IFSA Mérida
Mérida, Mexico
Students are able to take classes through multiple places at once, allowing for an incredibly personalized academic plan. Through this array of offerings, Reed students can customize an academic focus that fits their needs while experiencing the vibrant city life of Mérida. IFSA staff work with students before arriving and during their time onsite with academic advising to assist students with the many choices of classes, and to help students understand the differences between the two universities they partner with. With 300 days of sunshine a year, a reputation as one Latin America’s safest environments, and just thirty minutes from the beach, Mérida has plenty of allure. Dig into rich layers of Mayan culture, take advantage of opportunities to build language skills as you study and socialize with peers at Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán and Universidad Modelo. And round it all out with unique excursions and a homestay to enhance local connection. This is a relativley small program, usually with under thirty students, so attendees have the chance to form a really close group.
IFSA Mérida also provides three excursions during the semester for students, focusing on both academics and immersion in the local culture and environment. The first excursion is to a Mayan archeological site and a cenote, exploring the region's pre-colonial history. The second is a visit to a colonial city where students learn about the complex intersections of identities and cultures that resulted from colonization. The last excursion is ecologically focused, taking students to one of the regions many nature reserves. Specialized guest lecturers and local guides are employed for each trip, to ensure students get a wide breath of perspectives.
Program Information
Terms Available: year, semester
Type of Program: Study Abroad
Languages of Instruction: Spanish
Language Prerequisite: 4 years of Spanish language or equivalent.
- Credit Transfer System
- Grading system: A-F
- GPA Requirement: 2.5
- Credits: 15 credits
- Course Catalog
Application
Application Deadline: Fall: May 1 | Spring: Nov. 1
Program Application
Program website
Housing:
Host Family
In Mérida, students live with local families in what’s known as a homestay. Homestays make it easy to immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture. All meals are included. They also provide many opportunities to build your Spanish language skills. IFSA has been working with host families for twenty years, and some families have been there since the start. Thus, the network is strong, and staff preform rigorous training with host families to ensure student needs are met, such as dietary restrictions and LGBT+ identity awareness. Students also fill out a comprehensive form before arriving in Mérida, which allows staff to place students in a home that will be most comfortable for them.
Immigration
Visa Deadlines and Requirements:
A visa is not required in most cases for this program, but do check for your specific situation on the IFSA visa requirements page.
Financial
Cost to attend:
Reed College charges the same tuition fees for a semester or year off-campus as for a semester or year spent on campus, plus the program's actual room and board fees. Reed College encourages students to choose programs based on their academic rather than financial needs to reflect Reed's belief that all students, regardless of financial circumstances, should have the opportunity to study abroad.
Financial aid continues for eligible students during the off-campus program. Students should discuss with the Financial Aid Office how other outside aid may impact their existing aid package. Check out more details directly on the Reed College Financial Aid page.
Other Information
Medical insurance is done with CISI, which provides coverage for physical and mental health. The IFSA staff can help reccomend students to doctors and specialists in Mérida, and mental health services are offered through an online service.Past Student Testimonials
Photos from the program team:
