Study Abroad Programs in Lima, Peru

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6 Lima, Peru Study Abroad Programs
Arcos 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
WorldStrides
4.89
9
Study in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital city, where centuries of history, modern influences, and rich cultural traditions come together. Located along the Pacific coast, Lima offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and contemporary city life, with Indigenous traditions, colonial architecture, world-
IFSA, Institute for Study Abroad
4.33
6
Wonder and challenge in a multicultural Latin American country! Keep an ear out for unfamiliar words as you explore—Peru is home to more than 90 indigenous languages. In this multicultural setting, you’ll take classes in Spanish on a modern, 100-acre campus at one of Latin America’s highest-ranking
MAXIMO NIVEL
4.5
12
Maximo Nivel offers university programs year round including Fall Semester, Winter Session (J-term), Spring Semester, and Summer Session. University students can study part-time or full-time. University credit is awarded by California State University-Monterey Bay and/or our local university par
MEDLIFE
0
0
A MEDLIFE Nursing Service Learning Service Trip offers free, high-quality healthcare to communities that lack access to essential health services. Local practitioners staff our Nursing Students Service Trips and offer crucial medical treatment and preventative screenings. These service-learning trip
International TEFL and TESOL
5
2
Unleash your passion for teaching amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru. Use the coupon code GoAbroad15 upon checkout to receive 15% off any course. Take advantage of our Super Sale! Choose from a selection of accredited online TEFL courses, with prices starting fr
How to Study Abroad in Lima
Subjects & Courses
The academic schedule for study in Lima runs from February till July (Semester One) and July till December (Semester Two). Many study abroad programs in Lima will run through Pontificia Universidad Católica del Peru, which is one of Peru’s top rated institutions. Since Lima has such a high standard of education, it is possible to take classes in almost anything, but some programs will have one to two that are required, such as Peruvian Culture or something focused on service learning.
Archeology. Even those who don’t mean to will study archeology while studying abroad in Lima. Sites like Huaca Pucllana and others are located right in the middle of the city. You will walk by cultural sites that date back to 700 AD without even trying. The wealth of sites like these throughout Peru, such as Pisac and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Machu Picchu, have drawn archeologists and highly trained professors from around the globe. Archeology classes in Lima will include field trips within the city and nearby. You can even travel to Machu Picchu in a weekend using modern transportation, but for hiking there by an Inca Trail, you will need four to five days.
Human Rights & Urban Development. These both have particularly interesting roots in Lima. The reason Lima is such a chaotic city is that it grew far beyond expectations and at an unprecedented rate. The 80s and early 90s in Peru were tainted by heavy internal conflict. The Shining Path, a guerilla organization, gained popularity in rural areas and executed many terrorist attacks. The conflict between the group and the government resulted in the loss of many innocent lives mostly in rural areas. As a results, throngs of people moved from throughout the country to Lima, filling an already growing city. Lima is surrounded by “shanty towns” or makeshift villages many of which have their roots in this movement.
Education. The difference between rich and poor in Lima is stunning. Some neighborhoods have a limited water supply, unreliable electricity, and dilapidated and understaffed schools, while other neighborhoods have gated, shining schools, spas on every corner, and skyrise condos. The class system between European and native descendents still thrives. Anyone interested in Human and Civil Rights, Politics, and Urban Development will find themselves in a unique and fascinating environment, but education plays a fundamental role in all of these.
Student Life
The city has an official population of around 9 million, but other estimates that include the surrounding areas have gone over 13 million; one third of the Peru’s population is found within the city limits.Living and studying in Lima will be much like life in any other big city, but with a little more unknown around every corner. You will have easy access to every modern amenity you would see in the United States if you’re in the right area. Each neighborhood will have its own selection of shops, malls, restaurants, and nightlife to choose from. Plaza Vea is Lima’s version of WalMart and you will be able to find anything you need there at an economical price from a phone plan to groceries. For a tourist or historical experience, try visiting the Inquisition Torture Museum.
