Study Abroad in Rabat
College Study Abroad
Explore Rabat with CIEE
Discover a city where centuries-old traditions meet coastal charm when you study abroad in Rabat, Morocco. Stroll through the sunny white-walled Kasbah of the Oudayas, shop in the winding alleys of the Old Medina, or savor a traditional tagine in a tucked-away café. With its blend of Arabic, French, and Amazigh influences, Rabat offers a rich environment to strengthen your language skills and immerse yourself in Moroccan culture. Whether you're exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites or enjoying mint tea by the Atlantic, Rabat study abroad combines history, hospitality, and academic opportunity into one unforgettable experience.
While abroad, choose from a range of study abroad programs in Rabat designed to support your academic goals, with opportunities to study topics like language and culture, politics, business, communications, and social sciences. Beyond the classroom, students can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as education, government and public administration, hospitality and tourism, marketing and communications, information technology, business administration, and human services. By combining academics with hands-on professional experience, Rabat study abroad offers you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while exploring one of North Africa’s most vibrant and culturally rich capitals.
Top Activities in Rabat with CIEE
Every Rabat study abroad semester program has frequent cultural excursions, as well as a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s curriculum and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Rabat, past study tours and excursions have included:
- Step back in time on guided tours through Rabat’s Old Medina and Kasbah, the ancient ruins of Chellah, and the Andalusian Gardens
- Embark on breathtaking hikes in the High Atlas Mountains, traversing rugged trails with sweeping vistas, then arrive at a traditional Amazigh village in Ourika
- Go on unforgettable overnight excursions to Marrakesh and Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco, where you'll see historic palaces, vibrant souks, and enchanting blue-washed streets
About CIEE Rabat
Located in the diverse and modern neighborhood of Agdal in central Rabat, CIEE Rabat is housed in a charming villa, featuring three main classrooms, a Moroccan-style social area, and a peaceful outdoor space. At the study center, students have complimentary Wi-Fi and printer access and can easily reach public transportation.
CIEE Rabat is only a few miles from the city's historic Hassan Tower and lovely Chellah gardens. Students will also find they can easily reach many affordable restaurants, cafés, shops, and Rabat's top landmarks.
Academics in Rabat
CIEE Rabat
CIEE Rabat is located in the modern neighborhood of Agdal in central Rabat with easy access to public transportation, green spaces, and restaurants and cafés
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 Rabat
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Rabat. From education and tourism to economic development, Rabat’s evolving work scene blends deep-rooted cultural traditions with modern innovation, creating a collaborative, relationship-driven environment where you can build real-world skills. Interning in Rabat lets you step beyond the classroom, gain global perspective, and explore opportunities across industries like:
- Architecture + Construction
- Arts, Audio/Video Technology + Communications
- Business Management + Administration
- Education + Training
- Government + Public Administration
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Human Services
- Information Technology
- Marketing, Sales + Service
Community Impact Initiative in Rabat
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with Rabat 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 Rabat, your service work may include:
- Supporting English language learning and cross-cultural exchange programs with the American Language Center, helping students build communication skills and global awareness
- Assisting with therapeutic, educational, and family support programs for children with disabilities at Centre Social Kariat
- Engaging in music, theater, and arts education initiatives that promote cultural heritage and community connection with Crescendo Music
Study Abroad Programs in Rabat
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Rabat, Morocco
- Full-Time Internship
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
- Rabat, Morocco
- Full-Time Internship
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Rabat, Morocco
- Study Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Rabat offers a blend of quality academics, rich cultural immersion, and exciting traditions to discover and experience. As the capital of Morocco, Rabat is a centuries-old coastal city where students can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wander through the historic medina, experience Morocco's unique blend of Arabic and French influences, and enjoy the city's impressive arts, food, and culture. Whether you're interested in business, politics, social sciences, communications, language studies, or international relations, Rabat is the perfect backdrop for an exciting and rewarding study abroad experience.
Rabat is a good place to visit and study abroad because of its rich history, Moroccan culture, and opportunity to study Arabic or French. As Morocco’s second largest city, Rabat is home to several cherished museums, NGOs, stunning colonial architecture, and much more that students can explore.
Rabat is considered one of the safest cities in Morocco, but as with any new city, we encourage students to stay aware of their surroundings, keep their belongings secure, and travel in groups when possible.
The cost of studying abroad in Rabat varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Rabat study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Known best for hosting Morocco’s Royal Palace, Rabat is also known for its more relaxed, less crowded lifestyle as compared to Casablanca. As the official capital of Morocco, Rabat has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century, making it an exciting destination for students interested in learning Arabic or French, Moroccan history and culture, and more.
Rabat has much to discover, from gardens and museums to historical sites and theaters. Popular attractions in Rabat include Hassan Tower, Kasbah des Oudayas, Royal Palace of Rabat, and Chellah.
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 Rabat.
For more detailed information on diversity in Rabat, visit our Diversity in Rabat page.
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Rabat 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!
Most students studying or interning abroad in Rabat will need to obtain the appropriate visa before traveling to Morocco. Visa requirements vary depending on program length. CIEE provides guidance throughout the visa process and helps students understand the necessary documentation and entry requirements for their specific program, making it easier to prepare for your time abroad.
No, you don’t need to know Arabic to study abroad in Morocco or Rabat. CIEE courses are offered in English, and English is commonly used in academic settings and major urban areas.
That said, learning some basic Arabic phrases can make daily life easier and help you connect more with the local culture and community, but it’s not required to thrive during your time abroad.
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Rabat. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Rabat 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.
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How to Study Abroad in Rabat
Step #1: Select a Timeframe
CIEE offers a variety of ways to study abroad in Rabat, including semester-long sessions, summer study abroad, and J-term, with program lengths ranging from four weeks to 18 weeks. With flexible options, it’s important to select a timeframe that makes sense with your personal and academic schedule.
Step #2: Choose a Program You Love
After determining your timeframe, find a program that meets your academic and career goals. Students can choose from subjects like mathematics, business, and language courses, along with classes focused on local culture, history, and more. Choosing a program you’re passionate about will help you make the most of your Rabat study abroad experience!
Step #3: Verify Your Eligibility
Make sure you’re eligible to participate in CIEE’s Rabat study abroad offerings. Every program has its own requirements, but typically include a minimum GPA and often other course and credit requirements, too.
Step #4: Create Your Budget
While studying abroad in Rabat can be an affordable study abroad option, it’s always a smart idea to budget for other expenses, like incurred travel expenses, gifts, and food.
CIEE also offers millions in study abroad scholarships and grants each year based on several factors including financial need, academic merit, and other considerations, to allow you to make a study abroad dream a reality!
Step #5: 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 Rabat
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 Rabat
CIEE Rabat offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our Rabat housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.
CIEE Rabat Staff
Madiha Chafiq
Center Director