Studying Abroad In Belize: An Unforgettable Experience

Belize, often referred to as Mother Nature's best-kept secret, is a popular destination for students looking to study abroad. With its diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, and pristine landscapes, Belize offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and tropical beauty. The country is home to ancient Mayan ruins, bustling towns, vibrant marine life, and friendly people. As the only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize provides students with an immersive cultural experience while also allowing for easy navigation.

University options

Belize is a popular destination for students looking to study abroad, offering a unique blend of Caribbean charm and lush tropical beauty. The country has only three universities, but they offer high-level study programs and courses in various fields. Here are the university options for studying abroad in Belize:

University of Belize

The University of Belize is one of the three universities in the country and offers a range of programs for foreign students. It is a good option for those interested in studying in a developing country and experiencing a different cultural and academic environment. The University of Belize will assist students in obtaining a student visa upon arrival, but other travel procedures are the student's responsibility.

Galen University

Galen University, located in San Ignacio, offers a wide range of programs, particularly suitable for students interested in anthropology, archaeology, and environmental science. The surrounding Mayan lowlands serve as a "living laboratory," providing a unique context for classroom learning. Students live in a locally-owned resort and have easy access to the beaches, rivers, and rainforests that are integral to the environmental curriculum.

Central America Health Sciences University, Belize Medical College

The Belize Medical College has been training physicians for over 10 years, and its graduates include licensed physicians in the United States. The university offers degrees in Health Management, Biological Sciences, and Medical Doctorates. Applicants are evaluated based on their commitment to the medical field, originality, and motivation, in addition to academic merit.

Sacred Heart Junior College

Sacred Heart Junior College in San Ignacio is an environmentally conscious school with a focus on Environmental Science and Tourism Management. The college caters to students interested in the eco-tourism industry and offers easy credit transfer for US study abroad students. The curriculum prepares students for further studies and industrial employment, and there are plenty of tour opportunities in the area.

Marymount University

Marymount University offers a three-week Marine Biology and Tropical Ecology summer program in Gales Point, Belize. This intensive program provides students with hands-on learning experiences in the field.

CELA Belize

CELA Belize provides experiential learning programs focused on animal science, wildlife conservation, nursing, and other facets of One Health. They offer a range of field courses, including Tropical Marine Ecology, Global Perspectives in Health, and Community Health Nursing Clinical Internship.

Student life

Belize, often referred to as "Mother Nature's best-kept secret", is a tropical paradise located on the northeastern coast of Central America. It is the only English-speaking country in the region, making it a popular choice for international students. The country offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and lush tropical beauty, with pristine rainforests and barrier reefs.

Belize City, the largest city in the country, offers a mix of historical landmarks and contemporary influences. It is a bustling urban hub with museums and zoos, and easy access to the nearby Cayes (small islands). For those seeking a quieter experience, Corozal is a small town with friendly inhabitants and stunning ocean views. Dangriga, the "spiritual capital" of the Garifuna people, is an exciting and festive town known for its unique music and cultural festivals.

The country's national university, the University of Belize, has a commitment to increasing international students by offering affordable education and campus locations close to Belize's majestic sights and culture. The university has four faculties: Education and Arts, Management and Social Sciences, Science and Technology, and Nursing, Allied Health, and Social Work. It also has an Environmental Research Institute, which plays a crucial role in sustaining and protecting the country's natural resources.

Galen University, an independent academic institution located in the Cayo District, offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields, including arts, business, education, and science. Sacred Heart Junior College in San Ignacio is another option for international students, with a focus on Environmental Science and Tourism Management.

Outside of the classroom, students can explore Belize's diverse ecosystems, discover ancient archaeological sites, and immerse themselves in the vibrant Garifuna culture. The country is home to breathtaking natural wonders such as the Great Blue Hole and the ancient city of Caracol. It also offers a range of cultural experiences, such as the celebrations of Belize's Independence Day and Garifuna Settlement Day.

Scholarships

There are a variety of scholarship opportunities for students interested in studying abroad in Belize.

University-specific Scholarships

The University of Vermont offers Study Abroad Scholarships of up to $1,000 for students participating in the Women's Health and Spirituality: A Cross-Cultural Exploration program or the Belize Semester Abroad Program in Sustainable Development.

The University of Houston provides International Education Fee Scholarships to undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students based on a combination of criteria, including their program of study, academic record, and financial need. They also offer the Houston Junior Chamber of Commerce Scholarships to students of all levels, with preference given to those who have not previously studied abroad or who are enrolled in longer programs.

