Culture Study Abroad Programs

Filter Results

Featured Provider of the Month
with Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
1025 Culture Study Abroad Programs
MAXIMO NIVEL
4.67
723
Live and study in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Maximo Nivel offers the most intensive and professional Spanish Immersion program in Latin America. Learn Spanish on-site across 4 modern campuses in 3 of the most beautiful countries, or join online from anywhere in the world! Led by an experien
See All 3 ProgramsCIEE College Study Abroad
4.52
48
Your Liberal Arts program in Seville lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds who have Spanish language skills. You will enroll in CIEE courses and host institution courses delivered in Spanish. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular
See All 250 ProgramsAdelante Abroad
4.17
18
Expand your research knowledge and skills over a summer in Scotland. The city features a fascinating blend of Old and New Towns with luscious gardens and historic buildings. Explore the Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill on the weekends. Our one-of-a-kind programs allow you to grow your work foundatio
See All 3 ProgramsArcos Learning Abroad
4.81
31
Experience Lima, Peru, one of South America’s most vibrant capital cities. Situated on the Pacific coast, Lima is a city of fascinating contrasts. Many academic topics can be explored at this Arcos destination. Lima is rich in its colonial heritage and per-Hispanic past yet possesses a modern vibran
See All 3 ProgramsAFS-USA
4
1
New Zealand's two islands are divided by Cook Strait. The North Island boasts volcanoes, hot springs, mud pools, geysers, and beaches, while the South Island has rugged Alpine mountains, glaciers, and access to activities like swimming with dolphins and whale-watching. By living with a host family
See All 3 ProgramsAIFS Abroad
4.43
384
Study abroad in Barcelona, Spain with AIFS Abroad and earn college credit in one of Europe’s most popular student cities. With semester, summer, January Term, May Term and academic year options, you can study at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), or LCI Barcelon
See All 31 ProgramsIES Abroad
4.56
9
Pack your bag for endless adventures studying abroad in South Africa! Imagine swimming with penguins at Boulders Beach, learning about the country’s history at the Robben Island Museum, or hiking Table Mountain. When you study abroad, South Africa becomes the adventure-filled location of your dreams
See All 56 ProgramsSemester at Sea
4.77
47
Unlike traditional study abroad or tourism experiences, Semester at Sea offers a unique opportunity for deep, authentic engagement with countries and cultures around the globe. It's more than just the adventure of a lifetime. It's a transformative experience that will give you a global perspective t
See All 4 ProgramsUniversity Studies Abroad Consortium
4.52
103
The USAC program is based at the University of Alicante, which has a student population of 30,000 and offers two diverse academic areas: Intensive Language and Spanish and European Studies. Have the opportunity to study the Spanish language and the complexities of Spanish and contemporary European s
See All 35 ProgramsIFSA, Institute for Study Abroad
4.48
23
Academic excellence in one of Europe's greenest cities! With a sterling reputation for academic excellence that stretches back to 1583, the University of Edinburgh is also looking to the future. Witness the university’s Edinburgh Futures Institute, a thought lab focused on global challenges. (Hint:
See All 31 ProgramsJohn Cabot University
4.3
156
Earn an American bachelor’s degree in English while living and studying in the heart of Rome. John Cabot University combines the flexibility of an American liberal arts education with the opportunity to experience life in Italy and become part of a truly international community. Study alongside s
Go Abroad China Ltd.
4.73
177
Launch your global career with Go Abroad China's Paid Internship Program. Since 2003, we have connected over 4,000 international students and professionals from 50+ countries to high-impact, paid positions across China's leading economic hubs. Our exclusive network guarantees access to 2,000+ intern
See All 7 ProgramsCollege Year in Athens
4.58
73
Students interested in short-term, intensive study abroad are invited to take CYA's summer program, which offers unique, experience-based learning opportunities. Summer is an exceptional time to study in Greece. Our unique courses are tailored to combine academics with authentic experiences, takin
SAI Programs
4.5
6
Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) is a dynamic public university consistently ranked among the top institutions in Europe. The university offers undergraduate students a wide range of courses, with strengths in social sciences, humanities, Hispanic studies, and business. As an urban institution, UPF op
See All 3 ProgramsCEA
4.43
192
