May Term Study Abroad

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with Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
203 May Term Study Abroad Programs
AIFS Abroad
4.56
32
Spend your summer in the sunny, international resort city of Cannes, France, with AIFS Abroad! Earn up to 13 credits at the Campus International de Cannes. Courses are taught in English and French. Learn or perfect your French language skills with no previous French language study required. Live on
See All 18 ProgramsArcos Learning Abroad
4.77
248
Study abroad in the highlands of central Costa Rica, in the charming city of Heredia. Immerse yourself in the Costa Rican lifestyle while taking classes at the modern Latin University. Courses include Spanish for all levels, electives, certificate courses in English and Spanish, and internships. C
See All 5 ProgramsAdelante Abroad
4.33
168
Equine Summer Study Abroad is now in its 10th year and sold out. Apply now for next year! Limited to just 16 students, it includes daily English-style riding and coursework in Equine Anatomy & Physiology and Equine Fitness. Ideal for animal science or pre-vet majors, but open to all—no riding experi
See All 2 ProgramsSAI Programs
0
0
The Cinque Terre Riviera program is located in La Spezia on Italy’s Ligurian coast, serving as the main access point to the Cinque Terre villages. It is offered through Florence University of the Arts as part of its broader academic programming, giving students the opportunity to pair coastal immers
International Medical Aid (IMA)
5
70
Join the ranks of forward-thinking healthcare professionals through International Medical Aid's (IMA) Physician Assistant and Pre-PA Internships. Our program, rooted in the educational standards of Johns Hopkins University, is designed to propel undergraduate students, PA school attendees, certified
See All 6 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
4.67
715
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 2 ProgramsMeiji Academy
4.92
73
Meiji Academy’s Hokkaido School is located in the center of the bustling city of Sapporo, which offers delicious food, world-famous beer, and action-packed ski resorts. You’ll also find the vast stunning lands of Hokkaido on your doorstep, perfect for an adventure! Our courses cover: - Standard Ja
See All 2 ProgramsUniversitat Autònoma de Barcelona
4
1
Stay in Barcelona from 3 to 12 weeks to study subjects taught in English or Spanish, with the option of taking Spanish language courses. Enroll in two to six subjects in the Fall and Spring or one to three subjects in the May and Summer, each consisting of 45 hours of class time. Start dates are in
See All 2 ProgramsGo Abroad China Ltd.
4.73
173
Launch your global career with Go Abroad China's Career & Business Immersion Program. Since 2003, we've connected over 4,000 international students and professionals from 50+ countries to guaranteed placements across China's leading economic hubs. Our exclusive network gives you access to 2,000+ pla
See All 8 ProgramsSiena Italian Studies Program
4.63
54
Participants are immersed in the Italian language and culture during a semester, academic year, or summer program. Courses include Anthropology, Art History, Cinema, Medieval History, Sociolinguistics, History of Italian Cooking, Business, and Creative Arts. Students live with local host families
JaLS GROUP
4.73
51
Hokkaido Japanese Language School, located in the center of the bustling and modern city of Sapporo, offers students the chance to study Japanese conversationally and culturally. No previous experience is necessary and classes are offered for all levels and age groups. Courses begin every Monday and
See All 2 ProgramsCracow School of Art and Fashion Design
4.69
13
The Cracow School of Art and Fashion Design offers a two-and-a-half-year full-time program that enables students to release their full potential. At the school, students are in the heart of a vibrant community—alive with creative energy, surrounded by people who love what they do, have ideas and t
See All 2 ProgramsDante Alighieri Siena - Learning Italy
4
1
The Italian Language Experience at Learning Italy – Dante Alighieri Siena offers a flexible, immersive Italian language program open to students of all proficiency levels. Students may enroll for a minimum of 3 weeks and up to a full academic year. Each week includes 20 Italian lessons (50 minutes
Intercultura Costa Rica
4.91
22
Learn Spanish and immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture at one or both of our two unique locations – Samara Tropical Beach Campus and/or Heredia Historic City Campus. Study Spanish in small, dynamic groups with students of all ages and nationalities. Live with a Costa Rican family or in a student
