Study Abroad in San Juan
College Study Abroad
Explore San Juan with CIEE
Step into a city where history meets tropical energy when you study abroad in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Stroll through the colorful cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, explore centuries-old forts, and savor the island’s rich flavors at local eateries and bustling markets. From sun-soaked beaches to El Yunque rainforest adventures, San Juan offers endless ways to explore both nature and culture. Dive into academic programs that connect you with the island’s unique heritage, arts scene, and environmental challenges. With a vivacious community and a blend of old-world charm and modern Caribbean vibes, San Juan study abroad promises an inspiring mix of learning, adventure, and personal growth!
While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in San Juan, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including tourism, pharmaceuticals, finance, manufacturing and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Top Activities in San Juan with CIEE
Every CIEE San Juan study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In San Juan, excursions may include:
- Participating in a guided tour of the bioluminescent caves of Fajardo, where you can kayak through glowing waters and experience the magical phenomenon of bioluminescence as you navigate the caves at night
- Hiking through El Yunque National Forest, where you’ll explore waterfalls, swim in natural pools, and discover diverse wildlife
- Joining a cultural walking tour of Old San Juan, where you’ll visit colorful colonial buildings, explore historic forts like El Morro, and learn about Puerto Rico’s fascinating history and vibrant arts scene
Academics in San Juan
CIEE San Juan
Our location in San Juan places students in the heart of Puerto Rico’s incredible capital, where you can explore the colorful streets, lively markets and historic Old San Juan.
Arizona State University (ASU)
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Internships in San Juan
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in San Juan. The city’s diverse work scene spans tourism, finance, healthcare, and creative industries, with opportunities in innovative businesses, nonprofits, and multinational organizations. With a bilingual, multicultural environment that supports collaboration and networking, San Juan offers a dynamic setting to gain hands-on experience and build global skills. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Health Science
- Manufacturing
- Finance
Community Impact Initiative in San Juan
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with San Juan by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to meaningful, lasting impact. Your experience may span key focus areas like Food Security, Community Development + Public Health, and Youth Development + Education initiatives.
In San Juan, your service work may include:
- Supporting coral reef restoration, marine conservation, and environmental education efforts with Sociedad Ambiente Marino
- Assisting with classroom activities, student engagement, and educational programming at Caribbean Global School
San Juan Study Abroad Programs
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Full-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Full-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Study Program
Pocket Guide to San Juan
Currency
U.S. Dollar
Spoken Language
Spanish, English
Available Transportation
Buses, subway, trolley
Famous Local
Rapper Bad Bunny is from the island and has lived in San Juan
Climate
70s to 90s year-round
Did You Know?
Puerto Rico competes as its own team in the Olympics and Miss Universe
Airport
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
Social Norms
Hearing people speak “Spanglish” is common throughout Puerto Rico
What to Pack
Waterproof bag, shoes, beach towel
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of study abroad in San Juan varies depending on the program you choose and how long you plan to go for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each of the individual San Juan college study abroad programs.
For costs not included in the outlined fees, you'll want to consider factors surrounding your journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Students love to study abroad in San Juan, Puerto Rico thanks to its vibrant culture, divine cuisine, thrilling outdoor activities, and pristine beaches. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, indulging in local delicacies, or enjoying the natural beauty of nearby rainforests and coastlines, there’s always something to discover.
Plus, while Spanish is widely spoken, many residents are fluent in English, making it easy to navigate and connect with locals. San Juan truly offers the best of both worlds for study abroad students!
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in San Juan to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
Need-Based Scholarships
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Merit Scholarships
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Other Scholarships
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
San Juan Study Abroad Blog
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