Study Abroad in Mérida
College Study Abroad
Explore Mérida with CIEE
Step into a city where ancient roots and modern life intertwine when you study abroad in Mérida, Mexico, situated on the Yucatán Peninsula. Wander cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, practice your Spanish in open-air markets, and explore nearby wonders like the cenotes of Homún, the ancient ruins of Uxmal, and the flamingo-filled lagoons of Celestún. Catch live music in Plaza Grande, cool off with a marquesita from a local street vendor, or visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya to deepen your understanding of the region’s Indigenous heritage. With its vibrant culture, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, Mérida study abroad offers an unforgettable experience in one of Mexico’s most charming cities.
While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in Mérida designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, Spanish language, the arts, science, sustainability, engineering, and more. Beyond the classroom, you can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as hospitality, health science, the arts, marketing, manufacturing, education, and human services, gaining valuable international work experience. By combining academics with hands-on learning, Mérida study abroad gives you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while experiencing the traditions, history, and natural beauty of the Yucatán firsthand.
Top Activities in Mérida with CIEE
Every Mérida study abroad semester program has frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s curriculum and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Mérida, past tours and excursions have included:
- Exploring the ruins of Chichén Itzá, perhaps the most famous pre-Columbian site built by the Maya and one of the Seven Wonders of the World
- Visiting beautiful underground cenotes at Cuzama and experiencing a journey on a “truk,” a mine cart pulled by horses
- Taking a boat ride over pink waters at Ria Celestun, a biosphere reserve where you can explore mangroves, look for crocodiles, and visit enormous concentrations of flamingos
About CIEE Mérida
Situated in Mexico's downtown Santa Ana Park area, CIEE Mérida is conveniently located in one of the region's most beautiful neighborhoods, Calle 47, which leads to the Gastronomical Corridor, full of cozy and amazing restaurants and bars to enjoy in the afternoons and incredible sunsets. The study center sits inside a stunning colonial building, boasting five classrooms, a student lounge, a shared student life and academic advising office, and access to complimentary Wi-Fi and printers.
CIEE Mérida is surrounded by many cultural attractions like local galleries, 47th Street, Corredor Gastronomico, and Santa Ana Park, and is nearby plenty of craft shops, dining options, and public transportation. Students will feel comfortable inside the study center and enjoy their time in Mérida.
Academics in Mérida
CIEE Mérida
CIEE Mérida is conveniently located in the Centro neighborhood, considered one of the city's largest historic districts.
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 Mérida
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Mérida. The city’s diverse work scene spans tourism, hospitality, manufacturing, marketing, education, and psychology, alongside a growing presence of tech startups. Known for its rich culture and strong sense of community, Mérida offers a welcoming, relaxed environment to gain hands-on experience while building professional skills. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Architecture + Construction
- Arts, Audio/Video Technology + Communications
- Education + Training
- Health Science
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Human Services
- Information Technology
- Manufacturing
- Marketing, Sales + Service
- Science, Technology, Engineering + Mathematics
Community Impact Initiative in Mérida
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with Mérida 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 Mérida, your service work may include:
- Supporting meal preparation and food distribution efforts for individuals and families in vulnerable situations with Comedor Zarigüeyas
- Assisting with initiatives that transform surplus food into nutritious meals while promoting dignity and community connection through Refettorio Mérida
Study Abroad Programs in Mérida
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Full-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Full-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
- Merida, Mexico
- Study Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Mérida offers a rich blend of Mayan and Spanish history, giving students the opportunity to dive deep into ancient traditions, language, and heritage. Additionally, studying in Mérida offers a fantastic opportunity to enhance your Spanish language skills in an immersive environment. The city is known for its clear and articulate Spanish, often regarded as one of the best accents for language learners.
The educational offerings in Mérida cater to a wide range of interests and fields of study. Students can choose from programs in areas like history, public health, and engineering, all while learning from faculty who are experts in their fields. This diverse academic environment encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to connect their studies with real-world applications.
Mérida is a good place to study abroad for students looking to live in a tropical climate filled with diverse wildlife, ancient Mayan sites, and fascinating cities. With a more relaxed lifestyle and friendly people, Mérida is a great destination for students looking to study a variety of topics in Mexico, including biology, communication, literature, psychology, mathematics, and more.
With its rich cultural heritage, Mexico study abroad offers students the chance to immerse themselves in ancient history while experiencing modern life. From stunning architecture to delicious cuisine, there's always something to explore. Plus, with welcoming locals and a lower cost of living compared to many other study abroad destinations, Mexico provides an affordable yet unforgettable experience for students looking to expand their horizons.