Michigan State University's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources offers scholarships ranging from $250 to $1,750 for their Entrepreneurship and Development: Agriculture and Environmental Studies in Belize program. Students can also apply for the Kellogg Foundation Scholarships, which are awarded to outstanding students studying agriculture, natural resources, or business.

Country-specific Scholarships

The Organization of American States (OAS), based in Washington, DC, offers financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students from its 35 member states, including Belize. Scholarships are awarded for up to 12 months and can be extended. At the undergraduate level, students can enroll in a program of their choice at an institution in an OAS member state, excluding their country of origin or permanent residence. Graduate studies (excluding introductory language studies and medical sciences) and graduate research are also eligible for funding. OAS also provides numerous professional development scholarships and programs, including online options.

Other Scholarships

ProWorld Scholarships are awarded based on a combination of merit and need. Recipients are required to give a presentation to their community after receiving the scholarship, and fundraising tools are provided to help with additional expenses.

The University of Belize offers several scholarships, including the Anil Sinha Memorial Associate in Agriculture Scholarship, the Lorenzo Cacho Memorial Scholarship, the Blue Coral Management Scholarship, the Turneffe Flats Tourism Scholarship, and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology Scholarship. These scholarships often require applicants to be citizens of Belize, demonstrate financial need, and meet academic requirements.

Additionally, the Development Finance Corporation (DFC) offers educational financing for Associate and Bachelor's degree programs, covering tuition, fees, books, travel costs, and accommodation. Banks and credit unions in Belize also provide student loans.

Students should also explore scholarship opportunities specific to their home country or region, as well as those offered by their home university or college.

Entry requirements

To study abroad in Belize, you will need to meet the entry requirements set by your chosen university and the country itself. Here are the key requirements to keep in mind:

University Entry Requirements

When applying to study at a university in Belize, you will typically need to submit the following documents:

• Completed application form: Each university will have its own application form, which you need to fill out and submit, along with the required application fee.
• Academic transcripts and certificates: Official transcripts and certificates from your previous education are usually required. These should be translated into English if they are in another language.
• Proof of English language proficiency: As English is the official language of instruction in Belize, you will need to provide test scores from English language tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL.
• Letters of recommendation: Most universities will require at least two letters of recommendation from academic referees who can attest to your academic abilities and suitability for the program.
• Personal statement or essay: This is your chance to showcase your interests, academic goals, and reasons for choosing to study in Belize.
• Medical clearance: Some universities may require a medical examination report or health certificate to ensure you are in good health and fit to study.

Country-Specific Entry Requirements

When entering Belize as a student, there are additional requirements to keep in mind:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Belize.
• Student visa: Depending on the length of your program, you may need to apply for a student visa. The type of visa and duration of stay will depend on your specific circumstances.
• Proof of financial support: You may need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during your stay in Belize.
• Health insurance: It is important to have adequate health insurance coverage for the duration of your studies in Belize.
• COVID-19 requirements: Keep yourself updated with any COVID-19 related entry requirements, such as vaccination certificates or negative test results.

It is always advisable to check the latest information on entry requirements from official government sources and your chosen university in Belize. Each institution may have specific requirements, so ensure you carefully review their application guidelines.

Popular destinations

Belize is a country of many cayes (small islands), inland tropical forests, pristine rivers, ancient Mayan temples, and sacred caves. Along its 300 miles of Caribbean coastline lies the second-longest barrier reef in the world. The Belize Barrier Reef is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising seven Marine Protected Areas.

Belize City is the largest city in Belize and offers a mix of historical landmarks and contemporary influences. It is a bustling hub with plenty of museums and zoos, and it provides easy access to the surrounding cayes.

Corozal is a small town with friendly inhabitants and stunning ocean views. It is a great option for those seeking a quieter and more affordable destination away from the populated cities.

Dangriga, the largest town in Southern Belize, is known as the "spiritual capital" of the Garifuna people. It is a festive and exciting town with a unique musical heritage, as it is the birthplace of "punta rock".

San Ignacio is home to Galen University, which offers a wide range of programs, particularly in anthropology, archaeology, and environmental science. The area surrounding the university serves as a "living laboratory" for students in these fields.

The Sacred Heart Junior College in San Ignacio is another environmentally conscious school that offers programs in Environmental Science and Tourism Management. It is the only school in Belize with established processes for quality assurance.

For those interested in medicine and health sciences, the Central American Health Sciences University in Belize City is a great option. The university has been training physicians for over 10 years, and many of its graduates are now licensed physicians in the United States.

Frequently asked questions