8 Reasons to Study in Peru

Peru is located in western South America, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and has grown into one of Latin America’s most popular study abroad destinations, attracting thousands of international students every year.

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

Rising in the Higher Education World

In recent years, many Peruvian universities have been making their mark in global rankings, competing with well-known institutions across Asia, Europe, and the rest of Latin America.

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

From state-of-the-art laboratories to innovative student welfare centers, from volunteering opportunities in local communities to peer-assisted learning schemes (PALS), students at the University of Lima have access to a wide range of academic and recreational facilities.

It is not just the academic experience that makes Peru’s study abroad experience unlike anything you can find in many other parts of the world.

A Chance to Explore Peru’s Natural Playground

From some of the world’s deepest canyons to mind-bending geological landmarks, from the lush Amazon rainforest to the breathtaking central Andes, and of course Machu Picchu, there is no better place if you are looking for adventure.

If you want to take a break and relax, the 1,500 miles of golden beaches offer the perfect study break for students.

Discover Peru’s Unique History and Colorful Culture

Studying in Peru means you will have the opportunity to discover the country’s rich history and diverse culture, reflected in its people, food, architecture, language, religion, and festival celebrations.

Carnival is usually celebrated in February, before Lent. It is one of Peru’s most important festivals, when family and friends come together to eat, drink, and have fun. Every city, town, and community has its own unique way of celebrating, often including water balloon fights.

A Food Lover’s Paradise

From ceviche to cuy (guinea pig), Peru is full of delicious culinary treasures and one-of-a-kind food experiences, so much so that it has been named a top food destination for eight consecutive years. The country’s flavorful and inventive cuisine combines spices and distinctive local ingredients with international influences from Asia and Europe.

Improve Your Language Skills

Peru was once a Spanish colony, so Spanish is its official language. But that is not the only language spoken here. Peru has more than 50 languages, including indigenous languages and English.

While we are not suggesting that you become fluent in every language spoken in Peru, having a strong understanding of Spanish will make your study and living experience here much more immersive.

To encourage more international students to study in Peru, many Peruvian universities now offer degrees taught in English, including the University of Lima’s Business School. Here, students can choose from a range of English-taught courses that are updated each semester.

Meet New People and Build a Global Mindset

Studying abroad means you will meet people from all walks of life, some of whom may become lifelong friends. Sharing stories and experiences will help you develop a more global mindset, which benefits not only your personal growth but also your career development.

Joining a university society or club is a great way to do this, and the University of Lima actively encourages it. Its cultural center offers courses on current topics related to film, photography, literature, design, and architecture. The cultural center is also part of Lima’s Festival of Performing Arts (FAE), which hosts two weeks of public events showcasing a wide range of performing arts.

Students can also attend free workshops in African-Peruvian dance, Andean and Amazonian dance, northern dance (Marinera), modern dance, painting and comics, improvisation, music, music ensembles, storytelling and poetry, drawing, and theater.

Lima Is One of the World’s Most Affordable Student Cities

Universities may be some of the best years of your life, but they can also be some of the most expensive (though you probably already know that).

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

The Capital Offers Plenty of Graduate Job Opportunities

Lima is one of the largest financial and industrial hubs in South America, attracting companies from around the world to set up offices there. As a result, there are plenty of job opportunities for graduates, and Lima ranked in the top 50 for employer activity in the QS Best Student Cities 2019.