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CIEE Semester in Yucatan, Mexico (Outgoing Program) Print 
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Click here for a definition of this term Class Standing: Junior, Senior, Sophomore Program Type: study abroad
GPA Requirement: 2.5 Housing: Homestay
Fields of Study: Accounting, Advertising, Anthropological Linguistics, Anthropology, Apparel Design, Archaeology, Art History, Astronomy, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Digital Media, Ecology & Systematics, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Environmental Science, Finance, General Engineering, General Health Studies, Geography, Interior Design, International Business Administration, International Studies, Journalism, Legal Studies, Management, Marketing, Mathematical Statistics, Multiculture Studies, Philosophy, Photography, Physics, Psychology, Public Relations, Theatre, World Literature Language of Instruction: English, Spanish
Program Description:

Semester in Yucatan

YUCATAN, MEXICO

Browse Program

Program Overview

Spend a semester living and learning in Yucatán, a scenic peninsula ideally situated in the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you’ll have an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Mayan culture while living with a Mexican family to deeply immerse you in the local community. Mérida, the historic capital of Yucatán, serves as a vibrant hub for students, providing a blend of colonial heritage and modern amenities. Delve into the region's fascinating history, explore nearby ancient ruins, and engage with welcoming locals, all while earning academic credits toward your degree.

When class is in session, you’ll choose from a diverse range of subject areas, from environmental studies and STEM to communication and history, ensuring your courses enrich your educational journey. All courses are designed to complement the local culture, giving you a deeper understanding of the subjects through hands-on experiences and excursions to significant sites like Chichén Itzá and the mangroves of Corchito.

utside the classroom, practical learning extends to optional for-credit internships and volunteering opportunities, allowing you to contribute to local organizations and gain professional experience in your field of study. This will not only enhance your resume but also foster a meaningful connection with the community and its development.

The CIEE Yucatán Center, situated in the heart of Mérida, provides a supportive environment set within a stunning colonial building and surrounded by beautiful parks, galleries, and restaurants. It's an ideal setting for you to thrive academically, culturally, and personally while in Yucatán.

Unique Experiences

Immerse yourself in the rich Mayan culture

by visiting the Gran Museo del Munda Maya, which offers a deep dive into the history and traditions of the Mayan people

Explore the Mayapán archaeological zone

to gain a hands-on experience with ancient ruins and a glimpse into past civilizations

Live the vibrant city life of Mérida

and experience its picturesque streets and squares, plethora of local cuisine, and unique artisan markets to explore

Read more about Yucatán

Excursions & Activities

Excursions are integral to creating a holistic learning experience.?Host Institutions provide cultural excursions, supplementing those provided by CIEE, which are designed to further support students in adapting interculturally, building understanding, and communicating effectively.?

The itineraries are designed to promote cultural self-awareness, cultural literacy, and the ability to bridge cultural gaps.?Through interactive activities and exercises, students are encouraged to consider issues of culture, identity, values, beliefs, and assumptions.?Ultimately, students develop competencies to expose themselves to new and unfamiliar experiences.?Specific destinations and content will vary from semester to semester depending on local conditions.

Examples include the following:

  • Chichén Itzá: Chichen Itzá was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988. Students learn how the ancient Maya used science, math, and technology in their daily life and how STEM impacts more recent Mayan culture, including architecture, agriculture, and water conservation.?Students also explore more ancient uses of science and technology in Chichen Itza.
  • Progreso/El Corchito: By visiting El Corchito, students see the diverse flora and fauna of the region and enjoy a boat ride through the lagoon to get to the mangroves.?After the ride through the reserve, students go to Progreso beach and enjoy a typical Yucatecan lunch.
  • Punta Laguna: Punta Laguna is a nature reserve that offers one of the most unique sightseeing attractions in all of Yucatán: Spider monkeys. The creatures are a top draw for the reserve, which also showcases jaguars, pumas, howler monkeys, and dozens of bird species.?During this trip, students learn the basic ecology of native forests, coral reefs, mangroves, sea grass beds, freshwater rivers, and cenotes.

What's Included

  • Tuition
  • Housing
  • Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
  • Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
  • Three-day orientation – an introduction to Spanish culture, your academic program, and the city, plus practical information about living in your host city
  • Full-time program leadership and support in your host city
  • Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
  • Excursions and/or Study Tours
  • Insurance and other travel benefits, with CIEE iNext
  • 24/7 emergency on-site support

1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!

GAIN Travel Grants - up to $2,000 toward travel costs guaranteed to all Pell-elgible students.

Gilman Go Global Grants - $2,500/semester and $1,000/summer, guaranteed to all Gilman applications.

Merit-Based Scholarships - $2,500/semester and $750/summer, awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.

Minority Serving Institutions (MIS) Grant - $2,000/semester and $500/summer, guaranteed to all students attending MSIs.

Learn more

Why CIEE

  • 200+ study abroad programs in 40+ countries
  • $8 million in scholarships offered each year
  • 1 in 3 students receives a scholarship
  • Study tours and cultural activities included
  • Internships and volunteering opportunities
  • Rigorous academics
  • Cultural immersion
  • iNext travel insurance included

Questions?

Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.

Contact Us


Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Spring 2026 10/15/2025 ** Rolling Admission TBA TBA

** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.