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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Language, Literature & Culture
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Location
Cusco
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Host University
ISA Cusco Study Center
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Term
Summer 1 2025
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Program Dates
May 16, 2025 - Jun 21, 2025
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Program Length
Summer
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Application Deadline
Mar 25, 2025
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Apr 10, 2025
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Credit
6 - 7 Credits
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Eligibility
2.50 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$5,450
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
Discover Peruvian history, culture, and environmental practices through innovative courses, excursions, and cultural activities that turn Cusco and the surrounding area into your classroom. With courses in English, Spanish, and introductory Quechua, you will learn more about the indigenous communities of Peru and explore how they are adapting to contemporary social and environmental changes.
Combining coursework with community engagement, this program gives you the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-life contexts. Courses at the study center are student-focused and taught by experienced local professors.
Semester + Semester Programs Available: You can combine the Spring + Fall OR Fall + Spring sessions at a discounted price. For more information about this option, please contact your ISA Cusco Program Manager.
Veritas Christian Study Abroad in Cusco
Veritas Christian Study Abroad enhances the traditional WorldStrides program by adding comprehensive Christian support through mentorship, ministry service opportunities, and faith-centered academics. Visit the Veritas webpage for more information.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.50.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception*
Airport Reception*
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
*Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs, as well as programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Meals and Laundry Service*
Meals and Laundry Service*
*The possibility for included meals and/or laundry services vary per location and housing option. Meals and laundry services are provided with most homestays to a degree. For more details, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions*
Excursions*
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
*Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, some summer sessions, as well as some programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
Credits
6 - 7
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
6 - 7
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
9 - 10
Academic Information
- Course Selection
- Students select two courses
- The courses below reflect the most current list of courses
- Course availability is based on enrollment numbers. All students should seek pre-approval for alternate courses in the event of last-minute class cancellations
- Requests for sample syllabi can be made to the Peru Program Manager.
- Spanish language courses require the purchase of a language textbook at an additional cost. Many courses have a field trip component, which also comes at an additional cost. Contact the Peru Program Manager for more information.
- Course Credit
- According to ISA policy, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
- Transcripts
- Upon completion of the program at the ISA Cusco Study Center, students will receive a transcript from ISA's School of Record, the University of South Florida (USF). The USF transcripts will reflect transfer credit for coursework taken at the ISA Cusco Study Center. The contact hours for language courses will not be reflected on the transcript; however, they are listed below to assist with credit transfer. Please be in touch with your home university regarding credit transfer for this program.
Courses
select allclear all
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating your questions about traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
U.S. Team
Michelle McRaney
Senior Program Manager, Latin America
Michelle graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a focus on International Management. She studied International Business in Caen, France and Spanish and International Management in Monterrey, Mexico. Michelle joined the ISA team in 1998. Michelle has led programs in Guanajuato, Mexico; Salamanca, Spain; Granada, Spain; Santander, Spain; Sydney, Australia; and Santiago, Dominican Republic. She also accompanied several ISA site visits in Chile and Argentina, and conducted new program research and staff training in Mexico and Brazil. In 2006, Michelle moved to Lima, Peru, where she set-up ISA's first program in Peru, which expanded to include Cusco. Michelle is excited about sharing the Peruvian culture and cuisine with all ISA participants and helping to adjust to life in Lima.
CUSCO TEAM
Andy Osorio Mollenedo
Resident Director, Peru
Andy Osorio Mollenedo
Resident Director
Born in Arequipa and raised in Cusco, Andy studied business administration at the Universidad Inca Garcilaso de la Vega in Lima. Since 2009, he has been part of the ISA Peru team. Andy is passionate about helping ISA students have a wonderful experience abroad. In his free time, he likes to play basketball, soccer, watch TV, and go to the movies.
Roxana Paredes
Student Services Coordinator, Peru
Roxana Paredes
Student Services Coordinator
Roxana grew up in Cusco, Peru and graduated from Universidad San Antonio Abad del Cusco with a bachelor's degree in Tourism and a master's degree in Public Administration. She furthered her studies with a Master's degree in Spain focused on Human Rights. In 2008, she had the opportunity to work abroad in the United States through an exchange program in Steamboat Springs, Colorado and joined the ISA Cusco team in 2011. She coordinates a variety of student services, including the ISA service learning programs. She loves to share the Peruvian culture with all ISA participants and support them as they adjust to life in Cusco. Roxana spends her free time preparing baked goods, such as cakes and pies for friends and family, and loves to hike the mountains in her beautiful hometown.
Kris Cárdenas
Academic Coordinator, Peru
Kris Cárdenas
Academic Coordinator
Born and raised in Cusco, Kris attended San Antonio Abad del Cusco University, where she obtained her Bachelor´s degree in Education. She then went to Spain to earn her Master degree at Cantabria University. She worked in several universities in Peru and China - teaching Spanish and Latin-American Literature. She also worked with ISA Cusco as a teacher from 2014. She has traveled to several countries including Thailand, Cuba, and Italy, as well throughout Peru. She loves teaching, travel, reading, music, dancing, and sports, and is an avid dog lover.
