FIU in Peru: Latin American Culture and the History of Ancient Civilizations

May 23-June 5, 2027

Latin American Culture and the History of Ancient Civilizations is a language immersion program which allows students to study Spanish language and culture intensively for two weeks. The program takes place in Cusco, an archeological city rich in pre-Columbian history, and is open to students with various levels of proficiency in Spanish. Participants enroll in 6 credit hours encompassing Spanish conversation, grammar, writing, and culture. While in Cusco, students take daily Spanish classes while studying the origin of pre-Columbian civilizations and their historical role in the evolution of the Latin American continent. In addition to classroom instruction, students participate in excursions to notable Inca civilization sites, such as Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Sacsayhuaman, Ollantaytambo, Q'oricancha, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Sacred Valley and the hidden gem Mount Vinicunca, most known as Rainbow Mountain.

LOCATION DESCRIPTION

Cusco is in the southeastern region of Peru, high in the Andes Mountains. It sits at an elevation of approximately 3,360 meters (11,020 feet) above sea level and serves as the main gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Cusco lies about 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) southeast of Lima, the capital of Peru. It is located in a mountainous region that was once the center of the Inca Empire. Cusco was chosen by the Incas because of its central position in the Andes. It allowed them to control trade routes, agricultural areas, and communication across their empire. Cusco is known as the historic capital of the Inca Empire and the gateway to Machu Picchu. The city combines Inca architecture, colonial history, and modern tourism infrastructure. Its location makes it one of the most important travel destinations in South America.

HOUSING

During the program students live with Peruvian host families—a setting which gives them the opportunity to experience the Peruvian way of life more closely, immerse themselves in the local culture and speak Spanish beyond the classroom from morning to evening.  Additionally, homestay accommodation includes all breakfasts and dinners everyday with the host family.

SEMESTER

Summer A

DATES

May 23-June 5, 2027

COURSES & CREDITS (Students register for a total of 6 credits):

• SPN 4520 - Latin American Culture (3 credits)
• SPN 3955 - Foreign Study: Latin American Culture (3 credits)

PROGRAM COST

The program cost of $2,946 includes homestay with Peruvian families, all breakfasts and dinners every day, excursions to sites of historical and/or cultural importance in Andean part of Peru, pre-departure and in-country orientation sessions, transportation and International Health Insurance. The program cost does not include the non-refundable Study Abroad Fee ($195), FIU tuition for 6 academic credits, travel between USA and Cusco Peru, and lunches.

Payment Dates

FIU in Peru Program fee - $2,946.00 (see table for deadlines)

Cancellation and/or Refund Policy

$500 deposit is non-refundable

$195 OEA fee is non-refundable

For cancellation policy of FIU tuition and fees, please click here.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Participants concerned about the level of physical activity should contact the faculty director of the program.

APPLICATION THROUGH THE OFFICE OF STUDY ABROAD

Office of Study Abroad Online Application

Apply here ->

Deadline March 15, 2027

Non-FIU students must apply to FIU as a Non-Degree seeking student as well.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

• OEA Scholarship
• Destiny Lawson Study Abroad Endowment Scholarship
• Gilman Scholarship Program
• Fund for Education Abroad
• Rupert L. Lyn Capstone Scholarship - Open to Global Learning Medallion students only

There are additional scholarships available to students, such as OEA scholarships, National Prestigious Scholarships, and country and discipline-specific national scholarships. We highly encourage students to apply to as many scholarships as they qualify for. Learn about additional scholarships at Funding - Scholarships.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Susana Catturini  
Faculty Director, FIU in Peru, Latin American Culture
E: scatturi@fiu.edu

Scholarships available. Contact the FIU Office of Study Abroad for more information:
E: edabroad@fiu.edu    T: 305-348-1913

Note: FIU is not responsible for delays, changes in itinerary, changes in the content and cost of the program or other matters that are beyond their control.