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Study Abroad in San Juan

College Study Abroad

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Explore San Juan with CIEE

Step into a city where history meets tropical energy when you study abroad in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Wander the colorful cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, explore centuries-old forts overlooking the Atlantic, and savor local flavors at lively cafés, markets, and beachside restaurants. From relaxing on sun-soaked beaches to hiking through El Yunque National Forest, San Juan offers endless opportunities to experience both nature and culture. Discover the island’s vibrant arts scene, rich history, and unique blend of Caribbean and Latin American influences while immersing yourself in one of the most dynamic destinations in the Caribbean. San Juan study abroad offers an exciting mix of cultural exploration, outdoor adventure, and island living.

While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in San Juan designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, ecology, engineering, sustainability, and more. Beyond the classroom, you can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as hospitality, health science, finance, and manufacturing, gaining valuable international work experience while building cross-cultural communication skills. By combining academics with hands-on learning, San Juan study abroad gives you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while experiencing Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and welcoming community firsthand.

SEARCH SAN JUAN PROGRAMS

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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 
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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
CIEE students volunteer in San Juan

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

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

Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants

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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:

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program
  2. Review all available funding opportunities
  3. Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
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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. 

View Our Scholarships & Grants

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Safety at CIEE San Juan

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.

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Student Housing in San Juan

CIEE San Juan offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our San Juan housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.

San Juan Staff