Public transportation is pretty easy to manage while studying abroad in Lima. Combis are small vans that run through the city, which are everywhere but not well maintained. These vehicles drive fast, get packed quickly, and it isn’t crazy for there to be holes in the floor and doors that don’t shut. That being said, these are easy to find and navigate after a couple of rides, a great way to meet locals, and just plain fun. The last few years have seen some incredible improvements in selection though. The Metropolitano is a more modern bus system, which offers busses that are large, clean, and have actual pre-planned routes and schedules. An electric train system is also growing throughout the city, making public transport even faster and easier.
Accommodation & Visas
Most international students studying in Lima will live in the upper class neighborhoods of Miraflores or San Isidro. These neighborhoods border each other and are about 40 minutes from Centro de Lima depending on traffic – much of Miraflores includes the coastline. Homestays are by far the most popular housing arrangement. Your “family” can vary greatly from a married couple with children at home, to a single older woman. You will typically fill out some information about your living preferences prior to studying in Lima and answer questions such as: Do you want to live with roommates? Are you okay with pets in the household? Do you have any allergies? Do you want a single or shared room? These will all help match you with potential roommates or homestays. Homestays often include two meals a day, desayuno y cena (breakfast and dinner).
Students will enter the country for study abroad as tourists and receive a visa upon arrival. Customs Officials can stamp your passport and authorize your stay for up to 183 days so depending on the length of your study abroad program in Lima, that may be all you need. If you will be studying in Peru for an entire academic year, you will need to have your tourist visa changed to a student visa for an additional fee. It is also important to note that the amount of days stamped on your passport upon arrival is at the discretion of the custom official. They don’t HAVE TO give you the fully possible 183 days so be sure to be polite and open about how long you will be studying abroad in Peru.
Travel Tips
Centro de Lima. Lima’s plaza de armas is a must see. It is sprawling and absolutely identical to a city square in Spain. It is surrounded by mansions left by the Spanish conquistadores, many of which are now apartment buildings, shops, restaurants, or all of the above. However, several are preserved as museums.
High Education Standards. Studying in Lima will be demanding and rewarding. Peruvians take their education seriously. Although, your Peruvian classmates will be helpful and friendly, they will also be competitive and driven.
When does class start? Punctuality can be hit and miss even in the academic setting. Some classes will start 15 minutes after the actual start time and most will include some sort of break (una pausa) during the class. Students will walk in throughout the first half hour of class and the professor won’t bat an eye. However, know this is not always the case! Professors will give students the situation on the first day of class and layout their expectations if it is one of the classes that will actually start strictly on time.
Materials. Buying books isn’t as big of a factor when studying abroad in Lima. Most universities will have copy kiosks on campus where you can have required sections and materials printed. You will stand in line and tell the operator your class and they will print you the necessary readings.
Weather in Lima. The climate in Lima is a little surprising since it’s in a desert. It tends to be somewhat overcast for at least part of every day and will get a little cooler than you would think. You’ll need a light jacket and some sweaters.
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Latest Program Reviews
A Life Changing Experience!!
August 13, 2026by: Katie Gibson - United StatesI recently studied abroad for 5 weeks in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides. This experience genuinely changed my life, and the staff and accommodations provided to us by WorldStrides were a huge part of this. The on-site team was extremely supportive, and the additional trips planned by staff made my experience 10x better. I highly recommend using WorldStrides if you are considering studying abroad anywhere!
