Study abroad
Study in Peru
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Peru
Thinking about studying in Peru? The country is on the Pacific coast of South America, with higher education centred on cities such as Lima, Arequipa and Cusco. Programmes range from bachelor’s degrees to master’s and doctoral study, depending on the institution, and cover fields from engineering and computing to health, business and the arts.
Students interested in mining, tourism and food may find the local context especially relevant. Teaching is often in Spanish, so check the language of instruction and any language requirements for each course. Quechua and Aymara are also spoken. The sections below cover subjects, intakes, costs, funding and student visas so you can plan your next steps.
Why study in Peru?
There is no single reason to study in Peru. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting on the Pacific coast of South America, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Engineering, Hospitality, Tourism & Events and Hospitality, Culinary & Food, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Mining, tourism and food matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Lima, Arequipa and Cusco each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Peru means everyday contact with Spanish and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Lima's National University of San Marcos, founded in 1551, is often described as the oldest university in the Americas.
Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.
Top subjects to study in Peru
If you are not sure where to start, these areas connect well with Peru’s economy and higher-education offer. The list is a starting point rather than a ranking.
- Engineering
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Hospitality, Culinary & Food
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Business & Management
Links to mining, tourism and food mean that related courses may include practical projects or industry examples, although this varies by institution. Each subject has its own page for Peru on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Universities in Peru
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano HerediaLima, Peru
- THE 2026 1001–1200
- Pontifical Catholic University of PeruSan Miguel, Peru
- THE 2026 1501+
- Universidad Científica del SurVilla II, Peru
- THE 2026 1501+
Scholarships to Study in Peru
Funding for international students in Peru can come from several sources, and what is available depends on your nationality, level of study and subject.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Peru
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Most scholarships are competitive and have their own eligibility rules, so none can be taken for granted. Read the conditions carefully, apply early and check whether funding covers tuition, living costs or both. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Peru
In Peru, the main intake for many programmes is usually around March. Some institutions also admit students around August, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Peru
Tuition in Peru varies widely: public and private institutions, subjects and study levels can all have different fees.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Programme length also matters: a longer course or a preparatory year changes the total cost. Always use the current fees published by the institution for the year you plan to start.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Peru
Before you travel, check what kind of study permission Peru requires for your nationality and course.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Peru in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Peru
Planning your living budget for Peru early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Lima can differ noticeably from those in Arequipa or Cusco and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
Ask your institution for its estimate of student living costs and plan for some extra money for arrival and emergencies.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Peru
Why should I study in Peru?
It depends on your goals. Peru offers programmes across many subjects, a location on the Pacific coast of South America and study in Spanish (with some English-taught options). Students interested in mining, tourism and food may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Peru?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Engineering, Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Hospitality, Culinary & Food and Agriculture & Environmental Sciences. The subjects page for Peru lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Peru?
Many programmes start around March. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Peru?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Peru?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Peru.
Are scholarships available for international students in Peru?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Peru?
Lima, Arequipa and Cusco are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Can I study in English in Peru?
Many courses are taught in Spanish. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
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