Barcelona—Spain’s second-largest city—features a cosmopolitan atmosphere, a temperate climate, marvelous art, and fantastic opportunities to learn. Gaze upon Antoni Gaudí’s gothic Sagrada Familia church. Enjoy delicious tapas while socializing with new friends. Experience the thrill of soccer at Eur
See All 18 ProgramsWorldStrides
4.66
70
Explore Seville, Spain, a city where Andalusian traditions, historic landmarks, and vibrant student life come together. Study at institutions like Universidad Pablo de Olavide, the WorldStrides Global Campus, or the University of Seville while taking courses designed for a variety of Spanish profici
See All 35 ProgramsAcademic Programs International
4.57
47
Beautiful Granada is the capital city in the province of Granada. Seated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and having four rivers running through the city, it remains only an hour from the Mediterranean Sea. It has even hosted the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships back in 1996. In G
See All 33 ProgramsSIT Study Abroad
4.48
23
Explore Madagascar’s rainforests, mangroves, coral reefs, and unique biodiversity, shaped by more than 100 million years of isolation. Recognized as one of the world’s megadiverse countries, the island is home to flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. Study alongside Malagasy university studen
See All 28 ProgramsWebster University Athens
4.4
111
Odyssey in Athens is a study abroad program offered through Webster University Athens. Located in the center of Athens, in the historic section of the Plaka area—right below the Acropolis, this campus is a perfect location for formal study and study abroad. Students from all over the US with a w
World Campus International, Inc.
4.75
103
Take part in short-term summer study programs in different regions across Japan with World Campus International, Inc. This three to nine-week program offers participants the opportunity to grow professionally and gain cultural and international experience in a non-traditional setting, all while enjo
How to Study Culture Abroad
Why
Studying culture abroad allows students to delve into the finite aspects of the new society they choose to live in. Because of this, culture is actually one of the most exciting and interesting topics you can study overseas. Whether it’s finding out the deep dark secrets of torture practices in Medieval England or why pilgrims wear shells on their backpacks on the Camino del Santiago in Spain, cultural studies allow you backdoor access to the history of the place you’re living!
As well as gaining a deeper knowledge of the place you’re at, studying culture abroad allows you to learn under local professors that offer a different perspective from what you might find from a professor back home. For example, a professor of culture or history in Peru will most likely be Peruvian themselves (and will have grown up among Incan ruins, traditions, and culture) offering a first hand look into the subject you’re studying.
Finally, studying culture abroad is just plain fun. Many culture-oriented programs abroad are full of field trips to historical sites, contemporary examples of subject matter, and a TON of delectable samplings of the local cuisines (#foodselfies, much?!).
Locations
The great thing about culture is that you can literally go anywhere to study it. Virtually every university and study abroad program offers some sort of culture course, if not several. Whether you want to dive into the history of the political revolution in South Africa, Hinduism in India, colonialism in Brazil, or Jules Verne in France, the world is literally at your culture-lovin’ fingertips.
The most important factors in deciding where to study culture abroad are figuring out what credits count toward your major and what is interesting to you. Since cultural studies courses are so widely available around the world, many students choose to study abroad in non-traditional places, in order to learn about a culture they otherwise wouldn’t have been exposed to.
The most popular places, by far, to study culture abroad are Europe, particularly England and France, because both countries offer many choices in terms of elite universities. The diversity of cultural course offerings are more likely to transfer credits to your home institution too.
Another one of the most popular places to pursue cultural studies abroad is South America, where students can delve into subjects such as pre-Columbian history, contemporary dance, or modern aspects of multicultural countries, such as Peru and Brazil. Even though most of South America was colonized by the Spanish or Portuguese, each country has its own unique history that offers a vastly different experience for each student. Finally, for those who are interested in indigenous studies should seriously consider South America as an option due to the thousands of ethnic groups that live in each nation.
Program Options
Since there is such a wide variety of culture courses offered abroad, students can heavily customize the type of study abroad experience they want.
