gaborone-bao-bab-tree-star-trails
Gaborone, Botswana

Semester in Gaborone

Study Program

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 16 semester hours

18 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

TBD

Costs

Credit

12 - 16 semester hours

18 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 16 semester hours

18 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

19 weeks

Credit

12 - 16 semester hours

18 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Semester in Gaborone program lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Botswana's culture. Live and learn in Gaborone!

Unique Experiences

Take classes across all departments

at the University of Botswana (UB) with local and international students

Attend a dance workshop

to learn the significance of dance in Botswana culture

Enjoy a morning hike at Tlokweng Hill

and witness a breathtaking African sunrise

Experience
  • gaborone student group posing for photo

Your Destination

Gaborone is Botswana’s welcoming capital, offering an inspiring environment for students across disciplines. With its blend of traditional culture and modern development, vibrant local markets, arts scene, and access to nearby wildlife and natural reserves, Gaborone provides a unique and enriching backdrop for learning. Whether you're studying business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Gaborone is the perfect place to study abroad.

gaborone trio of students sitting in a hut

Program Highlights

  • Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE courses, host institution courses, and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
  • Immersive Experiences: Participate in activites, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
  • Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join university clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city.
gaborone botswana safari truck ride

Excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Gaborone will open doors for you to explore Botswana’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.       

Samples of past excursions and activities:   

  • Learn how communities play a critical role in preserving the environment by visiting Khama Rhino Sanctuary, a community-based conservation initiative  
  • Practice Setswana with a native local speaker
  • Make local friends by joining a student club at the host university 

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.  

Program Blogs

What I Packed to Study Abroad in Gaborone, Botswana

By Aspen H.

A master list of the items you should bring to study abroad in Gaborone, Botswana - including tips and tricks from my student perspective at the University of Botswana campus.

From CIEE

Arthur Pounds Join UB Marathon: Persevering through the finish line

By CIEE Gaborone at CIEE

Authored by: Ruby Pitinyane On October 13, 2024, Arthur Pounds (AJ) took part in the University of Botswana (UB) marathon at the UB Stadium, marking a significant milestone for him... keep reading

Study Abroad in Botswana Africa

By Lauren B.

For my study abroad, I chose the Community Public Health Program in Gaborone Botswana during the Fall 2024 semester. I am a public health major on a pre-PA track and... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Gaborone: Study on the campus of the University of Botswana, the first higher education institution established in the country. The campus is conveniently located within walking distance of Riverwalk Mall – one of the oldest shopping centers in Botswana – where you will find a movie theatre, plenty of restaurants, and shops. CIEE Gaborone is situated on-campus where you will have access to a gym and computer labs.

University of Botswana: The University of Botswana was established in 1982 with the goal of improving economic and social conditions for the nation. With more than 15,000 students and a staff of more than 2,000, the university is committed to academic freedom and integrity, cultural authenticity, and internationalism. The University of Botswana offers state-of-the-art facilities including a newly built medical school and sports facilities open to all students. Except for the CIEE Language and Culture Practicum, all courses are taught by University of Botswana’s faculty.

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. 

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Immigration/Entry Requirements

Visa Required: Yes. Students will apply for a Residence Permit on-site.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All Semester in Gaborone students take 4-5 courses for a total of 12-16 semester/18-24 quarter credits. Students enroll in both CIEE courses and University of Botswana courses, choosing from:

  • CIEE courses
  • At least one course at the University of Botswana
    • Students may choose courses from the University of Botswana in any department but there is a cap of two science or engineering department courses per student
  • Online Course Options: substitute up to two ASU online courses

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-16 U.S. semester/18-24 quarter credits

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 seminar hours, 100-120 internship placement hours
  • CIEE Directed Independent Research: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 contact hours, 100-120 research hours
  • University of Botswana (UB) Courses: Typically, 2 - 3 U.S. semester/3 - 4.5 quarter credits; 30 - 45 contact hours.
    • 2-credit courses are limited and difficult to get into 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

The educational system is different at UB, and students notice striking differences. Following the British model, this system offers less structure and asks students to take greater responsibility and initiative. Professors expect a great deal of individual study. Students are expected to take a full program of courses and complete all prescribed assignments and exams. Learning by rote is common. Professors read from notes or books, expecting students to copy their recitations word for word. Most professors are eager to give extra help during office hours. 

