About us
For 27 years, CECAT has guided college and university students to Oaxaca, where they can earn academic credit, participate in healthcare-related internships and training, or even enjoy workshops for writers and artists, all while immersing themselves in Mexican culture and building friendships that last a lifetime.
“For my major, I only need two language courses; and in Oaxaca, I’m able to get them both done in 6 weeks. It’s very convenient.”
Nadia W.
Howard University
Spanish language immersion
Step into daily conversations with local instructors who push you past textbook Spanish. Whether you’ve never said a word before or have taken Spanish for years and still have trouble speaking, you leave speaking with more confidence, not just vocabulary.
Hands-on training.
Real world impact.
Work alongside local medical professionals in Oaxaca's clinics, labs, and hospitals, gaining hands-on experience you cannot get in a classroom. Students leave with practical skills and a deeper understanding of healthcare beyond the US.
Learn and interact with local students
Spend your days with Mexican students who become lifelong friends, not just classmates. From shared meals to weekend excursions, this is where real connection happens, the kind that brings students back year after year.
No one lives alone. From large, private houses to prescreened host family stays, students live with each other so that they can try new foods and enjoy the city together.
Casa Negra
Casa Negra is located just behind the major public university, a neighborhood where many local medical students live. The property features a beautiful courtyard, private rooms, and is walking distance to shopping centers, gyms, restaurants, and a movie theater.
Casa Naranja
Casa Naranja is located in the heart of el centro, only a short walk to the Zócalo, Oaxaca's iconic main square. The property features a courtyard, spacious rooms, and is surrounded by some of the city's best cafés and several Michelin-star restaurants.
Contact us for more details
Once we receive your message, we will send you additional information on your chosen program(s).
The information includes:
Application deadlines
Program cost
Discount deadlines
Program description
Travel and medical insurance
Emergency plan
Reflection videos from previous students
FAQ
Do I need to speak Spanish to a join the program?
All Spanish levels are welcome, even if you are an absolute beginner or haven’t had much success taking Spanish classes. Many students are amazed at just how much they learn in just a few days.
Will I get academic credit for this program?
There are both for-credit and non-credit program options. We work with you and your school to make sure academic credits are approved in well in advance of your arrival. For programs that include first responders training, students receive a certificate of completion. Students who need clinical hours can participate in a medica lab or children’s physical therapy program.
Is Oaxaca safe?
Oaxaca has welcomed our students from HBCUs and other institutions with mutual respect and open arms for over 27 years. Oaxaca is consistently ranked as one of the best cities in the world by magazines like Travel + Leisure and festivals and cultural holidays like the Guelaguetza and the Day of the Dead bring in thousands of tourists from all over the world. The office of the U.S. Consulate is conveniently located in downtown Oaxaca.
Where will I be staying?
No one lives alone. From large, private houses like Casa Naranja and Casa Negra, to stays with pre-screened and monitored host families with at least 10 years of experience, students stay in rooms for single or double occupancy.
How do I get more information or apply?
Fill out the interest form on the site with your school and program of interest. You will receive a follow up email with details specific to your school’s requirements and deadlines.
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