Picture this: you're cooking mansaf with your Jordanian neighbors, sharing stories in Arabic over tea and exploring the ancient ruins of Jerash while earning UMD credit toward your degree. Education Abroad is excited to announce Maryland-in-Amman, a new study abroad program launching Spring 2026 that transforms Jordan's vibrant capital into your classroom. This innovative partnership with the Arabic Studies Program in the School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures offers an immersive experience that goes far beyond traditional classroom learning. Applications are open now through September 30.
"Maryland-in-Amman, Jordan is more than a language learning program that offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the language and culture of the region,” says Ahmed Hanafy, Senior Lecturerer of the Arabic Studies Program. “As a welcoming country with deep historical roots, Jordan offers our students something you simply can't replicate in a classroom: the chance to wake up thinking in Arabic, to negotiate prices in local markets, and to build genuine friendships across cultures.”
What sets Maryland-in-Amman apart is its unique community-based approach. You'll live in apartments alongside fellow study abroad students and Jordanian neighbors called jiran who become your cultural guides, language practice partners and lifelong friends. The program is designed to meet you where you are, whether you're an absolute beginner or continuing your language studies, you will take intensive courses in both Modern Standard Arabic and Jordanian dialect, then customize your experience with an internship at a local organization or electives in everything from Middle Eastern politics to Islamic art history.
“We at UMD strongly believe that the abroad component of learning Arabic is the most critical for the richness of knowledge and self-enrichment gained from immersion in the language and culture daily," says Hanafy. “When students return, they don’t just speak Arabic better; they see the world differently.”
Through our academic partner, CET Jordan, Maryland-in-Amman students receive top-tier language instruction and dedicated onsite support, ensuring you have a safety net as you navigate this life-changing experience.
“Our partnership with CET Jordan has proven invaluable over the years—they understand how to challenge students academically while supporting them through the inevitable moments of culture shock and breakthrough,” says Hanafy.
As a Maryland-in program, students benefit from lower costs, plus access to both Education Abroad and CET scholarships. Your overseas coursework returns to UMD as a combination resident and transfer credit, keeping you on track for graduation while you're gaining the kind of cross-cultural competency that employers increasingly value.
Applications for the inaugural Spring 2026 semester are open now through September 30. Maryland-in-Amman will be offered during fall, spring and summer semesters. All UMD students in good academic standing can apply regardless of major or Arabic language experience—this program welcomes everyone from journalism students seeking global perspective to future diplomats building language skills. Don't miss this opportunity to turn the bustling streets of Amman into your classroom.