Those looking to cast a wide net in a short amount of time should sift through summer multi-country programs. In general, multi-country study abroad programs focus on subjects that can be intertwined with cultural studies, such as literature and history. Depending on the specific program, courses will usually last between two and three weeks in each country.
If you want to focus on a specific culture and get into the nitty gritty aspects of a particular place, take a look at semester and year-long study abroad programs that all take place in one country. More long term study abroad programs will take students deep inside the minutia of cultural studies, exploring topics related to fine arts and history. Many full semester culture study abroad programs are accompanied by foreign language courses, if you choose a non-English speaking country, along with three to four related classes.
One thing to keep in mind when selecting a culture-focused study abroad program is accommodation; any culturally curious students should opt for programs that involve staying with local host families, so as to get the most immersive cultural experience possible.
Benefits & Challenges
Cultures. Are. Dope. But we’re preaching to the choir, right? As a fellow social scientist, you know that you can’t familiarize yourself with all the layers of a culture in a short amount of time. The time constraint of most study abroad programs may pose a challenge to anthropologists-in-the-making who take their international studies seriously.
That being said, just because you can’t memorize the entire scope of Italian culture in a mere few months doesn’t mean you shouldn’t at least try. There are many ways to experience a culture, many of them sensory ways that lead to a wildly fulfilling introductory cultural crash course (we suggest by way of belly).
Culture is a sum of many things, attitudes, perspectives, and trends, and is inescapable. Even those individuals who reject culture are subconsciously admitting of its existence. While we’re sure you’ve loved diving deep into your own culture as a college student, now’s as good a time as any to set your sights on a foreign one.
Popular Providers
Latest Program Reviews
Unforgettable memories and lasting friendships!
October 12, 2026by: Alissa Frame - United StatesGoing to TZ for a semester abroad with SIT was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I feel incredibly grateful for all the experiences I had and wonderful people I met--many of whom I stay in touch with today! The semester was an exciting mix of camping in national parks, observing incredible wildlife like elephants, lions, giraffes, and birds, and doing a homestay for 3 weeks. I really appreciated the cultural immersion, between the homestay and opportunities to interview community members for research/class. The SIT TZE staff is top-notch when it comes to support, kindness, and truly making you feel like family. This program has added depth to my life and I'm currently trying to return to the region because of how much I loved my experience.
An Unforgettable Experience in Florence, Italy
October 11, 2026by: Isabelle Chester - United StatesProgram: API: Experience Florence, Italy (Scholarships Available)
Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, was an unforgettable journey filled with new experiences, cultural discoveries, and personal growth. From exploring the beautiful streets to experiencing authentic Italian food and history, every moment was special. Although adjusting to a new environment had its challenges, the experience helped me become more independent and open-minded. I would highly recommend studying abroad in Florence to anyone and everyone! I think spending a full semester abroad is the best way to experience a new country because it gives you enough time to truly immerse yourself in the culture and adjust to a different way of life. A semester also provides the perfect balance of time to focus on your studies while still having opportunities to travel and experience new things. I was in Florence for the Spring 2026 term, which was such a wonderful time to experience the city. As the weather began to warm up, Florence became even more beautiful and lively. As an arts major, one of the most special parts of studying in Florence was being surrounded by so much incredible art and history. Getting to experience the art firsthand was truly inspiring and allowed me to connect with my passion for art in a completely different way. It made my time abroad especially meaningful. The API team made this experience even more amazing by helping make the transition to living and studying abroad feel comfortable and exciting. I appreciate the support and organization that went into making the experience so memorable. Having API as a resource allowed me to fully enjoy my time in Florence while feeling supported throughout the process. Overall, both Florence and API exceeded my expectations, and I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to study abroad and create unforgettable memories!

