Can I Study Abroad in High School in Peru?

High school study abroad programs in Peru are a great option for students looking for both adventure and a unique educational experience to add to their resume. With majestic sites like Machu Picchu to explore, unbelievable natural formations like the Montaña de Colores (mountain of colors) in the Andes to capture, and interesting cuisine and dress to try out, high school abroad in Peru is perfect for a young traveler looking to see the world from a new perspective.

If you’re ready to trade textbooks and tests for real-world explorations, Peru is waiting for you.

Asking yourself, “Can I study abroad in high school in Peru?” The answer is a resounding yes. This magical country, once home to the Inca Empire, is known for welcoming international visitors, sharing traditional music and dance, and protecting its nature and wildlife. If you’re curious, open-minded, and interested in learning a new language and culture, Peru is an excellent place to study abroad in high school.

Does Peru have student visa requirements for high schoolers?

Depending on the length of stay, students may need to apply for a visa to participate in a high school study abroad program in Peru. If you’re on a shorter term study abroad program or exchange, you most likely can participate on a tourist visa, which can be purchased upon entry to the country.

Otherwise, a temporary or resident student visa will be issued after submission of an application. Your program provider can help you determine if you’ll need a visa and the steps to obtain one if needed.

Peru student visa requirements are straightforward and should not be a barrier to choosing a program in the country. Travel to and from Peru will be stress free as long as you communicate with your program provider and do a bit of research!

3 other requirements for studying abroad in Peru in high school

There are some additional requirements to consider when asking yourself, “Can I study abroad in high school in Peru?”. They include:

• Minimum grade point average (GPA): Some high school study abroad programs in Peru require a minimum GPA, which will vary by program or school. This is to ensure students will be able to keep up with coursework and have a valuable educational experience abroad.
• Language learning: Spanish is the primary language spoken in Peru, although there are a few different dialects you may come across: Andean Spanish, Peruvian Coastal Spanish, Andean-Coastal Spanish, Equatorial Spanish, and Amazonic Spanish. Study abroad in Peru for high schoolers may include a required language-learning component.
• Budget: While the program fee may cover program costs, you’ll want to make sure you’ve covered your bases when it comes to any travel, accommodation, or food expenses. Any out of pocket expenditures should be budgeted for (don’t forget souvenirs and activities!). Fundraising and scholarships could help with this, and your program provider may be able to point you in the right direction.

Keep in mind requirements may vary depending on your program type and length of stay.

How to study abroad in high school in Peru

Step out of your everyday classroom and into the adventure of a lifetime.

So, you’re ready to take the leap into a study abroad program in high school—that’s incredible! High school study abroad in Peru is an adventure that can be approached in six easy steps:

1. Decide when and where to go

Peru is the third largest country in South America and diverse in its landscape, people, and culture. If you want to make sure you see the Andes mountains, Lake Titicaca, or Incan ruins, consider that when selecting a program.

You’ll want to decide if living with a host family is important to you, or if you’re okay with a dorm or other housing types prior to searching for programs. Timing is also important in high school—make sure to speak to your teachers and guidance counselor regarding going abroad when your school is in session, or select a summer program if you find that won’t work for you. If you’re taking classes while studying abroad in Peru, check to see if your credits will transfer and what you need to do to make that happen.

2. Select a program

Choose a program that fits your needs and ambitions. Perhaps you’re looking for a volunteer abroad experience working with indigenous children, or you want to experience the red beach at the Paracas National Reserve on an adventure program.

You may be looking for an experience which looks great on college applications, or a short-term sojourn you can brag about to your family and friends. There are a wide variety of programs of different types and lengths to choose from—reading reviews and creating a list of what each organization offers can help narrow down your choices for high school abroad in Peru!

3. Submit an application

After checking the requirements of your desired program, submit your application. This may include letters of recommendation from your teacher(s), a parent statement, and an essay, or it could be as simple as a short form with an application fee.

Is it time to seriously upgrade your high school experience?

Most organizations will have someone available to answer questions or address concerns—it’s normal to have some initial anxiety and they are there to prepare you prior to starting your journey.

4. Create a budget

Ask your chosen program provider if there are any scholarships or financial aid available. Create a budget so you’ll know how much you can spend each day/week/month you are in Peru.

It’s important to account for small things that may add up—like meals you’re responsible for or optional activities you’d like to take part in. By starting early, you could also start a fundraiser if you’re concerned about overall cost.

