11 Helpful Gap Year Program Reviews

Gap years can be life-changing experiences. They are opportunities for you to step away from your normal life and experience something new through experiential learning. But...there are so many different types of gap year programs to choose from—how do you make the right decision?

Have a destination in mind? It’ll help you narrow down your choices.

You can try to narrow down programs by your interests and what you want to get out of the experience. You could search by location, deciding to go somewhere you’ve always wanted to go or somewhere you know nothing about.

You’ll have to find a program that fits in your price range and timeframe, which helps to narrow down even further. And perhaps the most important resource that you can use are reviews from past participants.

Reading gap year program reviews can give you a better feel for the program and if it’s right for you. You can learn much more from alumni and their experiences than you can by reading facts from a program’s website.

Reviews give you an opportunity to imagine yourself in someone else’s shoes, living an everyday life on a gap year program. So what are you waiting for? Read the best gap year program reviews below to find your next adventure!

READ MORE: Why You Should Take a Gap Year

11 best gap year program reviews

1. Projects Abroad: Gap Year Abroad

“This past year I had the most amazing opportunity to travel around the world volunteering with people my age. I met friends on the trip and in each country that I still communicate with. The staff was so hands-on, especially in Ghana and Peru. They always made sure we were happy and had everything that we needed.” —10/10

• Highlights: Projects Abroad offers every type of gap year experience in almost any location so you can truly find something you’re interested in. From volunteering in Thailand to a food discovery tour, you’ll definitely make friends and lasting memories. The award-winning provider offers 24-hour support to all participants, and ensures that your work contributes to the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.
• Read more Projects Abroad reviews

2. African Impact: A Meaningful Gap Year in Africa

“I have had the most amazing time with African Impact; gaining new skills, making lifelong friends, and forever being inspired. The whole office is warm and welcoming, making you feel like part of the team from day one. I couldn't have wished for a better experience and can't thank African Impact enough!” —10/10

• Highlights: African Impact has more than 70 different program placements so you can get the most out of your gap year experience. You can gain professional experience under different personal mentors, experience African wildlife, and give back to the communities you’re living in through community development, empowerment, and conservation projects.
• Read more African Impact reviews

3. Gapforce: Australia Adventure

“Can’t stress enough how amazing this trip was in every way. Totally prepared me to travel on my own in countries across the world, increased my confidence when talking to people, and taught me how to be an adult (or some parts of it). They allow the perfect level of flexibility and independence while also making sure you are safe.” —10/10

• Highlights: Just one of the many gap year programs that Gapforce offers, Australia Adventure packs in adventure and volunteering all along the East Coast. From jeep rides to snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, your time will surely be memorable. If you want to stay longer and work in Australia, Gapforce also has an optional visa and work assistance package to help you get started.
• Read more Gapforce reviews

4. Pacific Discovery: New Zealand and Australia Gap Year/Semester

“Taking a gap year was one of the best decisions I have made. The conservation projects were engaging and the people were knowledgeable and passionate. From planting trees for koalas to working with school kids to walking trap lines for invasive species, exploring Australia and New Zealand off the beaten path was spectacular. A few highlights included a canoeing trip, white water rafting, abseiling, sleeping next to a glow worm infested waterfall, and seeing all of the different wildlife.” —10/10

• Highlights: The New Zealand and Australia Gap Year or Semester from Pacific Discovery allows you to travel in small groups and learn from experienced international instructors. Through camping trips, conservation projects, and learning to surf (to name a few activities), you’ll develop a global perspective, leadership skills, and independence for the rest of your life.
• Read more Pacific Discovery reviews

5. The Intern Group: International Internships in Dublin

“My months researching and analysing social policy for an Irish nonprofit were an unparalleled, transformative experience. The staff did an outstanding job matching me with my organisation. The sheer amount of care put into making sure that I benefited from the experience as much as my employers did is one of many reasons why choosing TIG one of the best decisions I've made.” —10/10

• Highlights: With the Intern Group, you can participate in quality international internships all over the world to help you gain the experience and skills for whatever career you choose. Beyond an internship placement, you’ll participate in professional development opportunities, have constant support, explore your city with other interns, and get to experience life in another country.
• Read more The Intern Group reviews

6. Carpe Diem Education: Central America Semester

“I was incredibly burnt out after high school, so I decided to take a gap year. My Overseas Educators were amazing, incredible leaders who encouraged us to be open-minded and supported us. Our experiences brought us into the lives of locals and we explored the many beautiful natural surroundings. I will forever be grateful to Carpe for this life-changing experience that has truly become the foundation for how I live my life.” —10/10

