Skip to content

Programs : Brochure

This page is the brochure for your selected program. You can view the provided information for this program on this page and click on the available buttons for additional options.
IFSA - IFSA Merida Universities Program (Outgoing Program) Print  Save  Share
  • Locations: Merida, Mexico
  • Program Terms: Fall, Spring
  • Homepage: Click to visit
  • Program Sponsor: IFSA 
  • Restrictions: NIU applicants only
Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Spring 2026 11/15/2025 ** Rolling Admission TBA TBA

** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Area of Study: ACCY-Accountancy, ANTH-Anthropology, ART-Art, ARTD-Art Design, ARTH-Art History & Visual Stds, ARTS-Art Studio, BIOS-Biological Sciences, CAHC-Counseling, COMS-Communication Studies, CSCI-Computer Science, ECON-Economics, ENGL-English, ENVS-Environmental Studies, EPFE-Foundations of Educ, FINA-Finance, FLAN-Foreign Lang & Literature, FLSP-Spanish, FSMD-Fashion Merchandising, GEOL-Geology & EnvironSci, HIST-History, HOSP-Hospitality & Tourism Mgmt, HSCI-Health Sciences, INTL-International Programs, LATS-Latin & Latino Am Studies, LAW-Law, MATH-Mathematical Sciences, MGMT-Management, MKTG-Marketing, NUTR-Nutrition Sciences, PHHE-Public Health & Health Educ, PHIL-Philosophy, PHYS-Physics, POLS-Political Science, PSYC-Psychology, SOCI-Sociology, UEET-Interdisciplinary Engineering and Engineering Technology Program Type: Field Study, Study Abroad, Volunteer Abroad
Class Status: Freshman, Junior, Senior, Sophomore Housing Options: Home Stay
Language of Instruction: Spanish Program Provider: IFSA Butler
Click here for a definition of this term Minimum GPA: 2.5 Program Advisor: Jill Vodden
Program Description:
Merida Universities Program
IFSA - IFSA Mérida Universities Program
Geotag  Mérida, Mexico

WHY STUDY IN MEXICO?
The capital and largest city of the Yucatán, Mérida lies in sharp contrast to many Americans’ stereotypes about Mexican cities. The city is compact and tranquil, yet also a cosmopolitan center of culture in southern Mexico. Only 20 minutes from the coast, Mérida is famed for having a relaxed attitude, and safe and student- friendly atmosphere. Early Spanish architecture adds to Mérida’s beauty and personifies the city’s long history, while a thriving Mayan influence shows in the local language and dress. In your spare time, take advantage of free evening concerts and Mérida’s exciting nightlife.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
With 300 days of sunshine a year, a reputation as one Latin America’s safest environments, and two outstanding universities, Mérida has plenty of allure. Dig into rich layers of Mayan culture. Take advantage of opportunities to build language skills as you study and socialize with peers at Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán and Universidad Modelo. And round it all out with unique excursions and a homestay to enhance local connection.

Our IFSA Mérida Universities Program offers semester programs at the Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY) and Universidad Modelo in stunning Mérida, Mexico, allowing you to study alongside local students and experience two types of Mexican higher education institutions. In addition, you may select from IFSA elective classes.

IFSA Electives
  • Advanced Spanish I
  • Advanced Spanish II
  • Exploring Yucatán: Community and Culture Contemporary Issues in Public Health in the Yucatán
  • Directed Research
Visit IFSA Mérida Universities Program on the IFSA website for complete list of available classes, class descriptions, and syllabi.

ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS
Program activities and excursions are designed to enhance your intercultural competence by developing your understanding of the local culture and people. While optional, they are included in your total program fee. Activities and excursions vary each term based on availability, but may include:
  • City-as-Text Activity
  • Mayan World Museum Visit
  • Biciruta Tour
  • Uxmal and Campeche Trip
  • Río Lagartos Trip
  • Ek-Balam and Cenote Xcanché Visit  
 
 
Learn About This Program
Scholarship & Financial Aid
    
 
  BEGIN YOUR STUDY ABROAD JOURNEY  
 
 
IFSA Global Wayfinder
Choose your ideal program by customizing and personalizing your search filters. Using IFSA’s search tool, you can find programs by searching beyond location and area of study. 
  
 
IFSA CHART
Using CHART, you’ll be able to see which classes abroad fit easily into your academic plan. You can also see which classes your home institution has already approved to guarantee that your credits will align.
  
 
IFSA Website

Apply Online Today.
Our easy online application process is here for you! Simply log in to the IFSA Student Portal and answer questions about yourself to get started. If you get stuck or have questions, reach out to our IFSA team. We’re here to help.
  
WHAT’S INCLUDED
  • Academic Support
  • Administrative Fees and Applications Fees
  • Activities and Excursions (including transportation and meals)
  • Education Fees
  • Guaranteed Housing
  • International Medical Insurance
  • Internet Access in Housing
  • Internship, Directed Research, and Volunteer Opportunities (on many programs)
  • Meals (on some programs)
  • Official Transcript with U.S. Credit Translation
  • On-site Orientation
  • On-site Staff Support (including in-person meetings and emergencies)
  • Prearrival Advising

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU
 
 
email
 
 
Phone Icon

         800.858.0229
  
 

NEW Website Icon

       IFSA-Butler.org
      NEW Instagram Icon     YouTube Logo NEW Facebook Icon        NEW LinkedIn Icon