Delta college study abroad program
June 21, 2026by: Joel Blank - United StatesAdministration and staff were excellent. Without their united team effort the our program would probably would not have happen. As the actual program, excellent visits, although unfortunately visits to the University of Costa Rica Department of political science and law school didn't occur given the problems of getting further off the ground no one's really to blame
learning about myself
June 21, 2026by: Tais Villalobos-Gatica - United StatesWhile at my time with Maximo, I had a lot going on back at home. Ultimately, I felt that being here in Costa Rica has allowed me to learn so much about myself as well as my fears. In which Michael and Gabby contributed to. The immense support received not just by Maximo but specifically by Michael has been the most significant to me. There is nothing I could say to express what it is that I feel within. I have never met anyone like Michael, I say that from the bottom of my heart. I have never been someone who cared about losing friendships, yet I feel that I’ve established such an amazing friendship with Michael that it brings sadness to my heart knowing that it may be a while until we meet again. You are blessed to have such amazing staff. As someone observant, I watched as Michael took on each and every responsibility. I could feel how he felt, and witnessing first hand how he quickly responded to each scenario was honestly impressive. I’ve never met someone as loving, and soft. With a light that brings joy to others. I feel extremely blessed to have met them.
Best program!!!!
June 21, 2026by: Kathleen Gallup - United StatesThe political, cultural and environmental activities organized by Maximo were wonderful. Our guide for our two weeks was Michael and he is the best guide ever. He took care of us, changed plans on a dime if needed and was a lot of fun. Based on this experience I would recommend Maximo’s study abroad programs in Costa Rica.
Absolutely incredible!
May 31, 2026by: Anushka Nichani - United StatesThis program was so incredible! It really opened my eyes to new experiences, new people, and new perspectives! The entire staff was so helpful and engaging!!! I am extremely thankful for this program and the opportunities and people it brought me!
GREAT week
March 15, 2026by: Helena Ibrahim - United StatesHad so much fun this week studying in costa rica and being around all the wildlife! I really enjoyed the balance between studying and cultural immersion and I can’t wait to come back to costa rica and do it again!
Great way to experience Peruvian culture
December 26, 2025by: Kinsley ReidProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
I felt supported throughout the program, and it was a great way to experience Peruvian culture. The housing location and free water were extremely helpful. Key tips: bring a hat, rain jacket, and sunscreen. A constructive note: managing food allergies (like my gluten allergy due to soy sauce in some Peruvian dishes) would have been very difficult without the assistance of a Spanish-speaking, gluten-free student. Overall, a genuinely valuable travel experience.
Directors were incredibly kind and helpful
December 26, 2025by: Samantha CurryProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
The directors were incredibly kind and helpful, actively encouraging us to speak Spanish and immerse ourselves in the culture. They made a great effort to ensure we met Peruvian people. A key benefit was connecting with students in my major and learning about Peruvian life. I highly recommend this program for studying abroad. A tip: Go to the beach and Paracas if you get the chance! Overcoming the challenge of speaking Spanish was worth it.
Enjoy the trip!
December 26, 2025by: Sean SpitlerProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
Cesar and Rodrigo were amazing! Cesar was extremely kind and helpful, and Rodrigo was fantastic, spending time with the group and making us comfortable. The biggest challenge was the language barrier, but it wasn't a major issue, as I was able to manage ordering and essential communication. The best benefit was the friendships made. I highly recommend Arcos for study abroad students. Live in the moment and enjoy the trip!
Significantly improved my Spanish
December 26, 2025by: Kaylin GerikProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
This program offers truly enriching experiences, including the opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture, language, and customs. I significantly improved my Spanish skills, allowing for basic conversations with native speakers. I highly recommend this program to prospective students. Tip: research attractions and seize every opportunity in Peru! Remember to bring toilet paper!
Meaningful experience
December 26, 2025by: Bianca FlaigProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
The Arcos directors were very nice and dedicated, caring for every participant. The housing was good, though the eggs looked slightly unusual. Be sure to bring your own toilet paper to Cusco and find altitude sickness pills. Altitude sickness was a challenge, but I valued the benefit of seeing my family again. This was a meaningful academic and cultural experience.