Such a Transformative Semester
October 11, 2026by: Gabriella Chester - United StatesProgram: API: Experience Florence, Italy (Scholarships Available)
Florence was the best host city I could have ever asked for. As a graphic design major, LDM offered a wide range of arts classes that supported my studies during the spring 2026 semester. I had class 3 days a week, so there was always plenty of time to explore Florence and travel throughout other European countries. Throughout my 4-month term, I learned so much, both inside and outside the classroom, shaping the person I am today. The API staff helped make this such a memorable experience, as communication was easy and everyone was so kind and accommodating. As for Florence, transportation was relatively easy to navigate, and the city proved safe both during the day and at night. I am truly blessed for my time abroad and hope to encourage anyone to take the leap of faith to do the same.

Very good summer in Nagoya
October 10, 2026by: Tobias Hawes - United StatesI am very glad that I came to Nagoya this summer. My Japanese skills improved immensely, I started a new martial art (though I'm still not very good at jiujitsu yet), I made many new friends, and I was able to see and do things I wouldn't have been able to otherwise. I liked how much free time we had; I and many of my classmates spent a weekend or two traveling outside of the program, and that was beside some very interesting field trips. Overall, I think this was a very good program.
The most amazing experience of my life
October 09, 2026by: Madeline Conlon - United KingdomProgram: API: Experience Barcelona, Spain (Scholarships Available)
Studying abroad in barcelona through API was the best experience of my life! I had the freedom to explore a new place and immerse myself in a new culture while also having the security of knowing I had API there to help me if I needed it! The housing was amazing and way nicer than I expected it to be. The program cost itself turned out to be incredibly worth it as it it included housing, multiple cultural excursions, and metro cards for transportation.
Amazing time in Tanzania!!
October 07, 2026by: Ogy Simeonov - BulgariaI completed the Wildlife Conservation Programme in Tanzania in 2021 and it was honestly an amazing experience that I still remember to this day. Everyone was so kind and helpful, and I learned so much about wildlife and conservation during the programme. The classes in nature were amazing and it was great to be able to learn about wildlife while actually being surrounded by it. The weather was great, the people were lovely, and there was always something new to learn and experience. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I’m really glad I had the opportunity to take part. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves wildlife, nature and travelling.



The best month ever!
October 07, 2026by: Elmar Limas - United StatesI chose AIFS Abroad because of the variety of programs that they offer. I went to Paris, France for a January term to take an Accounting class at the American Business College. The AIFS staff was super helpful with me. Even before departure, they were there for me helping me with my housing options and to coordinate my flights, during my program they invited us to different excursions and to the AIFS office in Paris to know the staff and after the program they were very interested in our feedback and reviews. During my program I stayed with a host family and it was such an amazing thing because i got to experience French culture first-hand while also sharing a little bit about my own culture. The American Business College is a place where students from different cultures and backgrounds share one same perspective on global business with an American point of view, which made everything easier for me. This program had a great impact in my life because it made me get out of my comfort zone and get to know so many people while earning credit towards my degree. I'd recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking to study abroad or intern while getting credits towards their degree. AIFS is very helpful, has so many programs available and a staff who is always willing to make the best for you.
An unforgettable summer in Seville, Spain🇪🇸
October 06, 2026by: Suchita Bhojaraju - United StatesMy study abroad experience in Seville, Spain was truly unforgettable. I had the opportunity to explore a new culture, meet people from different backgrounds, and experience everyday life in another country. I loved being able to travel around Spain and visit places like Barcelona and Madrid, while also making memories in Seville. Studying abroad helped me become more independent, confident, and open to trying new things. I would definitely recommend studying abroad to other students because it is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life!


