rabat-students-dancing
Rabat, Morocco

Semester in Rabat

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

13 weeks

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

-

17 weeks

Credit

12 - 16 semester hours

18 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Semester in Rabat program lasts 13 weeks and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE 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 Moroccan culture. Live and learn in Rabat!

Unique Experiences

Dance the Night Away

to the infectious rhythms of Gnawa music at a lively party with your host family and friends

Ignite Your Taste Buds

with hands-on cooking classes and a food tour of Moroccan cuisine, discovering the secrets that have earned praise from celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay

Wander Through the Souks of Marrakech

a sensory overload of colors, textures, and aromas, and explore the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square

Experience
  • rabat students sitting on stairs in blue city

Your Destination

Rabat is Morocco's vibrant capital, offering an inspiring environment for students of all disciplines. The city's unique blend of Arabic, Berber, and French influences, historic landmarks like the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower, bustling souks, and rich cultural heritage create an enriching backdrop for studying abroad. Whether you're studying business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Rabat is the perfect place to study abroad.

rabat-housing-homestay-student-laughing-host-sibling

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.
  • Optional Internship Placements: Enhance your program with an optional for-credit internship that aligns with your career aspirations.
  • 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.
  • Academic Projects: Enroll in an optional for-credit independent research project or service-learning project for increased professional development opportunities. 
rabat morocco cultural excursion students

Excursions & Activities

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

Samples of past excursions and activities: 

  • Experience more than 2,000 years of history with local tour guides that tell the stories of the Old Medina and Kasbah, the ancient ruins of Chellah, and the Andalusian Gardens
  • Cross flowing streams and climb up rocky ravines as you hike through the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, stopping to visit an indigenous Amazigh Village in Ourika
  • Get lost in the dusty red streets of Marrakech, where the sound of Reggada floats through the air, and storytellers, snake charmers, and musicians perform in the central square, Jemaa el-Fnaa 

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

From CIEE

Study Abroad Morocco: The Ultimate Guide

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Interested in exploring rich historical sites, brushing up on your Arabic language skills, and enjoying the most delectable cuisine imaginable, all while earning credits toward your degree and deepening your... keep reading

From CIEE

Visiting the Largest Mosque in Africa!

By CIEE Rabat at CIEE

This week, the students had some cultural activities that introduced them to Islam's influence and relevance to Moroccan culture, traditions and everyday life. On Monday, the students had a brief... keep reading

From CIEE

On Fridays, We Eat Couscous

By CIEE Rabat at CIEE

Couscous is a traditional Moroccan dish, eaten on Fridays - the day of congregational prayer. Huge groups gather around one big table a eat the dish together, normally by hand... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Rabat: Study in the diverse and modern neighborhood of Agdal in central Rabat, only a few miles from the city's historic Hassan Tower and lovely Chellah gardens. CIEE Rabat is housed in a charming villa, featuring three main classrooms, a Moroccan-style social area, and a peaceful outdoor space.

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: No 

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 Rabat students take 4-5 courses for a total of 12-16 semester credits, choosing from: 

  • CIEE courses
  • Up to two ASU online courses (maximum 8 total credits, ASU Session B only) 

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 Language Courses: 3-4 semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours   
  • ASU Online Courses: Typically, 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours  

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

CIEE courses are scheduled Monday through Thursday. Teaching methods combine lectures, interactive activities, and weekly excursions. Arabic professors provide extensive bibliographies for students. As students gain proficiency in Arabic, center staff members encourage them to use their language skills in everyday settings. 

Students should expect to have daily homework assignments and continuous assessment. Most courses combine lectures with local field trips and excursions to help students gain a better understanding of the local culture. Class attendance is mandatory, and absences affect final grades. 

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

Courses taught at the CIEE study center are typically for CIEE students only. CIEE classes span Monday to Thursday. Classes at CIEE Rabat meet 2-4 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. 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.  

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

History, Philosophy, Religion

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

History, Philosophy, Religion

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Psychology

Course
Language
Semester Credit

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% 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 13 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $17,950
Program Spring 2026 18 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $17,950
Program Fall 2026 17 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 $14,206 **
Housing $3,250 ***
Insurance $194
Visa Fees $0
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 $455
International Airfare $1,150 ††
Local Transportation $100
Books & Supplies $20
Personal expenses $220 †††
Total Costs $1,945

*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 apartments, you should budget approx. $160 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

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

†††$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 $14,706 **
Housing $2,750 ***
Insurance $194
Visa Fees $0
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 $455
International Airfare $1,150 ††
Local Transportation $100
Books & Supplies $20
Personal expenses $200 †††
Total Costs $1,925

*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 apartments, you should budget approx. $160 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

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

†††$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

Madiha Chafiq

Center Director

Madiha received her master’s degree in international education and development from George Washington University and her bachelor’s degree in international relations from Boston University.

Haddou El Bour

Program Coordinator

Haddou El Bour worked with the Peace Corps for eight years. His experience varies from teaching his mother tongue of Tamazight and Moroccan Arabic to working as a training assistant...

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