Scholarships in Peru
Immerse Yourself in Incan Ruins and Indigenous Language Studies
Peru is one of the most popular destinations for students of Spanish American studies. U.S. colleges have a long history of exchange programs that make semester and summer programs possible and convenient. Students often have the unique opportunity to home stay with Peruvian families, where they have the chance to experience the language in its colloquial state. Students who participate in Peruvian studies may go for language and culture or for the archaeological and historical experience.
Scholarship Programs
Sigma Delta Pi is the Hispanic Honor Society that supports the studies of accomplished Spanish language students. The society always features a new array of scholarships, all of which are aimed at providing monetary assistance for those students wishing to advance their studies abroad in a Spanish American country. One of the regularly featured destinations is Peru. Not only may students continue advanced language studies, but also Peru is renowned for its Incan ruins such as Cuzco and Machu Picchu. Archaeology and environmental studies are also popular goals of abroad studies in Peru.
The School for International Training (SIT) is devoted to delivering a multicultural education to college students, both undergraduate and graduate level. Undergrads may participate in the SIT’s semester abroad study programs that make it possible for students to pursue studies in dozens of different countries, including Peru. Graduate students may be engaged directly in degree programs. The study abroad program in Peru is an arts and literature-based curriculum that gives students insight both historically and present-day. Because Peru is heavily steeped in ancient culture, students interact with indigenous peoples and are also engaged in the study of the country’s regional linguistics. SIT offers a range of scholarships and about one third of their participants qualify to receive funding for programs. Among their scholarships:
- Diversity Fund is directed to students who may be underrepresented in an abroad study program.
- Compton Fund is designed to help offset the cost for students interested in an abroad program that is focused on peace or community service. Preference is shown to minority applicants.
- HBCU Scholarships are reserved for those study abroad candidates attending a Historically Black College.
The University of South Florida’s Institute for the Study of Latin America and the Caribbean sponsors regular programs of study abroad in Latin American countries, including destinations in Peru. The ISLAC Summer Study Abroad programs are available through scholarships to qualified students. Selection is based on a combination of academic merit and financial need. Graduate students may apply for Student Research Awards, which provide much needed funds to study abroad and conduct research necessary for their degrees.
Keep in mind that many abroad programs change from year to year. But Peru is a common destination for colleges with archaeology and Latin American studies programs. Also, scholarships are typically available to international studies students, but most applicants are handled on a first-come-first-served basis and selection is typically based on academics in combination with financial need. So keep checking with the college of your choice.