CIEE-Kyoto

Program Details

Program Location Kyoto, Japan
Sponsor CIEE
Program Type Co-sponsored
Duration Summer
Upcoming Program Dates
Summer 2026 06/29/26 to 08/08/26
Summer 2026 05/18/26 to 08/08/26
Summer 2026 05/18/26 to 06/27/26
Page Links
Click here to apply for this program!
Please Note: Programs may be altered or adapted with little notice

Overview

CIEE-Kyoto

Kyoto is Japan’s cultural heart, renowned for its rich history, serene temples, and stunning traditional architecture. In the summer, the city comes alive with vibrant festivals, lush gardens, and peaceful temples, offering a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. Iconic landmarks like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine shine in the warm summer light. Whether you’re studying language, history, the arts, or religious studies, Kyoto is the perfect place to study abroad.

Your Summer Ancient + Modern Japan program in Kyoto lasts 6 weeks (or up to 12) and is designed for students passionate about traditional Japanese culture. You will enroll in CIEE courses taught at CIEE Kyoto. Enhance your experience with extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Japanese culture. Live and learn in Kyoto! 

For more program information, please visit the program website. This program is sponsored by:CIEE.

Eligibility

CIEE-Kyoto

The program is open to Purdue students in good standing who have completed at least two semesters of university study by the start of the program. Successful candidates will demonstrate academic success, maturity, and a desire to experience another culture.

GPA Requirement: 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
Language Requirement: none


Purdue Credit

Direct Credit available from the following: [College of Liberal Arts]

Students interested in completing courses while abroad from Purdue colleges or departments that are not listed above should discuss this with their study abroad advisor before applying to the program.


Academic Program

Students may enroll in one or two summer blocks of this program, each block lasting six weeks and offering six credits. 

In each block, students will enroll in two classes. Classes offered are based on Japanese language, culture, history, and art. 

During course selection, students interested in a non-introductory language course will be required to take a language assessment to determine their proficiency level. Enrollment will be finalized on site and is based on assessment outcomes.? 

For more class information, visit the CIEE website.  

Please note that while CIEE offers the opportunity to take online coursework through ASU Online, Purdue students are not permitted to enroll in these options during the program and must take their coursework directly through CIEE and/or the local partner universities they partner with (where applicable).


Excursions

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Kyoto will open doors for you to explore Japan’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.    

Samples of past excursions and activities:

  • Hike up Mt. Hiei to World Heritage Site Enryaku-ji, the head temple of the Tendai Sect of Buddhism
  • Enjoy a train ride to visit breathtaking temples like Jakko-in and Sanzen-in
  • Take a day trip to Nara with its great seated Buddha in Todaiji temple

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and are subject to change. 


Housing

CIEE Kyoto offers diverse housing options, including shared apartments located within a 20-minute commute of CIEE Kyoto, homestays, or hotel. Our housing options are conveniently located within walking distance of restaurants, cafés, shops, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and public transportation.  

Some housing options carry an additional fee, and amenities and commute time will vary - see CIEE website for more information. 


Estimated Program Costs

Students pursuing program participation accept financial responsibility. Purdue will take measures to mitigate financial risks, although will not be liable for loss.
 
Students should carefully note what costs need to be paid to Purdue University or to a co-sponsor or agency, and what costs need to be paid at the overseas study location.  This will vary by program.

Cost information below is listed for a single six-week block. Students looking to do two blocks should note that costs will be approximately double for the program and housing fees, and check the CIEE website for additional information. 

Program fee includes: tuition, standard housing, orientation, pre-departure and on-site support, emergency assistance, insurance, cultural activities, and excursions. 

Costs for this program are estimated and subject to change. The cost figures listed below are for: Summer 2026

Costs per term to be billed by Purdue and Co-sponsor
Program Fee $5,250.00
Study Abroad Fee $609.40
Housing $2,000.00
Insurance $200.00

Approximate additional costs per term
To be paid by the student.
Round-trip Airfare $1,700.00
Local Transportation $150.00
Books and Supplies $100.00
Meals $642.00
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $0.00 - $500.00
Travel Documents (passport, photos) $175.00

Financial Aid

Purdue University financial aid may be applied to the costs of studying abroad. Students interested in receiving financial aid should

NOTE:  Recipients of certain tuition remission and scholarship programs should pay careful attention to the regulations for using those benefits for study abroad.  Ask your financial aid advisor about any limitations.

Click here for a list of scholarships and grants available to assist with the costs of studying overseas.


Application Deadlines

For full consideration, students must submit all supporting documents (typically an essay, transcripts, 1-2 recommendations, and copy of passport) before or by the application deadline.  Popular programs fill quickly, often before the deadline. To ensure a place in a program, apply early.

As soon as a student submits an online application, a My Study Abroad account is created. Applicants should consult this page often to check on the status of the application.

Program Application Deadline
Summer Programs Mar 1



Returnees Information

CIEE-Kyoto

Click below to search for Purdue students who have participated in this program and are willing to be contacted.  If you get no results, you can use the search form to find people who studied in the country you are interested in.


Resources

The websites listed below contain information about this program. The accuracy of information at external sites cannot be guaranteed.


For more information on this program, please contact the Study Abroad Office by phone (765) 494-2383 or email studyabroad@purdue.edu.