Arizona State University: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online.

Class Format

UB classes involve a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and laboratories. Lectures may include up to 100 students. Tutorials and seminars range from 15 to 25 students. Courses taught at the CIEE Center are typically for CIEE students only. Host Institution classes include both local and international students. A typical class schedule includes a combination of both CIEE and university classes and will span from Monday to Friday. Classes at both CIEE and Host Institution meet 2-3 times per week, for anywhere from 1-3 hours per class session, depending on the course. Attendance in CIEE classes is strictly enforced, both for classes and required co-curricular excursions. CIEE course instruction is supported and augmented online by CIEE’s learning management system, Canvas. 

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5-weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.

Grading

CIEE reports all final course grades to students’ home institutions using a U.S. letter grade equivalent scale of A-F. For CIEE-administered courses, students’ grades are based on attendance, class participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi.  

Most courses at the University of Botswana use a continuous assessment model that includes written assignments, projects, research exercises, essays, and written and oral exams.  

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Health Professions and Related Programs

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Biological and Physical Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Health Professions and Related Programs

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

University of Botswana

Courses are taught in English at the University of Botswana. Students can take courses in the following faculties, pending eligibility requirements:

Faculty of Business

Accounting and Finance
Marketing

Faculty of Education

Adult Education
Educational Foundations
Educational technology
Family and Consumer Sciences
Language and Social Science Education
Primary Education

Faculty of Engineering & Technology

Architecture and Planning
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Design and Technology
Mechanical Engineering

Faculty of Health Sciences

Environmental Health  
Allied Health Professions

Faculty of Humanities

African Languages and Literature
English
French  
History
Library and Information Studies
Media Studies
Theology and Religious Studies
Chinese Studies
Visual and Performing Arts

Faculty of Science

Biological Sciences  
Chemistry
Computer Studies
Environmental Science
Geology
Mathematics
Physics

Faculty of Social Sciences

Economics
Political and Administrative Studies
Social Work
Sociology
Statistics
Psychology
Population Studies

See the University of Botswana undergraduate calendar for more information.

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 

Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

 

Program Options
Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Fall 2025 18 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Academic year 2025-2026 Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date * End Date TBD* Fees & Housing $37,000
Program Spring 2026 18 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $17,950
Program Fall 2026 19 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $16,456 **
Housing $3,000 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $19,950

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $252
International Airfare $1,700 ††
Local Transportation $150 †††
Books & Supplies $250
Personal expenses $210 ††††
Total Costs $2,562

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in Residence Halls, you should budget approx. $756 for meals

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Homestay students should budget for $190

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $31,006 **
Housing $5,500 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $37,000

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $252
International Airfare $1,700 ††
Local Transportation $150 †††
Books & Supplies $250
Personal expenses $210 ††††
Total Costs $2,562

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in Residence Halls, you should budget approx. $756 for meals

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Homestay students should budget for $190

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $14,956 **
Housing $2,500 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $17,950

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $290
International Airfare $1,700 ††
Local Transportation $150 †††
Books & Supplies $250
Personal expenses $245 ††††
Total Costs $2,635

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in Residence Halls, you should budget approx. $850 for meals

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Homestay students should budget for $190

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Basetsana Maposa

Center Director

Basetsana Masego Maposa is a seasoned health, gender, and international development professional with over 15 years of experience managing and directing national and multilateral public health projects. She holds two...

Keneilwe Manisa

Program Assistant

Keneilwe completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology at the University of Botswana in 2022. She started as a student volunteer in 2019 and also has experience with...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info