Resources
Access & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@worldstrides.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
ISA Student Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
Living in ISA housing will give you the opportunity to experience aspects of the Peruvian lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor to Peru. With an open-mind and flexibility, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
We strive to match your housing preferences with our available accommodations, however, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Homestay
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the local language and culture, staying with a host family is an excellent choice. Each family is thoughtfully selected by ISA’s resident staff to ensure a welcoming and comfortable living experience tailored to your needs. Homestays provide breakfast and dinner daily, as well as laundry service once a week. While students generally enjoy the privacy of their own room, it’s possible to share the home with another ISA student of the same gender, offering an additional opportunity for cultural exchange.
Apartment
For those seeking greater independence during their time abroad, apartments provide an excellent housing option. Assigned on a first-come, first-served basis with limited availability, these fully furnished apartments include rent and utilities as part of the program price. Conveniently located within walking distance of the ISA Study Center, the apartments typically accommodate two to three ISA students of the same gender identity in single-occupancy rooms. Please note that meals and laundry service are not included, allowing you the flexibility to manage these aspects independently.
Independent Housing
If you prefer to secure your own housing, you have the option to arrange accommodations independently. By choosing this option, you will receive a discount equivalent to the housing portion of the program price. Please note that you are solely responsible for researching, booking, and managing your chosen housing, as well as covering all associated fees, deposits, and rent directly with the housing provider.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
Sacred Valley
Uncover the treasures of the Sacred Valley on this captivating day excursion. Explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Chinchero and Moray, marveling at their historical and cultural significance. Journey through the breathtaking Urubamba Valley and discover the vibrant market town of Pisac, renowned for its Andean crafts and stunning terraces. Visit the charming village of Ollantaytambo, home to an impressive Incan fortress and picturesque cobblestone streets. Complete your adventure at Awanacancha, where you’ll have the delightful opportunity to meet and feed alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos while learning about the traditions of textile weaving passed down through generations.
Sacred Valley
Uncover the treasures of the Sacred Valley on this captivating day excursion. Explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Chinchero and Moray, marveling at their historical and cultural significance. Journey through the breathtaking Urubamba Valley and discover the vibrant market town of Pisac, renowned for its Andean crafts and stunning terraces. Visit the charming village of Ollantaytambo, home to an impressive Incan fortress and picturesque cobblestone streets. Complete your adventure at Awanacancha, where you’ll have the delightful opportunity to meet and feed alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos while learning about the traditions of textile weaving passed down through generations.
Machu Picchu
Embark on a journey to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to one of the world’s most iconic wonders. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Machu Picchu with a guided tour that unveils the history and secrets of this ancient Incan citadel. Afterward, enjoy free time to wander through the mystical ruins at your own pace, soaking in the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere. Enhance your adventure with a visit to the enchanting Mandor Waterfalls and garden, a hidden gem where lush greenery and cascading waters provide a perfect retreat.
Machu Picchu
Embark on a journey to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to one of the world’s most iconic wonders. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Machu Picchu with a guided tour that unveils the history and secrets of this ancient Incan citadel. Afterward, enjoy free time to wander through the mystical ruins at your own pace, soaking in the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere. Enhance your adventure with a visit to the enchanting Mandor Waterfalls and garden, a hidden gem where lush greenery and cascading waters provide a perfect retreat.
Cultural Activities in Cusco
Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and dynamic culture of Cusco with the help of the on-site team. They curate an engaging calendar of events that celebrates everything that makes this historic city so special. Past activities have included salsa dance lessons, captivating traditional dance performances, and even a friendly soccer match with locals, offering unforgettable opportunities to connect with the culture and community of Cusco.
Cultural Activities in Cusco
Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and dynamic culture of Cusco with the help of the on-site team. They curate an engaging calendar of events that celebrates everything that makes this historic city so special. Past activities have included salsa dance lessons, captivating traditional dance performances, and even a friendly soccer match with locals, offering unforgettable opportunities to connect with the culture and community of Cusco.
Puerto Maldonado * Optional
Journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest with an unforgettable overnight excursion to Puerto Maldonado. Explore the lush Tambopata-Candamo Reserve on a scenic hike, where the sights and sounds of the jungle come alive. Visit the lively "Monkey Island," home to a variety of playful primates, and venture to Sandoval Lake, a piranha habitat surrounded by breathtaking views. Take to the water with a thrilling kayak trip along the Madre de Dios River, and marvel at the canopy walk, offering stunning treetop views of the dense forest. Along the way, encounter incredible wildlife unique to the Amazon, including alligators, vibrant butterflies, curious monkeys, and colorful parrots. This adventure blends exploration, connection with nature, and unforgettable memories.
Puerto Maldonado
Journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest with an unforgettable overnight excursion to Puerto Maldonado. Explore the lush Tambopata-Candamo Reserve on a scenic hike, where the sights and sounds of the jungle come alive. Visit the lively "Monkey Island," home to a variety of playful primates, and venture to Sandoval Lake, a piranha habitat surrounded by breathtaking views. Take to the water with a thrilling kayak trip along the Madre de Dios River, and marvel at the canopy walk, offering stunning treetop views of the dense forest. Along the way, encounter incredible wildlife unique to the Amazon, including alligators, vibrant butterflies, curious monkeys, and colorful parrots. This adventure blends exploration, connection with nature, and unforgettable memories.