GLS German Language School Berlin
0
0
The GLS Campus Berlin is a green oasis in the very center of Berlin - and the only language school in Germany with a 14000 square meter campus, including accommodation on site. The facilities on campus are second to none in Europe: 60 classrooms, 50 student apartments, 70 hotel rooms, a restaurant s
CEA
4.42
189
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 8 ProgramsEuroace
4.39
72
Looking to boost your career while improving your Spanish? Why not combine both in an unforgettable and unique study abroad experience? At EUROACE, we partner with top companies across various industries in Valencia, Madrid and Barcelona, offering internship placements that enhance your academic s
Philotimo Med Abroad
5
44
Are you a dental student eager to gain hands-on experience and shadow leading professionals in one of the most historically rich countries in the world? The Philotimo Med Dentistry Internship in Greece offers an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your dental knowledge and skills. With 25+ hours of
See All 4 ProgramsAcademic Programs International
4.36
25
Seville, the capital of Andalusia and Spain’s 4th largest city, is between the Sierra Morena mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoying culture from the Romans, Visigoths, Muslims, Jews, and Christians throughout the ages and serving as the focal point of the Spanish Renaissance, the city is rich in
See All 2 ProgramsInstituto Hemingway
4.88
33
Study Spanish at our fully accredited language training center, located in one of the most interesting areas of Spain. Our educational programs provide a unique combination of in-class work and outside activities. We are not only a 'School for Spanish', but we are also an 'Institute for Languages an
See All 3 ProgramsHow to Do a May Term Study Abroad
Why
Studying abroad during May term has tons of appeal. If you’re a bit timid to go for a whole summer or semester, May term is the perfect opportunity to get your feet wet. You can also literally get your feet wet by dipping those toes in the Mediterranean Sea or perhaps the Pacific Ocean, depending on where you choose to study abroad in May. There is nothing like the act of getting out there and doing it. You can try out this whole studying abroad thing for just a few weeks, and chances are you’ll want to go back for longer!
Another bonus of studying abroad in May? Heading overseas in May to earn credit won’t interfere with summer job plans or family commitments at home. On the flip side, it’s also the perfect excuse to stick around after your course is through to backpack, volunteer, or write your very own adventure-novel.
Locations
While the far north is just starting to thaw out, May is the time to go where it’s heating up. Southern Europe, baby! May term is the ideal time to visit popular European destinations, including Spain and France, before the droves of summer tourists file in.
May 15th kicks off bullfighting season in Madrid with the San Isidro Festival. Madrileños celebrate in traditional dress with music and dancing in the Plaza Mayor, but there are also rock concerts and parties throughout the city during this time. Madrid also offers some of Spain’s best museums, parks, and nightlife. Take a tour at the Prado, and then end your day with some delicious tapas (small plates). That’s so Spain! Perfect that roll of the tongue by studying the Spanish Language, or get ready to launch that start up you’ve been dreaming of by studying business or entrepreneurship.
Southern France is another cool (er, warm) spot and is home to the Cannes Film Festival where you can hang with the rich and famous (or at least pretend to) in between classes. This May event draws celebrities from around the world, so you may want to pack your selfie stick after all. Language study is the name of the game in France as well, but it’s also a superb place to study art or history.
If you’ve been there, done that with Europe, or you want to get off the beaten path, head to Asia! China, in particular, is where it’s at for May term study abroad programs. May is one of the best times of the year to visit much of the mainland, with pleasant temperatures and relatively dry weather.