Best experience of my life!
October 06, 2026by: Alayna Weber - United StatesStudying abroad in Madrid through WorldStrides was truly the best experience of my life! I learned so much about myself and about the world around me. WorldStrides staff were there with me every step of my process and were so welcoming and inviting. I lived with a host family and they were absolutely wonderful. Nebrija was a great university with the best professors. I'm so grateful for this experience and for WorldStrides help along the way!
Great fun while learning g
October 05, 2026by: Joanna Walker - United StatesThe teachers were fabulous! Using games mixed with instruction made learning interesting. I especially enjoyed our assignment of going to the high market across from our hotel. We learned how to order what we wanted, and interviewed the proprietor. Ours was a bull fighter before buying his stall in the market! The cultural activities were fun and the hotel where we stayed was very comfortable.
¡Hola Joanna! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! We'll be sure to pass your kind words on to our teaching team. We hope to welcome you back soon to keep learning and exploring together. ¡Un fuerte abrazo!
Life changing experience!!
October 05, 2026by: Ellison Keller - United StatesProgram: CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina
I cannot recommend this program enough. Everything from the housing, friends, social life, excursions, cost, and academics exceeded my expectations. I met so many incredible people I can't imagine my life without now. My perspective of the world broadened so much and I learned so much about the social and political climate of Latin America, though my classes and real world experiences. Do the study abroad you will not regret!!

A Fantastic Experience!
October 04, 2026by: Dana Loncar - United StatesThe Expanish 50+ study abroad program in Malaga was amazing! The instructors were awesome and made the lessons engaging and fun. The cultural activities were really interesting and allowed for an excellent opportunity to learn about and experience the local history and culture. I highly recommend it!
¡Hola, Dana! Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you had such an amazing time on our 50+ study abroad program in Málaga. Thank you for recommending us. That means a lot to our whole team, and we'll be sure to share your kind words with our instructors. We hope to see you back in Málaga soon for another adventure. ¡Un abrazo y hasta pronto!
Lots of Wildlife and Very Kind Community
October 04, 2026by: Sofia Nuri - United StatesThis study abroad experience was truly life changing. I had never been camping before and was a little intimidated, but the instructors and staff were so kind and helpful. I also got the experience of a lifetime on the safaris! I got to see lots of elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras. Would highly highly recommend!
GREAT EXPERIENCE
October 02, 2026by: John Kreit - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I spent 4 weeks in Cusco with Maximo Nivel. My level was high-intermediate. The school is outstanding and well organized, and my teachers were excellent. I learned a lot. My home stay went very well, with great food served for breakfast and dinner. I recommend this program for anyone, but I think it is most helpful for those who have at least a basic ability to speak and understand Spanish.
Best experience!
October 02, 2026by: Michaela Forbes - United StatesStudying abroad in Tanzania with SIT was the best decision I’ve ever made. I made so many incredible memories while on safari, staying with my host family and even completing my own wildlife research. It was such an educational and enriching experience. I learned so much about the country, the people, the wildlife as well as myself. Tanzania is still my favorite place I’ve ever traveled!
Transformative, Highly Recommend!
October 02, 2026by: Naturi Scott - United StatesThis program absolutely changed my worldview! Not a day goes by that I don’t think about the immersive experiences and connections that I have as a result of this program. The staff are unbelievably inviting, talented, and caring. They are highly knowledgeable and invested in the learning, development, and wellbeing of students. If you are looking for a unique opportunity to expand your world while gain valuable research experience, this is the program for you.

Best Decision I Ever Made!
October 02, 2026by: Vivian Arsenault - United StatesBarcelona was the best home base ever! So easy to travel to and from on the weekends. So much to do and so many different foods to try. The public transportation system was super convenient and easy to use. Would give advice to future travelers to talk to everyone and make meaningful connections!

