Study Abroad Programs in Peru

Prepare to Study Abroad

Set goals

Your goals will shape your study abroad experience in Peru, acting as both your foundation and compass for how you spend your time, what you learn, and how deeply you connect.

• Focus on what makes Peru unique. This is your chance to study topics like Incan archaeology, biodiversity in the Amazon, or colonial legacies through a new lens.
• Get involved beyond the classroom. Join a festival, learn a traditional dance, or explore local markets. These experiences build a deeper connection to where you are.
• Commit to growing your language skills. Whether it’s practicing Spanish or picking up some Quechua, every conversation helps you feel more at home.

Understand the benefits

Studying in Peru gives you more than just credits. It gives you context. You’ll learn through the place as much as the program.

• Study in a place where what you learn isn’t just in a textbook. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or navigating everyday life in the city, what you see and do helps everything click.
• Get a feel for a different academic rhythm. Classes might be more discussion-based or community-focused, and the learning style can be refreshingly hands-on.
• Come away with a broader view. Living in Peru means seeing how history, culture, and daily life all connect. That perspective sticks with you.

Things to know

You don’t need to know everything about Andean culture or be fluent in Spanish to thrive in Peru, but a few practical things help.

• Academic calendar - Most universities in Peru run on a semester system, with classes starting in March and August.
• Climate variations - The weather depends on where you are—coastal cities are dry, the highlands are cooler, and the Amazon is hot and humid year-round.
• Housing options - You can stay with a host family for a more immersive experience, or go for a student residence if you want more independence.
• Visa requirements - You might need a student visa depending on your nationality and how long you're staying. Check with your program or the nearest Peruvian consulate to be sure.

Choose a Location

Peru is no small country, so study abroad program options are quite varied. From a developing urban setting to something more far-flung, students can scout a diverse menu of options before selecting the perfect semester or summer of study abroad in Peru.

Lima

Lima blends colonial charm with a fast-paced, modern vibe. You’ll find top universities, nightlife, malls, and incredible food (don’t skip the ceviche). It’s perfect for students drawn to urban life, global business, or culture—all with ocean views and a coastal breeze to balance it out.

Cusco

Cusco sits in the Andes and feels like a living history book. It’s touristy but rich in culture, with easy access to ruins like Machu Picchu. Great for archaeology or anthropology students who don’t mind unpredictable weather and want daily life mixed with local tradition and global visitors.

Arequipa

Arequipa is calm, scenic, and slightly off the radar. Its white volcanic stone buildings and three surrounding volcanoes give it serious charm. It’s ideal if you want something immersive, less touristy, and still full of weekend adventures—like exploring the Colca Canyon, Nazca Lines, or even crossing into Bolivia.

Choose a Field

Studying in Peru opens up options you might not find at home. The courses here tie directly into the place.

History

Peru is layered with civilizations, not just the Incas. You’ll find classes that explore the rise and fall of empires, and many include visits to ruins or archaeological sites. Learning from local professors on-site gives these courses real depth. You won’t just read about history, you’ll walk through it.

Literature

Latin America’s literary identity has deep roots in Peru, shaped by voices like Mario Vargas Llosa and the Latin Boom. Studying literature here means more than reading. You’ll explore the places that shaped the stories and see how culture, politics, and history come alive on the page.

Spanish

If building fluency is on your list, this is a good place to start. Peruvian Spanish is known for being clear and beginner-friendly, and classes are available for all levels. You can focus on conversation, writing, or even pronunciation. You’ll learn fast, just by living your daily life.

Tips & Advice

Studying in Peru is part classroom, part cultural deep dive, and 100% an experience you’ll carry with you. Here's how to get the ball rolling:

1. Get matched

Head to the GoAbroad Online Advisor to get matched with programs that align with what you want to study, when you want to go, and how you want to learn. Your best options land straight in your inbox.

2. Choose a program

Sign in to MyGoAbroad to compare programs side by side. Reading student reviews and program details makes it easier to find the one that really clicks.

3. Decide when to go

When you go can shape what your experience looks like.

• Summer - Ideal for shorter programs and travel-friendly weather. Peru is full of festivals this time of year.
• Fall - A quieter season that’s great for academic focus and fewer crowds at major sites.
• Winter - Some areas cool down, but it’s still a solid time for city-based programs or language study.
• Spring - Green landscapes, comfortable temps, and the start of cultural events and outdoor excursions.

4. Funding & scholarships

Don’t let costs hold you back. Use the GoAbroad Scholarships & Deals form to see what scholarships or discounts are available for your chosen program.

5. Apply

Once you’ve picked your program, click “Apply Now” or “Inquire Here” on the listing. A coordinator will help walk you through next steps, deadlines, and what documents you’ll need.

6. Get your essentials

Before you head to Peru, make sure all your travel basics are covered. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your return date. If your program lasts longer than 90 days, you’ll likely need a student visa. Start that process early, since it can take some time. Once you’re accepted, book your flight, sort out your housing, and grab travel insurance for peace of mind. It’s the little logistics that make the big adventure run smoothly.