Highly recommend
December 26, 2025by: Katharine LiepmanProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
Cesar was very helpful, particularly when I felt sick en route to the airport. Rodrigo provided excellent advice and treated us like friends; the whole group thoroughly enjoyed his input and attitude. I highly recommend this experience for the new environment and great friendships you will make. Just be aware of the weather and consider using waterproof bags.
Perfect, immersive study abroad experience
December 26, 2025by: Seth HallbauerProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
Arcos provided a perfect, immersive study abroad experience. The directors were excellent, even joining us on unscheduled events like the beach trip. While the language barrier was challenging at times, I strongly recommend reviewing Spanish beforehand. The program offered wonderful benefits, including meeting new friends and connecting with the local people.
Invaluable benefits
December 26, 2025by: Kennedy OrzechowskiProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
I highly recommend this program! The Arcos directors Cesar and Rodrigo are fantastic. The biggest challenge was getting acclimated to Cusco, but the benefits of cultural immersion and learning more Spanish were invaluable, plus I earned course credit. I confidently recommend this for students seeking academic and personal growth. Tip: pack a laundry bag!
Be open to new opportunities
December 26, 2025by: Celeste SantibanezProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
The directors were always helpful and excited to share their knowledge of Peruvian culture. I recommend this program! Be open to new opportunities. While the language barrier was initially challenging, it became easier over time. The benefits included making new friends and gaining more knowledge.
Benefits are countless
December 26, 2025by: Sebastiano FormicaProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
Arcos Learning Abroad in Peru is a truly amazing program! Both of my Arcos directors were great, and I have no complaints, only great memories. My main challenge was minor altitude sickness, but it wasn't bad. The benefits are countless—I recommend future students apply. Go!
Once in a lifetime learning experience
December 26, 2025by: Cole CountsProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
Highly recommended! Step out of your comfort zone; most people are in the same boat. While the lack of downtime can be challenging, it is mostly a once in a lifetime learning experience abroad resulting in a new appreciation for a different way of life and new friendships.
Enriching and life-changing
December 26, 2025by: Blake NicholsProgram: Arcos Learning Abroad in Lima, Peru
I highly recommend the Arcos Learning abroad program in Peru for students interested in studying abroad—it truly is an enriching and life-changing opportunity in a very cool and interesting South American country that you might not otherwise have a chance to visit.
My Peru Experience🩺🇵🇪
September 19, 2025by: Alyssa Macey - United StatesI spent five unforgettable weeks in Peru through the WorldStrides Community Health & Medical Spanish program at the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia. While living and studying in the Miraflores District this summer, I balanced classes with bonding with my host family and participating in social excursions. Academically, I learned so much. From the simulation labs with other UPCH students to the community clinical experiences at the Piedra Liza Health Center, the exposure to the Peruvian healthcare system was invaluable. Outside of the classroom, I made the most of my time in Peru. Notably, I tried various Peruvian dishes (with lomo saltado quickly becoming a favorite), took a cooking class, hiked Machu Picchu, cheered at a fútbol game, relaxed on a weekend trip to Máncora Beach with friends, rode horses, admired art and history in museums, and sand-boarded at the Huacachina desert oasis. This program challenged me to practice my Spanish daily, immersed me in a new culture, deepened my passion for nursing, expanded my professional network, and broadened my global perspective. I'm beyond grateful for this opportunity, and I will carry the friendships and memories I created during this study abroad experience with me forever.
I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
August 02, 2025by: Caroline Berryman - United StatesChoosing to study in Lima was one of the best choices I've ever made. Peru is an amazing country with so much to offer from the jungle to the mountains as well as the coast where we stayed. ISA made everything so easy as well. There was always someone to contact 24/7 if there was a problem, they provided us with so much information like restaurants to go to and things to do as well as what to watch out for and what to do if you need help. The whole time I felt safe and looked out for. I really enjoyed living with a host family because they taught me so much about the culture and current events that I wouldn't have learned on my own. 10/10 experience that I hope everyone gets to have one day.
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