Mérida is one of the safest places in Mexico. As with any study abroad destination, we recommend that students travel in groups when possible, keep their belongings near them, and stay aware of their surroundings.
Studying abroad in Mexico with CIEE Study Abroad offers a range of program costs depending on the length and type of program. The most costly option is the Open Campus Block program, which costs $16,500. Groceries and meals are relatively cheap, with street food and local markets providing delicious, low-cost options. You’ll find public transportation is also affordable, allowing you to explore Mérida without breaking the bank.
Yes, you can absolutely study Spanish abroad in Mérida! Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your Spanish skills, the immersive environment of Mérida is perfect for language growth. You'll not only study Spanish in class but practice daily with locals, making it an ideal way to accelerate your fluency while exploring the rich culture of Mexico.
The Yucatan Peninsula has a wide variety of things to do, from visiting archeological sites like the Chichén Itzá and Tulum to exploring tourist attractions in downtown Mérida like the Mayan World Museum or the Quinta Montes Molina. For nature lovers, Mérida offers students with multiple cenotes, pink waters at Ria Celestun, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife.
In order to ensure our students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered while studying abroad, CIEE staff completes comprehensive diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) training. Staff provide students with advice, resources, and ongoing support both before and during their study abroad program in Mérida.
For more detailed information on diversity in Yucatán, visit our Diversity in Mérida page.
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Mérida with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!
Search our internship opportunities to get started!
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Mérida. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Mérida 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.
Mérida Study Abroad Blog
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Let’s be real: There’s no better way to learn Spanish than actually living it. Forget the textbook exercises and Duolingo streaks – envision yourself chatting with locals about fútbol (not... keep reading
Study Abroad in Mexico: The Ultimate Guide
Ready to trade your dorm room for palm trees and panuchos? Studying abroad in Mexico is your chance to do just that! Picture this: You’re taking classes at the stunning... keep reading
How to Study Abroad in Mexico: 4 Steps
Step #1: Select a Timeframe
Start by determining which program length makes the most sense for your personal and academic schedule. CIEE Study Abroad offers four different Mexico study abroad options:
- Semester-long programs: Immerse yourself in a semester-long adventure tailored to your interests; you'll have the opportunity to fully engage with subjects you're passionate about and explore the tapestry of knowledge available in this region
- Summer programs: Maximize your summer break by selecting from a variety of study abroad options, including four-week summer sessions, six-week blocks, or eight-week internships that promise an unforgettable experience abroad
- January Term: A three-week session held during most university winter breaks where you’ll embark on many field trips, group research, and exchanges with local experts
- Open Campus Block Program: Designed for students who require a flexible study abroad experience, CIEE's Open Campus Block program was thoughtfully structured to be completely customizable; select one, two, or three six-week blocks per term at any CIEE Open Campus Block location
Step #2: Choose a Program You Love
In addition to various program lengths, we offer a diverse selection of courses for study abroad Mexico. Students can choose from subjects like mathematics, business, and Spanish language courses, along with classes focused on local culture, history, and sustainability. By enrolling in courses that align with your interests, you’ll enhance your Mérida study abroad experience and gain valuable insights into this unique region.
Step 3: Confirm your Eligibility
Once you've selected a program that excites you, it’s important to review its requirements thoroughly. Some programs may have a minimum GPA requirement, and you'll want to confirm that the courses you take abroad will count toward your credit requirements. It’s advisable to consult with your academic advisor during this process to ensure everything aligns with your academic goals.
Step 4: You’re Set to Apply!
Now that you’ve found your program, you’re ready to apply! The application process is quite simple, but if you have any questions, we’re always here to help. Just contact us!
Safety at CIEE Mérida
At CIEE, your health, safety, and well-being are always a top priority, so you can focus on making the most of your study abroad experience. From trained on-site staff who are local community experts to 24/7 support for students and families at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839), we’re here whenever you need us. Every program location is carefully reviewed for health, safety, and academic quality. Our global teams continuously monitor local conditions and stay connected with trusted partners, government officials, and U.S. embassies around the world. With guidance, resources, and real people ready to help every step of the way, you can feel confident living, learning, and exploring abroad with CIEE.
Student Housing in Mérida
CIEE Mérida offers diverse housing options to ensure you spend your days in Mérida in the most comfortable way and enjoy your home away from home. From homestays to shared apartments, we will strive to meet your accommodation preferences. Additionally, all housing options are located in safe and colorful neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, cafés, stores, and eateries. Available housing options vary by program.
CIEE Mérida Staff
Karla Zarco
Center Director