Beijing is an obvious choice for good reasons. It offers no shortage of options to study foreign languages as well as Asian or Ethnic studies. Begin your explorations in Tiananmen Square, the heart of the city, and then journey to the outskirts of town to the Summer Palace. Also, you can’t go all the way to China without seeing the Great Wall. Do it! Although early May can be busy with travelers due to the May Day holiday, the crowds should die down after the first week of the month.
Program Options
Many universities offer faculty-led programs in May, meaning your curriculum will line up flawlessly and you can take a course from your fave professor. Invite your friends along! You’ll likely forge a close bond with the group, as you all take part in the shared experience. Faculty-led programs are often super unique, focused courses, such as culinary arts in Italy or martial arts in China. You might even earn some extra course credits to graduate faster. Booyah!
Because of the immersive nature of May term study abroad programs, it’s also the right time to embark on a language immersion course. In all of the aforementioned countries, you’ll have plenty of language programs to choose from. You’ll be shocked at how much your language skills can improve in such a short time with a little targeted study and real-world practice. Sitting in a cafe and ordering un café, por favor (coffee, please) takes on a whole new meaning. Many May term language programs also include a cultural immersion component, such as a homestay housing option or language partners with a local student.
Again, with the real-world experience, May term programs commonly include an internship or field-study component. Internships are often combined with business, marketing, or tourism coursework to reinforce what you are learning in the classroom. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you can get down and dirty at a field school. Field schools often have a biology, Earth science, or archaeology focus, and typically incorporate both classroom study with time in the field. Both options provide some irreplaceable career exploration and will give a leg up when it comes time to begin the job search.
Travel Tips
Expect a jam-packed month complete with intensive study. Many May term study abroad programs try to cram a full semester’s worth of material and credit into three or four weeks, plus you’ll want to see and experience all your host country has to offer. Know your goals and jot down a list of your must-see sites. Planning ahead will allow you to make the most of your short time overseas. On the other hand, don’t worry about sticking too close to your list. Try to go with the flow, too. Taking the wrong bus or asking locals for their choice spots may lead you to an undiscovered nook or cranny of the city that you would never have found otherwise.
About to graduate and not sure what’s next for you? You probably don’t want to spend your time aimlessly drifting in your neighbor’s swimming pool. Do something meaningful and study abroad! Many programs will welcome recent grads. You’ll build your network, and hopefully be one step closer to finding your career path post-grad.
Benefits & Challenges
May term can be one of the most affordable terms to study abroad. Why? It’s shorter than a full summer or semester, so you may spend less overall. Also, some schools may consider May term to be part of your Spring semester, meaning no extra tuition. Good deal! Check with your school’s study abroad office to get the official scoop.
A May term abroad is just the right length for many students. A month overseas is not as intimidating as a semester, but it’s long enough to get the hang of things in your host city. For seasoned travelers, though, it may not be long enough. If your passport is full of stamps, consider a longer time abroad to get a more in-depth look at another culture.
May is a sublime time to study abroad! Go where spring has sprung and the weather is fine. Your month abroad will surely be a memorable, yet productive one, as you are stretching your limits, gaining credits toward graduation, and getting an up-close look at places you’ve only read about.
Popular Providers
Latest Program Reviews
studied mandarin at peking university
August 25, 2026by: Yuki Kobayashi - JapanI studied Mandarin at Peking University for 3 months through GAC. I arrived knowing almost no Chinese, but my homestay family was incredibly patient and kind. My teacher made classes fun and practical. By the end, I could hold conversations, order food, and even bargain at markets. The GAC team organized weekend trips to the Great Wall and Summer Palace. I returned to Japan with confidence and a love for Chinese culture. Every food was very tasted and appetite bringing and I would eat more than usual. Highly recommend.

