Participating in a short-term study abroad program during the summer is a unique chance to enrich your academic and personal development while experiencing new cultures all in the span of a few weeks. Summer courses are specifically designed to deliver intensive learning in a short timeframe, making them ideal for students looking to maximize their time during summer break. Whether you aim to explore a new language, dive into cultural studies, or specialize in a particular field, there is likely a short summer study abroad program that aligns with your goals.
Why Consider a Short Course in the Summer?
In addition to academic benefits, studying abroad for the summer cultivates essential life skills like adaptability, independence, and cross-cultural communication. Living and learning in a foreign setting will challenge you to step out of your comfort zone and broaden your global perspective, so you can return in the fall with a fresh take on your life and your studies.
Additionally, summer programs often offer unique courses not available at your home institution, so you can explore new academic interests or deepen existing ones away from home.
Participating in short-term courses abroad can also bolster your resume by demonstrating initiative and a willingness to take on new challenges. The international experience will help expand your professional network and open doors to future career opportunities both at home and abroad.
Read our Best Tips for Summer Study Abroad
Summer travels.
10 Best Short Summer Courses for 2025
If you’re ready to take advantage of the unique opportunity to combine academic growth with cultural exploration during a condensed, exciting timeframe, then check out the best short-term courses available for the upcoming summer below:
1. Learn Spanish in Latin America with Maximo Nivel
Destinations: San José and Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica; Antigua, Guatemala; Cusco, Peru
Maximo Nivel offers intensive Spanish immersion programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru, emphasizing oral communication and integrated skills development. With native-speaking instructors and a free Tandem Conversation Program, students enhance language proficiency while experiencing diverse Latin American cultures.
2. Study at Florence University of the Arts (Italy) with SAI Study Abroad
Destination: Florence, Italy
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Florence by studying at the Florence University of the Arts (FUA). SAI Programs offer a diverse range of courses in English, including literature, sciences, business, economics, history, fine arts, and graphic design. Students can enhance their learning through experiential opportunities and for-credit internships, all while experiencing the beauty of Renaissance Italy.
3. Join the Ultimate Summer in Europe with Forum-Nexus Study Abroad
Destination: Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Milan, Paris, Lugano, Lake Como
Experience an unforgettable summer taking classes and traveling through Europe with Forum-Nexus Study Abroad. This multi-city program visits some of Europe's top cities, offering courses taught by an international team of professors who travel with you. In the evenings and on weekends, enjoy free time to explore and sightsee on your own. Make friends from around the world while gaining valuable professional and academic experience. Program dates are from June 29 to July 25, 2025.
4. Short-term Japanese Courses & Cultural Activities
Destination: Sapporo and Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido Japanese Language School offers immersive short-term courses focusing on conversational Japanese, complemented by cultural activities. With small class sizes and flexible start dates, including summer; students of all levels can enhance their language skills while experiencing Japanese culture firsthand.
5. Join Argentina's Future-Focused Study Abroad with IFSA
Destination: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Immerse yourself in Buenos Aires' vibrant culture through IFSA's program, offering courses at prestigious universities, volunteer opportunities, and fieldwork experiences. Enhance your academic journey while exploring world-class theater, music, and museums in Argentina's bustling capital. And the great thing about the program is that you don’t have to have Spanish experience!
Summer is the best time to meet new friends!
6. Experience Italy with John Cabot University
Destination: Rome, Italy
Experience studying at an American liberal arts university in the heart of Rome, Italy. John Cabot University offers a diverse international community, a wide range of courses, and opportunities to immerse yourself in Italian culture, enhancing both your academic and personal growth.
7. Spend Your Summer in Prague with AIFS Study Abroad
Destination: Prague, Czech Republic
Spend your summer in the picturesque city of Prague with AIFS Abroad! Earn up to 18 credits through various courses at Charles University, with classes taught in English—no prior Czech language study required. Live in well-connected student residences and immerse yourself in Czech culture through organized activities, including walking tours, opera performances, and excursions to places like Plzeň and Český Krumlov.
