Study Abroad Programs in Nicaragua

The largest country in Central America (but roughly the size of New York state), the country of Nicaragua is bound by both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It's many accessible coastlines are not the only things that draw students to study abroad in Nicaragua: beach AND mountain loving students alike will find recluse there. Brush up on your Spanish and learn more about the economic and political developments that are affecting Nicaragua today.

We hope you like corn, because a day doesn't go by in a Nicaraguan home without it! The Nicaragua people are a unique combination of Euro, African, and Carib influences, with most indigenous peoples living in the western side of the state. Be sure to check out Lake Nicaragua while you're there (the only place with freshwater sharks!). Study abroad in Nicaragua and find out what other splendor this country has to offer.

Don't let your pocketbook do the talking - take advantage of the ample scholarship funds available for study abroad in Nicaragua!

The University of Virginia offers the Deborah J. Kane scholarship to finance study abroad programs in Central America.
A hoard of scholarships are available should you select the SIT study abroad program in Nicaragua.
More Study Abroad Grants and Scholarships

Nicaragua has only one major city; outside of the capital, you'll be free to experience rural life, smaller cities, and of course - ample coastlines. Choose a study abroad location that best suits your academic and aesthetic interests.

Managua

As the largest city in Nicaragua, this city is home to 1.4 million habitats. With beautiful vistas of nearby volcanoes and the beautiful Managua, it is no wonder this city attracts many study abroad students each year. Despite its tumultuous past, this city is considered one of the safest in Central America, and is continually working towards a better future.

So you've made the decision to study abroad in Nicaragua? - Great! Now it's just a matter of figuring out exactly where you want to go, and who you want to go with! Check out our guide below to better understand all of your options for study abroad in Nicaragua.

Language

With the national language being Spanish, your entire Nicaraguan experience will feel like a fantastic lingual adventure. Stepping outside of the traditional "classroom" to use your Spanish in every day life should be expected. Even though this is a great method for acquiring new language skills, actual Spanish classes and lessons will help you stay on track as a student. There are tons of options for Spanish schools in Nicaragua!

If you're advanced, choose a program with complete immersion opportunities and courses only taught in Spanish. If you're more of a beginner (or not so confident), choose a hybrid program, that offers language classes and other courses (taught in English!)

Housing

When you study abroad, you'll be given a few different options for housing. Some providers will allow students to stay in local international dormitories on college campuses, while others will provide private or shared apartments to students. Select a housing option that will make you the most comfortable during your experience.

On the flip side, if you think being "comfortable" while studying abroad defeats the purpose, then consider participating in a homestay. Homestays are great options for students who want to truly envelope the local way of living and make great connections with Nicaraguans. Though more challenging, these experiences often prove more beneficial in the long run.

Immersion & Cultural Activities

Wanting to see the Catedral de León or Convento y Museo San Francisco while in Nicaragua but don't know how? Fear not! Many program providers offer organized weekend trips and activities for their students. In this way, all you'll have to do is sit back and relax - no worrying about getting train tickets or making it to the museum on time.

Alternatively, if the challenges associated with sight-seeing and trip planning sounds like more fun, I would recommend considering a more independent program that gives you ample free time, away from group activities.

What to Pack

Choosing what you'll need for your trip might be difficult. Our guide on what to pack for study abroad in Central America will help you.