Study Abroad in the Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos is a British overseas territory located in the Atlantic Ocean southeast of the Bahamas and 600 miles from Miami but is still considered part of the Caribbean culture. Home to the third largest barrier reef in the world, the largest above ground caves in the Caribbean, an abundance of natural sea salt accumulation areas, and the site of the annual Humpback whale migration, this tropical paradise consisting of 230 miles of the softest sandy beaches on earth, has quickly become a trendy tourist destination. There are 30 islands in the Turks & Caicos territories with eight being inhabited, so there is plenty or room to explore! 

Providenciales is the most well known of the Turks and Caicos Islands and is the center of the tourism industry with a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Grand Turk and Salt Cay offer a glimpse into Caribbean history with great Bermudian architecture and a rustic charm. Some of the best diving and probably the most “relaxing” time you will ever have while studying in Turks and Caicos will happen here. 

Middle Caicos and North Caicos. With lush green woodlands, the biggest cave network in the Caribbean on Middle Caicos, cottage pond and flamingo pond in North Caicos and a vast range of plant life and birdlife, Middle and North Caicos represent the best of this biodiversity hotspot. . 

South Caicos. The center for fishing, with lobster and conch exported from the islands, the historic Cockburn harbor and the natural phenomenon of the boiling hole, South Caicos can’t be beat. This small yet friendly island offers many secluded beaches with awe inspiring views of the turquoise waters and surrounding islands. The School of Field Studies Center for Marine Resource Studies (SFS), is a top destination in the world for students interested in immersing themselves in marine studies, is located there and is located near coral reefs, uninhabited cays, and seagrass beds, making it a snorkel and diving lovers dream spot.

Studying in Turks and Caicos will be the best decision you ever make, but what should you study when you actually get there??? Here are some ideas to get you started:

Marine Resource Studies. Students are provided the opportunity to earn about tropical marine ecology, evaluate fisheries management and policies, and practice field research skills in one of the most pristine marine habitats in the tropical Western Atlantic. Excursion to neighboring Providenciales, Middle Caicos, and North Caicos: tour aquaculture operations and desalination plants; explore the caves and bat colonies of Middle Caicos; discover the tropical dry forests of North Caicos; absorb local ecological knowledge of bush medicines and foods; study the rich cultural history of the territory. Evaluate the abundance of queen conch inside and outside of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and interpret how the data reflects protected area effectiveness.

Applied Marine Research Techniques. When you study abroad in Turks & Caicos, you’ll love the spectacular reefs, turquoise waters, and island community of South Caicos, which will serve as the laboratories for studies and field work. Research sites, field exercises, and excursions including exploring coral reefs, fringe and island mangrove ecosystems, and extensive seagrass meadows. Examine anthropogenic impacts to nearshore ecosystems, valuing ecosystems of TCI for coastal planning decisions

Tropical Marine Ecosystems. Monitoring and Management summer program provides students with the opportunity to gain an understanding of tropical and sub-tropical marine ecosystems; develop skills, both in and out of water, to monitor the health and conservation status of tropical marine ecosystems; and identify and engage with stakeholders to design and enact effective marine policy. Students learn about key aspects of environmental assessment and management of tropical marine ecosystems and explore sustainable development strategies for the Turks & Caicos Islands at a local and global scale. Students support the work of our clients and stakeholders, who range from local fishers to members of key government agencies.

Cost for one year tuition and room and board studying abroad in Turks and Caicos will run around $23,000 and summer programs are around $6,300. Don’t forget to include personal expenses as well up to $5,000 for things such as airfare and personal spending money. A passport, if you do not already have one, as well as vaccinations, will run you around $1,000 total. These programs aren’t easy on the pocketbook but studying abroad is an investment in your future! Need based scholarships are available to all students for most programs. 

Consider creating a FundMyTravel account to fund your study abroad in Turks & Caicos if you are in need of extra resources to fund your study abroad desires. Also consider researching possible scholarships that you might be eligible for out there by clicking here.

Types of housing available for students studying abroad in Turks & Caicos include dorms, homestays, apartments, or hostels. The option you choose depends on the type of experience you prefer and what your bank account will allow. 

If you are submitting an application for a Turks and Caicos student visa, you will also submit an acceptance letter from a college or a school within the islands, proof that you are financially stable while studying on the islands, and have already secured accommodations in advance. A clean police record and a medical certificate are also required. Finally, if you are granted a student visa, know that you will not be able to transition to a work permit. Be sure and check the embassy directory for more detailed info.

Studying abroad in Turks and Caicos might just be the best thing you decide to do in your entire life. It will not only prepare you for your future, but it will give you a bigger world view and a broader insight of other cultures, customs, and activities you might not have ever experienced otherwise. New foods, new friends, new languages, and a new appreciation for your little place in the world are all positives to be gained.

When visiting Turks & Caicos be sure you protect yourself from sea lice (jellyfish larvae) with sea lice spray when you are in the ocean, and don’t forget your bug spray when you are on land. The mosquitos are waiting for you to arrive! Also pack plenty of coral safe sunscreen or plan to pay double once you get there. Study in Turks and Caicos and enjoy living in paradise while doing so!