8. Learn French in Canada with Greenheart Travel
Destination: Quebec City, Canada
Immerse yourself in French language and Quebecois culture through Greenheart Travel's summer camp. Designed for teens aged 12-17, the program offers 15 hours of weekly French classes tailored to all proficiency levels, complemented by daily cultural activities and weekend excursions. Experience with the French language is not even required. Participants stay with carefully selected host families, providing a supportive environment to practice French and experience local life firsthand.
9. Learn Environmental Science and Conservation with Kaya Responsible Travel
Destination: Cuenca and Puyo, Ecuador
This program is designed for students aspiring to become conservationists and environmental scientists. Spend your summer immersed in the Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern – Environmental Science and Conservation Track. It involves studying in Cuenca for eight weeks and an optional internship for 2 or 4 weeks. The placement is at a rescue and conservation center in the Amazon, and you can join before or after your studies. The host university is Universidad de Cuenca, where you can take one Spanish class based on your level and another course from these options: Natural Heritage of Ecuador, World Agriculture and Food Problems, Structure and Functions of Plants, Forestry, and Society. Be at the front lines of environment and wildlife conservation in this summer study program.
10. Have an Immersive Summer in Spain with CIEE
Destination: Seville, Spain
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Seville while earning academic credits through CIEE's summer program. Courses are available in English and Spanish, covering disciplines such as art, architecture, culture, cuisine, and Flamenco dancing. The program includes excursions to historic sites, cultural workshops, and opportunities to engage with local students, enhancing both language skills and cultural understanding.
Cultural immersion.
11. Discover the Scandinavian Culture with DIS - Study Abroad
Destination: Copenhagen, Denmark
DIS Summer Courses offer students the opportunity to earn credits, explore diverse academic subjects, and immerse themselves in Scandinavian culture. With over 80 courses and 40+ study tours across Europe, participants can build a personalized study abroad experience that aligns with their academic goals and personal interests.
12. Learn Wine-Making in Argentina with Mente Argentina
Destination: Buenos Aires and Mendoza, Argentina
Mente Argentina's Wine Program offers participants an immersive experience into Argentina's renowned wine culture, focusing on the production of Malbec. The program includes wine tasting techniques, understanding varieties and flavors, and wine pairing strategies. Optional Spanish classes are available to enhance the cultural experience.
13. Golf and Equine Summer Study with Adelante Abroad
Destination: Edinburgh, Scotland
Adelante Abroad's Equine Summer Study Program offers students a comprehensive education in equine studies, combining theoretical coursework with practical riding and stable management experience. Participants can earn academic credit while immersing themselves in Scotland's rich equestrian culture.
14. Trek the Himalayas with Where There Be Dragons
Destination: New Delhi and Leh, India
Where There Be Dragons' North India Summer Program offers participants an immersive experience in the Himalayas, focusing on environmental and cultural preservation, trekking, and Tibetan Buddhism. The program includes a Wilderness First Aid course and extensive trekking, providing practical skills and deep cultural insights.
15. Summer Marine Biology Expedition with Broadreach
Destination: Gustavia, St. Barts and Nevis, St. Kitts and Nevis
Broadreach's Caribbean Marine Biology Voyage offers students an immersive 17-day experience aboard a live-aboard yacht, combining sailing, scuba diving, and hands-on marine biology studies. Participants can earn multiple scuba certifications, learn to sail, and explore the diverse marine ecosystems of the Caribbean's Leeward Islands.
Studying abroad during the summer is a transformative experience that mixes academic growth with cultural immersion in a compact timeframe. It provides students a chance to explore new disciplines, enhance their skills–and even earn valuable credits while living in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Summer programs allow participants to break free from their routines, fostering personal development and a global perspective that is increasingly essential in today’s interconnected world. Whether studying art in Florence, language in Seville, or environmental science in Ecuador, summer courses offer a perfect blend of education and adventure.
Learning under the warm sun.
Short Term Summer Courses are a Gateway to Unparalleled Growth
Summer study abroad programs are ideal for students who want to maximize their academic breaks. These short-term courses fit neatly into busy schedules while still delivering meaningful experiences. By engaging with local cultures, building international networks, and developing soft skills like adaptability and intercultural communication, students prepare themselves for future academic and professional success. Seize the opportunity to broaden your horizons and make the most of your summer break!
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