Merida, Mexico

SUA offers a study abroad program at Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán in Merida through IFSA. This program is best suited for students with higher-level Spanish.

Dakhala in traditional Mexican garments

Location

Merida is located in very southern Mexico and is the largest city in the Yucatan Peninsula, with a population of around 770,000 residents. 

Frontal shot of temple

History

Merida has a rich Mayan history and the highest indigenous population of any large Mexican city. 

Students in front of letters spelling out Merida

Food

The food in Merida is very different than other parts of Mexico, with Mayan, Caribbean, and Middle Eastern influences.

It was without doubt one of the best experiences in my life.

Program Characteristics

Fall Semester starts in early August and end in early December. Spring semester starts in early January and ends in late May.

  • 2.5 GPA
  • Four semesters of university-level Spanish

Designed for students in upper-intermediate level of Spanish. Students will take university courses with locals. A full range of coursework in biology, business administration, economics, education, history, linguistics, literature, nutrition, psychology, and social communications are offered.

You may take a four- to five-day archeological excursion, and day trips to places such as Uxmal, Chichén, Ek-Balam, and Hacienda Sotuta de Peón. 

Merida is a safe and beautiful city. You will live with a Mexican host family with three meals a day provided.

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