• Highlights: All of Carpe Diem Education’s gap year programs put you in a small group so you can focus on language, leadership, and learning, while truly getting to know your peers. Through intensive language classes, homestays, yoga and meditation classes, scuba training, and volunteer projects, you’ll learn more than you ever could by staying home!
• Read more Carpe Diem Education reviews

7. Seamester Study Abroad at Sea: Gap Year Voyages

“During the time I was at sea exploring the Caribbean, learning to sail, and becoming a Divemaster, I gained confidence in myself and my passions, and came away knowing that the ocean was what I wanted to devote my life to and that I had the ability to make a difference. Thank you for giving me opportunities that can change lives.” —10/10

• Highlights: Why stay in one place when you can sail to many different places, while earning PADI scuba diving and IYT sailing certifications? You’ll have a chance to truly bond with your crewmates, put your skills to use right away, and learn by doing. The journeys are always changing, so you can always find a voyage that most interests you.
• Read more Seamester reviews

8. Gapforce: Expedition Leader Training

“The last four months have been a serious test of grit and perseverance. The instructors are awesome, supportive, and experienced people who help you discover strengths you didn’t think you had. I’ve come away with a clear idea of the direction I want to take and relevant, industry recognised qualifications. If you’re currently wondering if this course is worth the investment, then I can 100% confirm that signing up will be the best choice you make.” —10/10

• Highlights: Challenge yourself to the extreme while earning valuable certifications for leading trips. You’ll have a chance to participate in a cave rescue training and prove all your skills on a solo survival trip, as well as plan and lead an expedition for others. The skills you gain from the Expedition Leader Training will stay with you for the rest of your life.
• Read more Gapforce reviews

9. Winterline Global Education: 9 Months. 10 Countries. 100 Skills. The Best Gap Year Ever.

“Wilderness first aid, scuba, basic life support, business start ups, urban innovation, permaculture and sustainability, sustainable fishing, lifeguarding, these are just a handful of skills I can now say I’ve done. Winterline global skills is different from any program, they want you to succeed and they want to push you totally and willingly out of your comfort zone.” —10/10

• Highlights: With Winterline Global Education’s Gap Year program, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a new place every week and learn skills specific to that location, yet universal in application. You can explore your passions and find new ones, make life-long friendships, and prepare yourself for whatever future you choose.
• Read more Winterline Education reviews

10. Thinking Beyond Borders: Global Gap Year

“TBB had the most educated, passionate individual country directors and it doesn't pretend to be anything it's not. TBB acknowledged the white savior complex all service trips seem to have, and—rather than running from it—they asked us to lean into it and discuss it. If you want seven months of eye opening food, culture, architecture, readings, and conversations, TBB is IT.” —10/10

• Highlights: Through exploring different countries and staying with local homestays, you will get to learn and love so many places! Thinking Beyond Borders helps you address critical global issues and have a meaningful social impact with the support of knowledgeable Program Leaders and local community leaders.
• Read more Thinking Beyond Borders reviews

11. Chinese Language Institute: Chinese Immersion Program

“I spoke ZERO Chinese before arriving at CLI. Now I'm holding conversations with shopkeepers and taxi drivers. It's amazing. CLI's one-on-one method of teaching in THE BEST learning experience I've ever had in a language. The facility is beautiful, warm, and welcoming—it feels like a home. The staff is friendly, encouraging, and are truly top-notch teachers.” —10/10

• Highlights: The Chinese Language Institute provides you with one-on-one, personalized language practice and immersion to help you become fluent in no time! As China’s leading language and cultural center, you will have quality teachers and tailored lessons for your goals. You also have the option to stay with a host family to further practice your language, teach English to Chinese students, and participate on cultural excursions during your time abroad.
• Read more Chinese Language Institute reviews

Can’t pick? Compare these programs side-by-side with your FREE MyGoAbroad account!

Let these gap year reviews guide your decision!

The only wrong way to take a gap year is to not take one at all.

Gap years come in many shapes and sizes, and it can seem overwhelming to choose one. Reading gap year program reviews can help demystify some of that process and imagine what the program offers.

These gap year reviews are just a handful of all the great things alumni have to say about their programs, so feel free to explore more and find the right program for you! By weighing the best gap year program reviews with the worst, you can get an accurate picture of what the experience is like.

Explore ALL gap year programs on GoAbroad.com