The World Endeavors Study in Mexico program takes place at Universidad Internacional in Cuernavaca. Lush, scenic Cuernavaca is a popular destination for Mexicans and foreigners alike, and many students come here every year to study Spanish. The Universidad Internacional specializes in language instruction, and has been ranked as one of the top Spanish language schools in the world. The Universidad has a beautiful and safe campus, made of small buildings spaced out among green spaces, fruit trees, pools, and fountains. Students at the Universidad study language and culture in small classes, and they benefit from personalized instruction and support from their teachers. By staying with host families, students truly become part of the local community.
In addition to our semester programs, there are two 4-week summer sessions; students may choose one or attend both sessions. These sessions are an excellent opportunity for students to begin or continue studying Spanish in between semesters and gain better mastery over an increasingly important language around the world.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Studying at the Universidad Internacional is a great choice for students committed to improving their Spanish skills and gaining an in-depth understanding of Mexican culture. Since students stay with host families, this program is particularly good for students who want to be immersed in Mexican culture and use Spanish in their day-to-day life.
Cuernavaca’s roots run deep. Founded by the Tlahuica people, it was a center of learning as far back as the fifteenth century. Cuernavaca has survived conquistadors and rapid societal changes to become a charming modern city with a high-society flair. These days, it is a popular destination for students looking to learn Spanish and be immersed in the fascinating local culture. Cuernavaca is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” because of its climate—warm year-round but never too hot, with enough rain to make the area green and lush. Safe, student-friendly, and historic, Cuernavaca has plenty to keep students interested, including beautiful churches and the sixteenth-century Palace of Cortés.
ACADEMIC CREDIT
Upon successful completion of the program, credit and transcripts are issued by Universidad Internacional, a fully accredited Mexican University.
The World Endeavors process is designed to take the guesswork out of academic credit and credit transfers. Our experienced advisors work with each student and his or her academic advisor before the program begins to ensure students earn the credit expected for courses taken abroad.
PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY
• Students must be 18 years or older at the time of the program.
• No previous Spanish experience is required.
TYPICAL COURSE LOAD
Each week of instruction includes 15 hours of language study plus the study of history and culture. Students can earn up to 18 credits per semester.
The summer program consists of two 4-week sessions; students may take one or both of these sessions. Each week includes 15 hours of language study. Students usually receive one credit for each week, so the four-week session transfers to most US universities as four credits.
Classes run daily, Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each day of class includes three hours of Spanish classes, two hours of either grammar or Latin American history and culture, and one hour of cultural lectures or conversation. Students may take additional enrichment classes in the afternoons at no extra cost for extra help with pronunciation or grammar or for advanced conversation practice. Students may also request a weekly session of additional tutoring in areas they are particularly interested in.
(3 hours) This course focuses on the main language skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students will be placed in groups of no more than 5 students based upon their language level (as determined by a short entrance exam and oral interview).
(2 hours) These courses are flexible and allow students to choose from a variety of classes including: Art, Business, Education, History, Latin-American Studies, Linguistics, Literature, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, and Spanish grammar.
(1 hour) This component is designed to improve students’ listening and conversational Spanish Language skills and cultural awareness by corrected discussions on topics like holidays, festivities, and family life. Students are encouraged to compare and contrast their own culture with their experiences in Mexico. Students are taught idiomatic expressions that will help them interact and better understand the culture in which they are immersed.
Optional Classes:
Students can take additional courses for no extra cost to further enrich their understanding of the Spanish language. These can include pronunciation or an advanced grammar and/or conversation workshop.
The purpose of this class is to put into practice your acquired knowledge both in and out of the classroom in a daily context such as in the home, school and social settings, while becoming acquainted with Mexican culture and everyday life. We provide different activities such as Mexican songs, idiomatic expressions (slang), and discussions of music, movies, and popular culture.
During the 2 hours of Spanish Conversation Workshop, students can practice their skills in communication and pronunciation while interacting with Mexican high school students in a variety of activities of mutual interest like games, handcrafts, and the like. Students will also have the opportunity to take part in field trips and other activities to expand their cultural experience.
During the 2 hours of Specialized Vocabulary the student will learn Spanish language skills so that they can effectively communicate with their Spanish-speaking clients, students, or patients (according to the student’s needs).
World Endeavors students in Mexico stay with local host families. The home stay experience is a valuable part of becoming immersed in the local culture, and it’s one of the best ways for students to practice their Spanish outside the classroom. Host families are welcoming and enjoy having visiting students stay with them. Host family accommodation includes three meals every day. Additional housing options may be available at an extra cost. For more information on these options, please contact World Endeavors.
FALL SEMESTER 2019: August 16 – November 15, 2019
– Application Deadline: May 1, 2019
SPRING SEMESTER 2020: January 10th – April 10th, 2020
– Application Deadline: September 15, 2019
FALL SEMESTER 2020: August 21st – November 20th, 2020
– Application Deadline: May 1, 2020
SPRING SEMESTER 2021: January 8th – April 9th, 2021
– Application Deadline: September 15, 2020
SUMMER SESSION 1: May 29th – June 27th, 2020
– Application deadline: March 1, 2020
SUMMER SESSION 2: July 3rd – August 1st, 2020
– Application deadline: April 1, 2020
Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights.
| Program Name | Cost |
|---|---|
| Study In Mexico (Universidad Internacional) | $11,990 |
| Program Name | Cost |
|---|---|
| Summer Study In Mexico (Universidad Internacional) | $5.490 |
INCLUDED FEATURES
- Dedicated Program Advisor who is accessible and experienced
- Tuition: 12-18 credits per semester (up to 5 courses)
- Summer tuition: 4 credits
- Academic transcript from Universidad Internacional
- Pre and post arrival orientation; re-entry guidance
- Student services and learning support
- 24/7 emergency phone support
- Airport reception and welcome
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Travel visa guidance and support
- Home stay accommodations
- 3 meals per Day
- For semester programs:
- Two excursions to Teotihuacan Pyramids and the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City
- Advice on how to get a local phone number
OTHER BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
- Round-trip transportation to Mexico City
- Visa expenses
- Daily transportation
- Personal expenses
Congratulations on your decision to embark on a life-changing experience abroad! We look forward to working with you to make your trip memorable and meaningful.
For most applicants, the first step is to contact a World Endeavors advisor. Our advisors are available to answer questions and offer guidance along the way. With our help, you may be surprised at how easily your dream of going abroad can become a reality.
Enrollment in the World Endeavors program begins formally with an application. Due to visa requirements and other processes involved in coordinating international programs, participants are encouraged to submit their applications as far in advance as possible. We recommend that applications be submitted prior to the program application deadline. If your intended program's deadline has passed, contact World Endeavors for more information.
