Study Abroad Programs in Amman, Jordan

The city is home to many universities including the University of Jordan, Petra University and Philadelphia University to name a few. With several different study abroad options available in the city that will be something to suit your needs 

Popular subjects to study. There are a wide range of subjects available to study in Amman, but the most popular are Arabic and International Relations. Develop your language skills and practice them while discovering the maze-like downtown, filled with souks and mosques. Then, put your Arabic to the test over a friendly debate at a local coffeehouse. For IR-heads, spend your school hours exploring the crossroads of Middle Eastern culture and gaining a better understanding of the politics and history of this area fallen empires and lost civilizations; next, turn your eye towards the many current issues impacting the region and further afield.

Short term and summer programs vs. long term programs. are all options for study abroad in Amman. There are several summer programs based around language, politics, and even ecology which are perfect for providing you with an introduction to Jordanian life. If you want something for longer, then consider a semester option or even a full year, where you will surprise yourself by taking your language skills from zero to conversational (or even further!) and gain a better understanding of the complex and fascinating culture of the country and region.

Attending universities vs. other program types. Not sure what to do? Amman provides a variety of different study abroad options. You can study at one of the many local universities alongside local and international students where a wide variety of courses are taught in English. Or, if you prefer, there are several courses led in conjunction with American universities. If you want to experience local culture, then consider one of the organizations that work to provide total immersion into the local culture through homestays, field trips, and focused courses taught by local leading experts in their fields.

Life in Amman is the perfect introduction to the Middle East with souks and Arabian coffee shops alongside contemporary art galleries and jazz and film festivals. There is always an event happening in Amman. Enjoy weekends visiting the citadel and museums to provide a better insight into the long history of the region and the issues impacting the region today. Explore the unique flavors of Amman's districts such as Rainbow Street (cafes, bars and lots of color) and El-Weibdeh (a historic district which has undergone rejuvenation). 

Use your study abroad program in Amman to not only sample the amazing food available, but learning how to cook some of the mouth-watering dishes to surprise family and friends with back home! Remember: Mealtimes in Amman are taken seriously and should never be rushed. Prepare to become addicted to falafel.

Amman’s central location is the perfect base to explore more of the many historical sights spread throughout Jordan and the surrounding region. Jordan has five UNESCO world heritage sites spread around the country. When you’re not studying in Amman, you should be discovering these unique places for yourself.

Weather. Amman experiences a variety of climates — including snow in the winter (for real!) — so be sure to research average temperatures for the season of your study abroad program and pack accordingly.

Conservative dress. Amman’s dress code is more relaxed and open compared to most of the Middle East, but don’t forget to still ensure your outfits are conservative. For example: jeans and loose tops, longer skirts, nothing too tight. If you head out into the countryside, the dress code becomes more conservative — so pack your bags accordingly.

Weekends. Don’t forget weekends are Friday and Saturday in Jordan and fellow Middle Eastern countries. You’ll get used to having classes on Sundays eventually (we promise). 

It’s never tabbouleh-te to sign up to study abroad in Amman. Adventure awaits from its seven hills to its multiple coasts and within every piece of sand in between. Studying in Amman has never been so important, accessible, and fun — get after it!

Feeling hungry for hummus and ultra-inspired? Read our entire guide to study abroad in Jordan.