Quarter In vs. Open Campus Block: Which Program Model is Best for You?
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Studying abroad isn’t one-size-fits-all – and that’s exactly why CIEE Study Abroad offers flexible study abroad options to match your academic calendar, goals, and sense of adventure. Two of our flexible options are our Quarter In and Open Campus Block programs. So, how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Quarter Study Abroad Programs: What to Know
CIEE’s Quarter In programs are designed specifically for students attending universities that follow a quarter-system calendar. These programs make it easy to earn credits abroad without disrupting your degree progress or returning to campus off-cycle.
Running up to 12.5 weeks (depending on the location and term), Quarter In programs are offered in 20+ cities around the world and provide a general studies format that fits seamlessly with quarter-based academic schedules. Students typically enroll in two consecutive six-week blocks, combining focused coursework with immersive cultural experiences in one destination.
Benefits of Quarter Study Abroad Programs
If you’re looking for a study abroad experience that fits neatly into your academic calendar while still giving you a deep cultural dive, Quarter In programs come with some major perks:
- Perfect for Quarter-System Students: Stay aligned with your home university’s academic calendar and degree requirements.
- Shorter Time Commitment: Great for students who want an international experience without spending a full semester or year abroad.
- Cultural Depth in One Destination: Focus on fully exploring a single city and building deeper local connections.
- Smooth Credit Transfer: Courses are designed to fit easily into quarter credit structures.
Considerations for Quarter Study Abroad Programs
Of course, no program model is perfect for every single student. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re considering Quarter In:
- One Destination Only: You’ll stay in one location, unlike Open Campus students who can travel between sites.
- Fewer Course Blocks: With just two six-week sessions, there’s slightly less academic variety than in a three-block Open Campus term.
Top Quarter Study Abroad Programs
Explore standout quarter programs around the world that combine academics, culture, and immersive experiences in some of today’s most exciting cities.
Program #1: Quarter in Prague
Study in one of Europe’s most storybook cities while earning credits, exploring art, history, business, and culture, and hopping between countries on weekends. With its café culture, iconic architecture, and central location, Prague makes everyday life feel like an adventure – and turns your quarter abroad into something unforgettable.
Excursion Highlight: Bike along the paths along the Vltava River and see another side of Prague
Program #2: Quarter in Seoul
Step into one of the world’s most dynamic cities and experience life in Seoul, where cutting-edge innovation meets centuries-old tradition. From K-culture, fashion, and technology to global business and incredible food, the city offers nonstop energy and endless ways to explore. With easy access to travel across Asia and a culture that’s always moving forward, a quarter in Seoul is bold, immersive, and exciting.
Excursion Highlight: Visit Jeonju to experience the charm of traditional hanok villages and savor its renowned culinary delights
Program #3: Quarter in Rome
Live at the crossroads of history and modern life in Rome, where ancient ruins, historic neighborhoods, and everyday Italian culture shape the city’s rhythm. From art, politics, and architecture to food, fashion, and social life, Rome turns the city itself into a living classroom. From ancient history to modern-day culture, Rome offers a quarter abroad that connects the past with the present.
Excursion Highlight: Wander through medieval hilltop towns like Orvieto or Assisi
Program #4: Quarter in Sydney
Experience life in Sydney, where iconic beaches and outdoor living shape everyday life. From coastal walks and café culture to innovation, sustainability, and the arts, the city offers a balance of energy and ease. With incredible scenery, year-round sunshine, and easy access to explore Australia and the region, a quarter in Sydney is equal parts adventure and lifestyle.
Excursion Highlight: Go on a hike at one of Sydney's national parks, like Wolli Creek Park, La Perouse Park, or Sydney Harbour National Park
Open Campus Study Abroad Programs: What to Know
CIEE’s Open Campus Block program is one of our most flexible study abroad options. Students can design their own study abroad experience by choosing up to three six-week blocks – in one, two, or three different locations across the globe (20+ cities to choose from).
From studying sustainability in Berlin to marketing in Cape Town, Open Campus Block programs let you mix and match courses and destinations to create your ideal academic and cultural experience.
Benefits of Open Campus Study Abroad Programs
If you’re the type of student who loves options – and wants to see more than one corner of the world – Open Campus Block programs might be your dream setup:
- Multi-City Flexibility: Study in up to three locations during one term – perfect for travelers who want to see the world.
- Customizable Academics: Choose courses across disciplines that fit your interests or major requirements.
- Broader Global Perspective: Experience different cultures, teaching styles, and global contexts in a single program.
- Open to All Academic Calendars: Works for students interested in semester, quarter, or summer terms alike.
Considerations for Open Campus Study Abroad Programs
That flexibility does come with a few *tiny* trade-offs. Here’s what to consider before you pack your bags:
- More Travel Logistics: Moving between locations means more planning and transitions.
- Less Cultural Immersion in One Place: You’ll split your time among cities rather than deeply embedding in one.
- Longer Overall Duration: Completing all three blocks requires a bigger time commitment than a Quarter In program.
Top Open Campus Block Programs
Explore multiple countries and disciplines in a single semester while gaining hands-on experience and cultural insights.
Program #1: London Open Campus Block
Dive into the heart of London’s creative, cultural, and academic scene while earning credits in one of the world’s most famous global cities.
Featured Excursion: Tour London’s world-class art galleries, from The National Gallery to Tate Modern.
Program #2: Seoul Open Campus Block
Experience the perfect blend of innovation and tradition in Seoul, where K-culture, cutting-edge tech, and rich history converge.
Featured Excursion: Visit Jeonju to experience the charm of traditional hanok villages and savor its renowned culinary delights.
Program #3: Madrid Open Campus Block
Live la vida madrileña as you study surrounded by art, sunshine, and Spain’s legendary café culture.
Featured Excursion: Take visits to popular neighborhoods in Lavapiés, Malasaña, or La Latina.
Program #4: Monteverde Open Campus Block
Immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s cloud forests and sustainability practices while learning where nature and science collide.
Featured Excursion: Experience biodiversity after the sun goes down with a guided hike in the forest.
Quarter vs. Open Campus Programs: Choosing Your Best-Fit Program Model
The best study abroad experience depends on your goals, schedule, and learning style. If your university follows a quarter system or you’re looking for a shorter, focused experience, CIEE’s Quarter In programs are a perfect fit. You’ll get the chance to live abroad for up to 12.5 weeks, immerse yourself deeply in one culture, and stay on track with your degree.
If you’re looking into multi location study abroad programs, want to take a wider variety of courses, or explore more global perspectives, Open Campus Block programs offer unmatched flexibility and adventure.
Whichever you choose, both models give you the chance to earn credit, gain global experience, and grow personally and academically – all while living somewhere incredible.
Explore Open Campus and Quarter Study Abroad Programs with CIEE
From quick, immersive quarters to multi-city adventures, CIEE has a study abroad path for every kind of student. Study what you love, live where you’ve always dreamed, and make the world your campus!