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CIEE Semester in Yucatan, Mexico (Outgoing Program) Print  Save  Share
  • Locations: Merida, Mexico
  • Program Terms: Fall, Spring
  • Homepage: Click to visit
  • Program Sponsor: CIEE 
  • Restrictions: U of U applicants only
Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Program Start Date Program End Date
Spring 2026 11/01/2025 ** 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.
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Click here for a definition of this term Program Category: Affiliate Click here for a definition of this term Minimum GPA: 2.5
Click here for a definition of this term Housing Type(s): Homestay Click here for a definition of this term Home Campus: U of U: Utah Campus
Click here for a definition of this term Credit Type: Undergraduate Transfer Click here for a definition of this term Language(s) of Instruction: English, Spanish
Click here for a definition of this term Minimum Language Prerequisite: Advanced English Language Fluency, Check with Affiliate Click here for a definition of this term Badge Opportunities: Independent Options
Click here for a definition of this term Field of Study: Accounting, Agriculture, Anthropology, Archeology, Architectural Studies, Art, Art History, Astronomy, Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Communication, Computer Science, Design, Economics, Education, Education, Culture, & Society, Engineering, English, Entrepreneurship, Environmental & Sustainability Studies, Environmental Science, Exercise & Sports Science, Finance, Geography, Health, International Studies, Law, Linguistics, Management, Marketing, Mathematics, Music, Parks, Recreation, & Tourism, Philosophy, Physics, Psychology, Public Health, Sociology, Theatre, University Studies, Urban Ecology Click here for a definition of this term Eligibility: Good Academic & Judicial Standing, Minimum Age: 18, OPEN to ALL Majors
Click here for a definition of this term Pre-departure Requirements: Learning Abroad 101, Pre-Departure Orientation, Participation Requirements for Learning Abroad, Pre-decision & Post-decision Steps, Travel Health Clearance
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



 

WHAT IS AN AFFILIATE?

An Affiliate is a partner organization that is evaluated and approved by the University of Utah. Affiliates offer classes in both English and the host language. You may take classes with other U.S. students, international students, or students from the host country. Many affiliates provide special services such as visa support, housing, cultural excursions, and on-site staffing to help you navigate your host country.

APPLYING TO AN AFFILIATE PROGRAM

  1. Complete Learning Abroad 101. This is a short information session about programs, applications, financial aid, and scholarships. You can complete Learning Abroad 101 online.
  2. Submit your Applications. You will submit TWO Applications for this Program. These Applications can be completed at the same time.
    • U of U Application- Click Apply Now at the top of your screen to get started 
    • Affiliate Application- Click on the Homepage link above to find your Affiliate Application. Contact the Affiliate if you have questions.
  3. Commit to your U of U Application. You will receive an acceptance email to your Umail account. Log into your U of U Application and Commit to your Program within 3 business days of acceptance!
  4. Complete the Post-Decision Steps. Finish the Post-Decision steps in your U of U Application by the deadlines provided.

ACADEMICS & ACCOMMODATION

DATES & TRANSPORTATION

  • TENTATIVE dates are listed above. Compare the dates to the University of Utah academic calendar to avoid scheduling conflicts.
  • You are responsible for arranging transportation to and from the host country for most Programs.
  • Do not purchase your flight until you read the instructions in the Learning Abroad Handbook.

LEARNING ABROAD BADGES

Students enrich their time abroad by earning Learning Abroad Badges such as:
Badge Opportunities
This Program is eligible for the Badges listed in the Fact Sheet above. Some Programs offer opportunities to earn additional Learning Abroad Badges through independent options. Click here to learn more about the Global U Program.

FINANCES

  • Scholarships and Financial Aid may be available. Visit our Financial Aid and Scholarships page for more information.
  • Contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid to determine if your financial aid and scholarships can be applied to your Learning Abroad program
  • Information about Program Costs, Billing timelines & Due Dates are available to help you plan. 
  • Affiliate Program Fees (non-billable) are established by the Affiliate and are in addition to any fees paid to the University of Utah. These fees are paid in lieu of University of Utah on-campus tuition and housing costs. Click on the homepage link above for more information on Affiliate fees and inclusions.
  • Read the full Withdrawal & Dismissal Penalty Policy before applying.

PROGRAM ADVISING

LEARNING ABROAD HANDBOOK

Interested in learning more about the academic, financial, and logistical aspects of our Programs? The Learning Abroad Handbook outlines the University of Utah's financial, disciplinary, administrative, academic, and logistical expectations. You’ll find videos, tips, and resources that help you make the most of your experience before, during, and after your Program.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

It is your responsibility to read, understand, and adhere to the terms and conditions of your Program. Terms and conditions are outlined in the Learning Abroad Handbook, Learning Abroad website, and in your Program Application. Terms and conditions may also be communicated to you through digital, verbal, and hard copy communication. Contact Learning Abroad with any questions or concerns.