8 reasons to study abroad in Peru | Top Universities
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8 reasons to study abroad in Peru

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Stephanie Lukins

Updated May 10, 2021
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8 reasons to study abroad in Peru

Sponsored by Universidad de Lima

Located in western South America, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Peru has grown to become one of the most popular study destinations in Latin America, attracting thousands of international students every year. 

Read on to discover eight reasons why you should consider studying abroad in Peru.

A rising reputation on the higher education scene

In recent years, many Peruvian universities have been making their way up global rankings tables, fending off various prestigious institutions across Asia, Europe and the rest of Latin America.

In the QS University Rankings: Latin America 2021, 20 Peruvian universities featured out of 411 institutions in the region. The capital city of Lima is one of Peru’s most popular destinations for international students and is home to the Universidad de Lima which ranked 133rd overall and sixth in Peru.

From state-of-the-art laboratories to an innovative student welfare centre, volunteering opportunities within the local community to the Peer Assisted Learning Scheme programme (PALS) – students at Universidad de Lima have access to a wide-range of academic and recreational facilities.

And it’s not just the academic experience that means Peru boasts a study abroad experience that not many other places in the world can.

A chance to explore Peru’s natural playground

From some of the world’s deepest canyons to puzzling geoglyphs, the lush Amazon rainforest to the breath-taking central Andes and of course, Machu Picchu – if adventure is what you’re after, then there’s no better place for it.

And if a bit of relaxation is what you’re after, then the 1,500mile stretch of golden beaches offers students the perfect study break getaway.

Discover Peru’s distinctive history and colourful culture

Studying in Peru means you’ll have the opportunity to discover the country’s rich history and diverse culture which is reflected in its people, food, architecture, languages, religions and festive celebrations.

Carnaval is usually celebrated in the run up to Lent in February. It is one of the most celebrated holidays in Peru and is a time for family and friends to come together and eat, drink and party. Each city, town and neighbourhood have their own unique way of celebrating, which often involves water balloon fights!

A foodie’s paradise

From ceviche to cuy (guinea pig), Peru is full of rich culinary delights and one-of-a-kind gourmet experiences – so much so that it has been named a top culinary destination for eight years in a row. The country’s flavourful and innovative cuisine brings together distinctive combinations of spices and fresh local ingredients with international influences from Asia and Europe.

Improve your language skills

Peru is a former Spanish colony – hence Spanish being its official language. But it doesn’t stop there. Over 50 languages are spoken in Peru, including indigenous languages and English.

Although we aren’t advocating for you to become fluent in every language that’s spoken in Peru, having a good understanding and knowledge of Spanish will make your experience studying and living here even immersive. 

To encourage more international students to study in Peru, many Peruvian universities are offering English-taught degrees – including Universidad de Lima’s business school. Here, students can choose from a range of courses that are taught in English and are updated every semester.

Meet new people and develop a global mindset

Studying abroad means you will meet a wide range of people from all walks of life – some of whom might become lifelong friends. Sharing stories and experiences will help you develop a more global mindset which can benefit not just your personal development, but your professional development too.

Joining a university society or club is a great way to do this and is actively encouraged by the Universidad de Lima. Its Cultural Centre offers a programme that addresses current topics related to film, photography, literature, design, and architecture. The Cultural Centre is also part of the Performing Arts Festival (FAE) in the city of Lima which hosts a two-week public event which showcases various performing arts.

Students can also attend free, artistic workshops in Afro-Peruvian Dance, Andean and Amazon Dances, Northern Dance (Marinera), contemporary dance, drawing and cartoon, improv, music, musical ensemble, narrative and poetry, painting and drama.

Peru’s capital city is one of the most affordable student cities in the world

While university can be some of the best years of your life, they can also be some of the most expensive (but you already knew that).

For those looking to head to Peru’s capital city of Lima, you might be pleased to learn that it ranked 22nd for affordability in the QS Best Student Cities 2019 ranking. This is largely due to the capital’s affordable tuition fees for international students and living costs compared to other student cities.

Graduate jobs in the capital are plentiful  

Lima is home to one of South America’s largest financial and industrial districts, attracting companies from all over the world to set up offices here. Employment opportunities for graduates are plentiful as a result and sees Lima rank in the top 50 in the employer activity indicator in the QS Best Student Cities 2019 ranking.