Ni Hao
August 12, 2026by: Clara Van Buren - BelgiumI studied Mandarin at Peking University for 4 months through GAC. I arrived knowing only "ni hao." My homestay family was amazing – they only spoke Chinese, so I had to practice every single day. My teacher was patient and made classes fun. By month three, I could order food, take the subway, and have real conversations with locals. The GAC team organized weekend trips to the Summer Palace and the Great Wall. I came back to Belgium with confidence and a second family in Beijing. Highly recommend.

This was an eye opening and life changing experience!
August 02, 2026by: Bianca Damore - United StatesProgram: Bulgaria & Greece: Pre-Occupational & Speech Therapy program
During my time abroad, I really fell in love with the career of speech, language pathology, and it made me a lot more excited to pursue my education. I was able to get firsthand experience in what speech pathology looks like in many different ways and I would’ve never had an opportunity like this if I didn’t sign up for Therapy Abroad

Education at Maximo Nivel
August 01, 2026by: Ben Loper - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I spent two weeks in Guatemala with Maximo Nivel. My Spanish level was minimal when I arrived. I felt like I was able to have a basic conversation and move around the city with the Spanish I learned. My homestay was very nice, and the staff here solved any issues I had; I would definitely do it again.
Spanish immersion
July 30, 2026by: Sarah Medley - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Living in Costa Rica for 4 weeks has been an incredible experience. It helped me integrate myself into the culture, language, and nature of the country. I was able to learn Spanish for 4 weeks with no Spanish to being able to form sentences and talk Spanish in tandem with not only my teachers but with the locals. The staff have been excellent in taking care of all my needs including changing accommodations, health issues, checking up regularly. This experience is 5 stars overall!


Best experience!
July 29, 2026by: Lizbeth Morales - United StatesI was very very hesitant on applying and even once I got accepted I was very skeptical about joining BUT I truly had the best time ever! Getting to experience different clinics around Athens was an amazing and the PTs were truly the best! We started out strangers but once it was time to end it was the hardest see you later ever! Best directors ever too!!!

She came back with more confidence.
July 28, 2026by: Kristen Amante - United StatesI wanted my daughter to have lots of support when she studied abroad for high school. Seville Abroad didn’t disappoint. She had a wonderful host family. The center was a great respite from the intense immersion school provided. They had Spanish classes three times a week to pull together the language she learned at school. They did several day trips/trips and outings which helped facilitate and deepen friendships with other Seville Abroad students. She came back with so much confidence and love for Spain.
Máxiomo runs an excellent program!
July 25, 2026by: Nicole Ross - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I am happy to report that I’ve had a magically adventurous time here, my Spanish has noticeably improved, my hosts were kind and accommodating, and the Maximo and Inca Trails staff were wonderful. Special shoutout to Martha and Susan! They are amazing teachers and people. I’m sad to be leaving but happy to be heading home renewed, inspired and closer to fluency. You all run an excellent program!
6 weeks at Fudan University
July 23, 2026by: Hanna Wu - CanadaI spent 6 weeks studying Mandarin at Fudan University in Shanghai. My homestay family was wonderful — they took me to local markets and taught me to cook Shanghai-style dishes. My teacher focused on practical conversation, not just textbook grammar. By the end, I could comfortably order food, take taxis, and even bargain at the fabric market. The GAC coordinators organized visits to the Bund, Yu Garden, and a day trip to Hangzhou. This experience gave me confidence and a love for Chinese culture. Highly recommend.

I learning Spanish!!!
July 18, 2026by: Nina Koncewicz - PolandProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I learnt Spanish with a native speaker, she was very kind. There is a very nice atmosphere there. The teachers teach very well. They have a professional approach to learning. They come up with games that make it easy to consolidate words.
Perfect from start to finish
July 17, 2026by: Henrik Rathjen - GermanyProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
My experience in Maximo was absolutely perfect. It was my first solo travel ever and I felt absolutely guided through it. My teachers Runnia and especially Francis were perfect. It was super fun in the classes which made the learning feel less boring but super fun and rewarding. The staff around the organisation is great, some of the nicest people I’ve met. The cooking and dancing classes are well organized and super fun. They also do their best to adjust classes to your expectations. Wishes are not seen as criticism but rather as a possibility to make the clients happy. Quepos/Manuel Antonio itself is a nice town, offering great beaches nice accommodations, aswell as bars and most importantly great people! I will remember this trip for a long time and I’m super happy I made my experiences in Costa Rica with Maximo. I hope to return one day.
Peking University Experience
July 14, 2026by: Mikael Lindgren - SwedenI studied Mandarin at Peking University for 4 months through GAC. I arrived knowing maybe 10 words. My homestay family was incredible – they only spoke Chinese, so I had to practice every single day at dinner. My teacher was patient and made class fun. By month three, I could order food, bargain at markets, and hold real conversations. The GAC team organized weekend trips to the Great Wall and Summer Palace. I came back to Sweden speaking more Chinese than friends who studied for years. Highly recommend.

