April 23, 2024
4.6 - 59 Reviews

Study Abroad in Guatemala

Guatemala, the heart of Central America, is a captivating nation renowned for its rich indigenous heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural tapestry. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Guatemala's history and natural beauty converge to create a unique destination that offers a blend of tradition and modernity.

With a diverse population that embodies the warmth of Central American hospitality, Guatemala stands as a cultural and geographical crossroads of the region. The capital city, Guatemala City, serves as a dynamic hub that encapsulates the nation's essence, featuring bustling markets, colonial-era architecture, and the timeless allure of nearby Antigua's cobbled streets and historic ruins. Guatemala City is not only a center of commerce but also a hub of education, providing a range of academic opportunities and diverse experiences for international students.

The city's landscape is a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern energy, where you can traverse from the historic district of Zone 1, with its colonial plazas and vibrant street art, to the contemporary neighborhoods that host galleries, theaters, and international festivals.

While the number of American students choosing to study in Guatemala might be more modest compared to some other destinations, those who do opt for this Central American gem find themselves immersed in a rich linguistic and cultural environment. Learning about indigenous cultures, engaging with local communities, and delving into Latin American studies become immersive and transformative experiences. Guatemala's academic allure is not confined to classrooms but extends to its bustling markets, Mayan archaeological sites, and the warmth of its people.

Safety is a top priority for students and travelers, and Guatemala has taken significant steps to enhance security for visitors. While Guatemala City and major tourist areas are generally safe, it's important for students to remain informed about local guidelines, respect local customs, and exercise the same level of caution as they would in any new environment.

Beyond the city, Guatemala unveils a mesmerizing array of landscapes and natural wonders. From the ancient ruins of Tikal, nestled within the dense jungle, to the picturesque Lake Atitlán surrounded by volcanoes, from the colorful markets of Chichicastenango to the serene beauty of Semuc Champey's natural pools, Guatemala showcases diversity and natural splendor.

The surrounding landscape is a lifeline for Guatemala, offering fertile soils, stunning vistas, and a connection to the country's ancestral roots. Indigenous traditions are woven into daily life, and visitors can experience these cultural practices firsthand through local festivals, artisan workshops, and interactions with Mayan communities.

Guatemala is more than a destination; it's a journey of discovery. As you embark on your academic adventure, let the country's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes guide you, revealing a world where tradition and progress harmoniously coexist.

Here, you'll find a compilation of Study Abroad and Exchange programs in Guatemala. This collection presents various opportunities tailored to American college and university students, ranging from specialized coursework to internships and community engagement initiatives. We encourage you to explore student reviews, compare programs, and set a course for an immersive Guatemalan experience.

For a deeper exploration of Guatemala's treasures, we invite you to discover Guatemala's Official Tourism Portal.

Top Cities to Study Abroad

1. Quetzaltenango 24 reviews
2. Antigua 23 reviews
3. Guatemala City 20 reviews
4. Traveling in Guatemala 13 reviews
5. Magdalena 10 reviews
See All

Study Abroad in Guatemala - Featured Programs

Study Abroad in Guatemala - All Programs

Sort by: Default | Name ▼| Rating | Popularity | Country
Study Abroad Reviews for Students International: Academic Mission Study Abroad Programs
Students International: Academic Mission Study Abroad Programs

Students International partners with the following institutions to run accredited academic mission study abroad programs to Guatemala, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. You can fi...

5.0

1 review
Study Abroad Reviews for SEMILLA: Guatemala City - CASAS / Central America Study and Service Program
SEMILLA: Guatemala City - CASAS / Central America Study and Service Program

Spanish language, intercultural study and service in Guatemala Frequently asked questions Looking for a chance to immerse yourself in another culture? Wishing there was a ...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for Proyecto Lingüístico Quetzalteco de Español / PLQE: Quetzaltenango - Spanish Language Immersion
Proyecto Lingüístico Quetzalteco de Español / PLQE: Quetzaltenango - Spanish Language Immersion

La Hermandad Educativa is committed to quality language instruction in a context that gives students an awareness of the social, political and economic realities of Guatem...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for Pacific Discovery: Central America Semester
Pacific Discovery: Central America Semester
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala: Havana, Cuba: Belize plus 3 other locations

Challenge yourself on this Central America gap year program journeying through the ancient ruins and spectacular land and seascapes of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Costa ...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for Operation Groundswell: Experiential Education & Community Service in Guatemala
Operation Groundswell: Experiential Education & Community Service in Guatemala

Nestled in Central America, Guatemala has one of the most interesting, yet tragic histories. Home to the Mayan civilization, invaded by the Spanish, and eventually ruled b...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for North Carolina State University: Ethnographic Field School Guatemala
North Carolina State University: Ethnographic Field School Guatemala

Live and work with an indigenous Guatemalan family in the Lake Atitlán area of the Western Highlands. Lear...

5.0

2 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for Máximo Nivel: Intensive Spanish Immersion
Máximo Nivel: Intensive Spanish Immersion

Our Native Spanish Program appeals to adventure seekers, working professionals, and entire families because we offer the most intensive and professional Spanish programs a...

3.5

1 review
Study Abroad Reviews for Máximo Nivel: Faculty-Led and Custom University Programs
Máximo Nivel: Faculty-Led and Custom University Programs

Maximo Nivel is a family-owned organization founded in 2003. We own and operate four locally-based educational institutes in three of the world’s most beautiful countries—...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for Manna Project International: Guatemala - MPI Guatemala Programs
Manna Project International: Guatemala - MPI Guatemala Programs

MPI Guatemala believes in the dignity and strength of every man and woman.  As partners of the communities in which we work, we coordinate our services and skills in conju...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for Love Volunteers: Worldwide - Volunteer Placement and Support Services
Love Volunteers: Worldwide - Volunteer Placement and Support Services
Albania: Bangladesh: Cambodia plus 29 other locations

We have volunteers from all over the world, but most of them come from North America, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Korea and Japan. Voluntee...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for IPSL: Make a World of Difference on IPSL's Graduate Program
IPSL: Make a World of Difference on IPSL's Graduate Program
Cape Town, South Africa: Cartagena, Colombia: Hanoi, Vietnam plus 3 other locations

Financial Aid is available for eligible students. IPSL also accepts AmeriCorps Segal Education awards Grad...

0.0

0 reviews
Study Abroad Reviews for IPSL: Guatemala - Ecology, Culture and Justice
IPSL: Guatemala - Ecology, Culture and Justice

Financial Aid is available for eligible students. IPSL also accepts AmeriCorps Segal Education awards.Join...

4.3

2 reviews