5. Apply for a visa and book your travel

Most likely, you won’t need a visa as most high school study abroad programs in Peru are less than 90 days. You will need proof of departure in the form of your round trip airplane ticket, and you should have a valid passport valid for at least three months after your departure date from Peru. When booking your travel, make sure you’re doing so following your program provider’s guidelines, and allow yourself plenty of time to make any connections.

6. Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime

Once you’ve been accepted to a program and booked your travel, participate in any orientations that your provider may offer and try to learn a bit of the local language. It’s a good idea to get to know the country you’re traveling to before arrival and to be able to say hello, goodbye, and where’s the bathroom—you’ll make a good first impression and be better prepared!

Here are some questions to answer prior to departure:

• What is the history of Peru?
• What can you expect the Peruvian culture to be like?
• What environmental, social, economic, or other issues is Peru facing?
• Which foods and other aspects of daily Peruvian life should you try?
• What’s the weather like at the time of year and location you’re traveling to?
• What are some common phrases said in Peru?

You’ll learn much more while in the country, but having a foundation of knowledge is important and will make your experience that more meaningful.

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 high school study abroad programs in Peru—it’s free!

How much does it cost to study abroad in Peru in high school?

Save up, make a budget, and enjoy an affordable destination for high school study abroad.

Study abroad in Peru for high schoolers doesn’t have to break the bank. Depending on your program, Peru is affordable for those coming from the United States or other Western countries.

Meals can cost anywhere from $4 to $14 USD and souvenirs are relatively inexpensive. A semester abroad in Peru in high school could cost about $15,000 USD, double that for a full academic year, but this usually also covers housing, in-country transportation, and select excursions.

It’s a good idea to pre-order local currency (the Peruvian sol) or exchange money in larger cities and request smaller bills for your purchases. Make sure to budget for any emergencies or additional activities you may want to try!

3 high school study abroad programs in Peru to consider

From setting your sights on natural wonders to spending your time getting to know the local community and leaving a positive impact, your journey to Peru is going to be unforgettable whichever program you choose. Here are some options that may inspire you:

1. Inca Adventure: from Lima to Machu Picchu by Arcos Journeys Abroad

• Why? Are you a thrill seeker, intrepid explorer, or someone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience? Look no further—this program will have you sandboarding the dunes of Huacachina in the Peruvian desert, hiking the ruins of the archaeological wonder Machu Picchu, and exploring magical Cusco, the former capital of the Inca.
• Visit the mysterious Nazca Lines and try your hand at making ceviche! You’ll also be able to give back to the community by volunteering with children in Lima, an experience that will stay with you long after you return home. This is a true deep deep dive into the history and culture of Peru and its people!
• Where? Cusco, Incan Ruins, Lima, Machu Picchu
• Duration: 12 days
• Read Arcos Journeys Abroad reviews

2. Summer Service Program in Peru by Putney Student Travel

• Why? On this program, you’ll travel to the Sacred Valley and work closely with locals on community projects, teach English in an elementary school, work on a collective farm, and practice traditional weaving methods with a Peruvian host family. From hiking to mountain biking, this opportunity comes with its fair share of adventure!
• You’ll also get to practice Spanish and try out Quechua, an indigenous language, perhaps while playing fútbol with Peruvian friends. Your summer in Peru will be incomparable!
• Where? Cusco, Lima, Ollantaytambo, Rural Areas
• Duration: 21 days
• Read Putney Student Travel reviews

3. Peru - Service & Adventure Programs by GoBeyond

• Why? Explore the colorful mountains of Cusco while empowering local women on this impactful program with GoBeyond Student Travel. You’ll be based at a refugee center for teenage mothers and children where you’ll learn about important issues, participate in meaningful service work, and immerse yourself in local life.
• Plus, you’ll earn the Presidential Service Award upon completion of this 100-hour service trip! This is an experience you won’t find in a guidebook—explore rural communities and Peru’s backcountry all while gaining confidence, adaptability, and other life skills.
• Where? Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
• Duration: 2-4 weeks
• Read GoBeyond Student Travel reviews

Can’t pick? Sign up for MyGoAbroad and compare these programs side-by-side for FREE

Studying abroad in Peru in high school might just change your whole life

It’s time to stop asking, “Can I study abroad in high school in Peru?” and start taking the steps to get there!

By studying abroad in high school in Peru, you’re setting yourself up for success. You’ll arrive in Peru with an open mind, curiosity, and excitement for what’s to come, and you’ll leave with a full heart, global perspective, and skills you can use in college, your career, and beyond.

The memories you make and relationships you build will be long-lasting, whether they are with a host family, fellow students, teachers, or even with yourself. A study abroad experience in high school is an opportunity to stand out from your peers and open a world of possibilities—Peru will seriously change your life!