAC Cuba: La Habana - Cuban History, Society, & Politics
This program was amazing! Everything from the optional tour to our stay in Habana was very well coordinated and organized. We were given an adequate amount of freedom, but also assistance and guidance when necessary. I felt safe the entire stay and the USAC staff were all incredibly helpful and friendly. I cannot say enough good things about this program and would recommend it to any and every student!
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