Amazing Spanish Immersion Experience!
July 11, 2026by: Mark Koussa - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Máximo Nivel offered a wonderful Spanish immersion experience in San Jose, Costa Rica. The staff are incredibly friendly and the entire institute is very well organized. The methods used in class really encourage conversation and useful practice of your linguistic skills. Within even just the first few days of my program, I felt as though I was already breaking down the barrier in my language learning journey. If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the Spanish language, Máximo Nivel is a must!
The best 7 weeks!
July 11, 2026by: Grace Malobisky - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I had two different Spanish teachers throughout my 7 weeks - Angie and Dulce. Both were amazing teachers and I learned so much! I learned not only lots of Spanish grammar, Guatemalan slang words, and conjugations, but also about the culture and history of Antigua and the Guatemalan people. The classes were always so much fun! Thank you Maximo Nivel!
Amazing time
July 11, 2026by: Marlyna Bourdeau - CanadaProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I really loved my experience. I was scared of coming here alone but I met some really cool people and made some great memories. So I was never alone. The staff and my teacher were great. I’ll be back!

Such A Positive Experience for Our Son
July 07, 2026by: Jean Coulter - United StatesThe Seville Abroad team provided the most amazing foundation for our son as a spent his sophmore year living abroad. They were all absolutely wonderful - they are excellent communicators, made our son feel so welcome and supported, and the program showcased Spain's rich history, diversity, and culture. If you are interested in living abroad as a high schooler, we can't recommend this program enough.
Incredible Lessons Learned
July 01, 2026by: Dustin Ramsey - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Rogelio taught me what it means to be selfless & serve the community without being funded by the missions that do not resonate with what´s being offered. Keep the values, stick with what resonates. Love is an endless act of forgiveness, forgiveness is an endless act of love! Forgive all, love all! We are one, blessings! I love you all!
thanks from GAC for the wonderful journey
July 01, 2026by: Helena Novak - Czech RepublicI studied Mandarin at BLCU in Beijing for 4 months through GAC. I arrived knowing only "ni hao." My homestay family was amazing – they only spoke Chinese, so I had to practice every single day. My teacher was patient and made classes fun and engaging. By month three, I could order food, take the subway, and have real conversations with locals. The GAC team organized weekend trips to the Great Wall and Summer Palace. I came back to Prague speaking more Chinese than friends who studied for years. Highly recommend for anyone serious about learning Mandarin.

Kicking it off in the North🇯🇵
June 27, 2026by: Casper Blades - New ZealandProgram: Study Japanese in Hokkaido
One hell of an adventure! Japan felt like a roller coaster and it’s definitely hit a good spot doing my first travel to Japan not a busy city like Tokyo or Osaka. Sapporo was amazing and I loved my school a lot. The teaching was pretty smooth and the activities were my favorite. Be back in Japan soon. Peace
I had the most amazing experience!
June 24, 2026by: Mekenzie Moffet - United StatesI have had the best experience and will recommend that everyone apply and try to come on this study abroad trip to see for themselves. It was worth the money 1000% with memories that will never go away and new friends for life. Everyone I've met on this trip has been super nice and welcoming, students and staff alike. This trip is also pretty unique as for it's independent nature, being able to go explore everywhere myself has been super invigorating.
Latest Interviews

Destiny Benway
Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
I’ve always loved traveling, especially anywhere connected to the ocean. Throughout college, I worked during the school year so I could spend my break...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

Mounif Ghrayeb
Forum-Nexus Study Abroad
I was inspired by a deep curiosity to experience the world beyond textbooks and classrooms. I’ve always believed that education doesn’t end within fou...

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...
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