IFSA University of Havana
- Location: Havana, Cuba
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Language of Instruction: Spanish
- Class Eligibility: Juniors
Introduction
Set where the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico meet the Caribbean, this nation is just 90 miles southeast of the Florida Keys, yet feels a world away. Although Cuba shares many aspects of its physical beauty with its neighbors—pristine beaches; lush, green mountains; and urban palm trees—its culture, politics, and economy are unlike any other. In Cuba, one comes face-to-face with history and learns firsthand how historic events influence the present. At the same time, however, students in Cuba will see daily changes as the country adapts to the new century and prepares for the future. Culturally, Cuba offers a rich setting for an international student. The country is known for the arts, including the Afro-Cuban beats that dominate Cuba’s omnipresent and inspiring array of music, or the world-class movie industry.
- Visa:
Required. Non-US citizens should consult with IFSA and the Office of International Student Support before applying to the program.
Additional Visa Information - Fees: Students pay Haverford directly to Haverford. Haverford will then be responsible for submitting tuition payment to IFSA. Students pay all room and board costs directly to IFSA.
Academic Overview
Requirements
Since students are expected to have attained a usable level of language proficiency, one course beyond intermediate Spanish or its equivalent of 4 semesters of Spanish is required. Haverford recommends that students have at least one course at the 200-level in Spanish. Students should successfully complete a Spanish course the semester before studying abroad. Native Spanish speakers or other students who have not taken university-level Spanish must take a Spanish placement exam.
Direct Enrollment
Universidad de La Habana (UH) is Cuba’s oldest university. UH offers study in 15 faculties, and its academic excellence attracts students from throughout Latin America and around the world. Located next to the heart of Havana’s historic district, UH offers a unique study abroad opportunity for the adventurous and flexible student.
Students on this program should be flexible and patient, as university affairs in Cuba will be quite unlike those in the U.S.
Academic Credit
Students choose their course load from UH courses alongside Cuban students. Students can only choose four or five electives from the Facultad de Artes y Letras and Facultad de Filosofia e Historia. Major, minor, and concentration transfer credit will only be granted for courses in which students received a grade of a C or above.
Curriculum
The university restricts what departments are open to study abroad students. Refer to IFSA’s website for the most up-to-date information. The classes are mostly lecture-style and range from 15-35 students in a class.
Course Highlights
African Studies, Anthropology, Art History, Community Studies, Cultural Studies, Ecology, European History, Historic Preservation and Conservation, History, International Studies/Affairs/Relations, Latin American Studies, Literature, Philosophy, Political Science, Population Studies, Sociology, Spanish
Note: Changes occur frequently. Students are responsible for finding the classes they need and consulting the official site of the institution.
Non-Academic Overview
Orientation
The eight-day on-site orientation includes transportation, accommodation, activities, and some meals. The orientation includes an introduction to Cuban Spanish and culture, a discussion of academic differences and expectations, and IFSA-Butler staff-led sessions on academics, living in Cuba, and integrating into the host university.
Number of Students
5-15
Housing/Meal Plans
Host family – Your homestay will be arranged with a carefully selected host family and located within walking distance of the university in the Vedado district of Havana. One student is housed per family for maximum cultural and language integration. You will have a single bedroom with air conditioning, a shared or personal bathroom, a desk or other designated place to study, and access to a refrigerator. All linens, laundry, and three meals per day are included.
Please note there is extremely limited WiFi available in Cuba.
Notes
Please note that the United States does not have diplomatic relations with Cuba and as such, there is no U.S. consulate or embassy in Cuba. Students who are applying to Cuba must have both parents sign the Parent Waiver on the Travel Resources website. We also strongly suggest that parents of students studying abroad, especially in Cuba, also have valid passports.
Additional Resources
- Support for LGTBQIA+ Students
- IFSA Inclusive Excellence
- Mental Health & Self Care While Abroad
- Diversity Abroad
Options
- Semester
- Direct Enrollment
Dates
- Semester I: August to December
- Semester II: January to May
Application Deadlines
- Semester I: March 15
- Semester II: October 1