The Ultimate Guide to Quarter Study Abroad Programs at CIEE

We offer just about every academic track you can think of with our quarter study abroad programs! This allows students like YOU to earn credits toward your degree all while exploring the world. Talk about a win-win!  

We offer high-quality (and fun) courses in the following areas of study:  

• Art and Architecture
• Business
• Communication, New Media, and Journalism
• Global and Community Health
• International Relations and Political Science
• Language, Literature, and Culture
• Engineering  

No matter what you’re studying, you’ll stay on track with your coursework in our quarter study abroad programs.

Most Popular Cities for Quarter Study Abroad  

When it comes to designing your own study abroad quarter, we offer options in 23 amazing cities around the world: 

• Abu Dhabi: A modern metropolis blending futuristic architecture with rich Emirati traditions
• Amsterdam: Famous for its canals, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam is both historic and dynamic
• Athens: A historic capital where ancient landmarks, Mediterranean culture, and modern city life come together
• Auckland: New Zealand’s largest city offers stunning natural landscapes alongside a lively urban lifestyle
• Berlin: An incredible, European economic hub full of complex history and cool, modern culture
• Buenos Aires: Beautiful and lively, this multicultural cosmopolitan city is an ideal study abroad location
• Cape Town: A stunning city packed with history and natural beauty
• Copenhagen: Known for its happy culture, beautiful canals, and biking, this is one unique city
• Dublin: An enchanting city esteemed for its greenery, history, and pub culture
• Kyoto: An ancient cultural capital of Japan, boasting teahouses, temples, and beautiful natural landscapes
• London: Known for its history, global impact, and interesting attractions, this multicultural city is a great place to meet people from all over the world
• Milan: Italy’s fashion and design capital, full of style, culture, and historic landmarks
• Madrid: A lively city packed with culture, fútbol, and delicious cuisine
• Monteverde: Regarded for its ecological practices and wildlife, Monteverde is a fascinating natural city
• Paris: An iconic city featuring some of the world’s most famous museums, galleries, and attractions
• Prague: A storybook city of cobblestone streets, historic castles, and a vibrant arts scene
• Rome: Italy's historic capital known for its culture, museums, and out-of-this-world cuisine
• Santiago: Boasting fun nightlife, attractions, and culture, this is one extraordinary city  
• Seoul: A high-energy city where ancient palaces and traditions meet cutting-edge technology and pop culture
• Shanghai: An impressive modern city known for its incredible landmarks and museums
• Singapore: With a thriving economic center, natural beauty, and efficient, modern culture, Singapore is fascinating
• Sydney: Famous for its beaches, attractions, and architecture, you can’t beat the beautiful city of Sydney
• Mérida: Discover rainforests, jungles, and incredible ancient history in this marvelous city

No matter where you decide to go on your quarter study abroad program, you’ll be delighted at every turn – each of these locations guarantees an incredible study abroad experience!  

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to CIEE Open Campus Block

• Length: 12 weeks
• Credit: 6-7 per Block semester hours/9-10.5 per Block quarter hours
• Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
• Excursion Highlight: Take in spectacular views from the top of the Berlin TV Tower, the tallest building in Germany

2. Quarter in Kyoto

Experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity in Kyoto, where ancient temples, gardens, and tea ceremonies meet contemporary culture. Students can immerse themselves in Japanese history, arts, and everyday life.

Program details:  

• Length: 12 weeks
• Credit: 6-7 per Block semester hours/9-10.5 per Block quarter hours
• Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
• Excursion Highlight: Visit a World Heritage Site, like the 400-year-old Njio Castle or the home of Japanese green tea, Uji, in Kyoto

3. Quarter in Buenos Aires

Step into the heart of Argentina with its passionate culture, lively tango, and world-class cuisine. Students can explore history, arts, and urban life in a city full of energy and creativity.

Program details:  

• Length: 12 weeks
• Credit: 6-7 per Block semester hours/9-10.5 per Block quarter hours
• Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
• Excursion Highlight: Enjoy a private tango lesson followed by a visit to a milonga to experience the local dance culture firsthand

4. Quarter in London

From historic landmarks to cutting-edge museums, London offers endless opportunities to learn, explore, and connect. Students can dive into British culture, arts, and global perspectives in this dynamic metropolis.

Program details:  

• Length: 12 weeks
• Credit: 6-7 per Block semester hours/9-10.5 per Block quarter hours
• Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
• Excursion Highlight: Tour London’s world-class art galleries, from The National Gallery to Tate Modern

Quarter Study Abroad Scholarships 

We award millions in scholarships and grants each year to help make study abroad dreams a reality for as many students as possible. We offer special awards for each of our programs, including quarter study abroad programs.  

Because the quarter system is slightly different than a typical semester system, we break down our scholarships based on blocks – two consecutive blocks (like summer blocks or Open Campus Blocks) equal one quarter! So, any eligible quarter student will receive aid for an entire quarter.  

Our scholarships are bucketed in three types:  

• Need-Based Quarter Scholarships: Based on students’ Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) and their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Merit Quarter Scholarships: Based on academic achievement
• Other Quarter Scholarships: Based on other factors like program, alumni status, or enrolled institution 

Make sure to explore our quarter study abroad scholarships page to learn more about applying! We’re always available if you have extra questions, too.  

Read More: How to Apply to a Study Abroad Scholarship at CIEE: 4 Steps

Quarter Study Abroad FAQs

Got questions about quarter study abroad programs? We’ve got answers to help you decide when, where, and how to make the most of your global experience.

Q: Is it good to study abroad for a quarter?

A: Yes! A quarter study abroad program is an excellent way to experience life in another country while staying on track academically. It offers the perfect balance of flexibility and immersion – giving you enough time to explore, earn credits, and build global skills without stepping away from your campus for too long. Quarter programs are especially great for students who want to fit study abroad into their degree plan more easily.

Q: What is the best quarter to study abroad?

A: Any quarter can be a great time to study abroad – it all depends on your academic schedule, travel goals, and the type of experience you’re looking for. A spring quarter study abroad might be perfect if you want to start the year with an adventure, while a summer quarter study abroad offers flexibility between academic terms. A fall quarter study abroad lets you kick off the school year in a new culture, and a winter quarter study abroad is ideal if you want to explore your destination during the cooler season. Factors like your major requirements, climate preferences, and internship plans can help determine which quarter fits best.

Q: Is it better to study abroad for a quarter, semester, or a year?

A: There’s no “better” option, it all depends on your goals and circumstances. Quarter study abroad programs are great for students who want a shorter, flexible experience. Semester study abroad offers deeper cultural immersion while still aligning with most academic calendars. Year-long study abroad allows for full integration into your host community. No matter how long you go, studying abroad with CIEE means world-class academics, cultural discovery, and 24/7 on-site support.

Design Your Quarter Study Abroad Program at CIEE

A quarter study abroad program is an exciting way to explore the world and expand your horizons – get started today!