Once in a lifetime program!
October 01, 2026by: Sydney Gelhorn - United StatesThis program was absolutely incredible. The staff, both the support staff and the teachers, were incredible. They made efforts to connect with each student on a personal level, and I am deeply grateful for at home they worked to make us feel. In what scenario are you doing school work and group projects while in National Parks and Widlife Reserves in Tanzania?! I learned a lot both academically and about myself as a person. So much love for this program!!
A life changing opportunity
October 01, 2026by: Brooke Su - United StatesI had a really impactful experience studying abroad in Tanzania in 2020. The teaching staff were all so valuable, insightful, and friendly, and we as students all felt taken care of during our time there. I learned so much through hands-on experience in the national parks on safari and learning Swahili while staying with my host family. This semester abroad has left a lasting impact on me and I hope to visit Tanzania again in the future.
Great program! Best semester ever!
October 01, 2026by: Bec Griffin - United StatesThis program is amazing for anyone looking for cultural immersion, language immersion, incredible field experiences, and resume building research experience. Class is literally watching lions in the Serengeti.
Latest Interviews

Arseniy Ovchinnikov
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to gain international experience, improve my English, and learn from professionals in the hospitality ind...

Anastasiya Vinogradova
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
Growing up, I lived in Thailand and practiced tennis, so travel and new cultures always felt natural to me.

Maria Huerta
European Centre for Career Education
What inspired me to go abroad was not just curiosity, but the need to understand the systems that shape people's lives beyond borders.

Andrew Messersmith
College Year in Athens
What inspired me to go abroad was all of the different opportunities that my university provides. I believe that spending a semester abroad can be an ...

Jonathan Ulicny
CES Maastricht
I was inspired to travel abroad because of my commitment to learning more about international cultures and interacting with individuals across Europe....

Vanessa Chairez
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
I was inspired to go about because it truly is a once in a lifetime experience and we are only this young once, so why not take advantage of that. It ...

Bethel University Global Studies
My family has been my motivation and inspiration to go abroad. I come from a family where most of us are complacent with small, everyday life. My fami...

Kesa Ferguson
Academic Programs International
My brother was my primary inspiration to go abroad; seeing his transformative experience in China showed me how much a global perspective can change a...

Lia-Mara Bösch
StudyInBali
What inspired me to go abroad was partly a requirement of my university, as we have to either complete an internship or study abroad for one semester.

John Peterson
Instituto Hemingway
Going abroad was inspired by my desire to step outside my comfort zone and experience life from a different perspective. I wanted to improve my langua...

José Gonzalo Solís Baca
European Centre for Career Education
Traveling has always been a passion of mine, and the opportunity to experience other cultures deeply inspires me. Going abroad allows me to build genu...

Amal Azabova
European Centre for Career Education
Although I graduated some time ago and currently live in Prague, I felt a strong desire to return to a structured academic environment. I wanted to re...

Elise Monroe
Academic Programs Abroad (APA)
I was always determined to study abroad because of the stories my dad told me about his own time living overseas. He once spoke French fluently, and I...

Mikhail Mikhaylov
Learn Russian in the European Union
I wanted to deepen my understanding of the post-Soviet region through direct immersion, especially given my academic focus on conflict mediation. The ...

Makayla Ross
IES Abroad
Studying abroad was not a part of my original 4-year plan. I'd anticipate joining campus clubs, meeting new people and making lifelong friendships, an...

Grant Dockery
IES Abroad
This was not my first experience studying abroad. I have always loved traveling and experiencing new cultures (I'm a big foodie). I also adore languag...

Eddie Kaake
CES Maastricht
I had known from a young age that I wanted to study far from home, but due to the illness of one of my parents, I was afraid to make that jump. After ...

Jon Shepherd
Bethel University Global Studies
My first trip abroad was to Mexico when I was in college, studying Spanish. That experience changed everything for me; it brought the language to life...

Anika Freestone
Phezulu Pre-Vet
I’ve always wanted to go to Africa, or specifically South Africa, to experience and work with its wildlife since I was a little girl. I’ve wanted to e...

Janie Kilby
Forum-Nexus Study Abroad
All three of my older brothers participated in study abroad, and from their experiences and adventures, I discovered my inspiration to have similar ad...
Popular Searches
Apply for Scholarships & Deals
Submit a single application on MyGoAbroad to get exclusive discounts on travel programs!

Travel Tools
Recent Study Abroad Articles

























