What do you look for when picking out a hotel for your weekend getaway? Reviews. What makes you feel confident the restaurant will be tantalizing to your taste buds? Reviews. What helps you trust that the company behind a product is legitimate? Reviews.
So, when you’re searching for a meaningful travel program abroad and you want to know your life is in good hands, what should look for? You guessed it, REVIEWS!
Reviews are becoming more and more important as travelers worldwide want to know what real-life participants have to say before choosing an international program. After all, your life will be in their hands as you embark on a new adventure into uncharted territory.
We already released the Where’s Where of Travel Destinations for 2018, to help you choose the best destinations, but now it’s time for more. Below we’ve compiled a list of Who’s Who in international travel, based on real reviews from past participants*.
Top Rated Organizations of 2017
Starting your search for a program abroad can be a bit scary, but, we’re here to make it friendly, feasible, and fun! Don’t just take our word for it, hear what past participants have to say before you choose your next adventure abroad. Get your search started with our top rated organizations of 2017!
Top Rated Study Abroad Organizations of 2017
1. IES Abroad
“Of course, I was nervous before embarking on this journey, knowing I would spend the next few months in a new countries surrounded by new people. However, IES quickly eased my fears...They were friendly, approachable and truly cared about our well-being...They truly go above and beyond!” -- Daria, Alumni Study Abroad Student
2. University Studies Abroad Consortium
“I had the most amazing time studying abroad! It is difficult to put into words how wonderful the experience was, to be immersed into a new country with a different culture. I am incredibly grateful for USAC helping me with everything along the way and for providing the opportunity for students like me to have this experience.” -- Sona, Alumni Study Abroad Student
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Top Rated Internship Organization of 2017
1. The Intern Group
“Arriving in a foreign country by yourself can be intimidating, but The Intern Group made the transition a smooth as possible...Holistically the experience was one-of-a-kind, providing both valuable internship experience and engaging social aspects. I truly recommend this program to anyone interested in a unique, dynamic work environment...” -- Danny, Alumni Intern
2. Absolute Internship
“Absolute Internship is more than just an internship abroad. It’s all about seeing the world in a different way, the incredible people you meet, the delicious food you eat, the places you visit, and the life skills that you gain...It’s a fantastic program for a college student that wants to learn more about yourself, meet other students, and develop skills that will prepare you for a job after graduation.” -- Alicia, Alumni Intern
3. The Global Internship by We Find Group
“We Find Group did a great job guiding me through every step of the process to find an internship abroad, and made sure that everything this summer ran smoothly. I would recommend this program to anybody considering it.” -- Greg, Alumni Intern
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Top Rated Volunteer Organizations of 2017
1. African Impact
“I loved staying with African Impact. I learned so much and the people were great. Every activity I did had a purpose and I felt like I was really making a difference. I highly recommend it to others, and I would love to return.” -- mdefe15, Alumni Volunteer
2. International Volunteer HQ
“My decision to volunteer with IVHQ in Ghana was one of the best decisions in my life...We were warmly welcomed by both, the other volunteers and the locals. The work we did was very versatile [and] everything was well organized from the beginning to the end...I had an unforgettable time with unforgettable people.” -- Vera, Alumni Volunteer
3. Frontier
“A brilliant first hand experience of wildlife conservation in a unique place. Everything from camp life, people, community work, the scientific work AND the amazing, beautiful, odd and colourful animals were magnificent. Truly an experience that will stay in my memory forever!” -- Loreta, Alumni Volunteer
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Top Rated TEFL Certification Companies of 2017
1. UNI-Prep Institute
“I had a great time completing my TESOL/TEFL course with UNI-Prep. It was self-paced and convenient, so I could take it when I had time. I enjoyed every aspect of the learning process and recommend anyone looking to get their certification to use UNI-Prep.” - Mike, TEFL Graduate
2. Asian College of Teachers
“It was wonderful and marvellous learning, exploring, understanding, and meeting new people. The TEFL curriculum is innovative and easy to implement in classroom teaching. I never imagined that this course would bring out the creativity and confidence in me...I would say that anyone who is passionate about teaching should join ACT TEFL.” -- Jerusha, TEFL Graduate
3. Maximo Nivel
“Who knew that taking a 4-week intensive course learning how to teach English could be one of the most fun, entertaining, enlightening, fulfilling experiences you could have?! Maximo Nivel has your back every step of the way...You get so much more than an international TEFL qualification - you get life skills and precious contacts that will serve you forever!” -- Liz, TEFL Graduate
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Top Rated Youth Travel Organizations of 2017
1. The Experiment in International Living
“I felt extremely safe during the trip and my leaders were exceedingly helpful, whether pointing your group towards a point of interest or giving insight into adapting into the culture. There were several opportunities...to work outside [my] comfort zone [and] this program also aided in the development of my own leadership skills...This program became an unforgettable experience to me as I look forward to going abroad with The Experiment again.” -- Mathieu, Alumni Participant
2. Travel for Teens
“Packing in so many countries is difficult, but TFT has created an itinerary that leaves everyone satisfied at every stop...I loved getting to experience so many cultures and countries on this trip, and I would highly recommend it to anyone...I always felt safe, and the staff did a wonderful job dealing with any bumps in the road.” -- Sarah, Alumni Participant
3. Sol Abroad
“I definitely recommend this program to anyone looking to gain a once-in-a-lifetime experience and increase their comfort with and knowledge of Spanish. I loved the activities with the program and the flexibility and genuine friendliness of the directors and host parents. I also really enjoyed how we were given time to explore the city on our own, to eat out in restaurants, and to chat with our host parents. ¡Muchas gracias SolAbroad!” -- sday, Alumni Participant
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Top Rated Language Schools of 2017
1. Uppsala International Summer Session
“The nine weeks I spent at the Uppsala International Summer Session last summer were superb...The program offered rich opportunities to experience Sweden, [and] the staff were helpful, competent, and supportive. However, the most important thing to me was the quality of the language instruction...I could not have been happier with the quality of the Swedish classes I took, with highly trained instructors and outstanding materials.” -- Jill, Alumni Student
2. Habla Ya Spanish Schools
“Both my teachers were highly skilled, patient, and talked slowly enough for me to understand. They prepared well for each class, and they went with the flow of the conversation. Habla Ya was not boring and filled with the teacher talking most of time. Instead, I learned by practicing and repetition. I highly recommend Habla Ya!” -- Edward, Alumni Student
3. First EDT Learning Center
“I had a good time in EDT/JWE because all of my teachers took care of me to improve my English skills...They made me use and enjoy English [and] I sincerely appreciate them for helping me...the environment of the school is considerably clean, quiet, and pleasant...I definitely recommend EDT/JWE to [anyone]!” -- Damon, Alumni Student
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Top Rated Programs of 2017
We know you don’t only want to know that the organization you’re looking at rocks participants sock off; of course, you also want to know that the particular program you’re going to be participating in is extraordinary. Check out the Top Rated Programs below to ensure your adventure abroad is “top rated” in every way!
Top Rated Study Abroad Programs of 2017
1. College Year in Athens: Study Abroad in Greece
“CYA was the most amazing experience. They have the best professors that are brilliant, funny, and kind as well as an incredibly supportive staff. The field trips we went on enabled me to see more of Greece than I thought I could and I am eternally grateful. Would recommend this program to anyone and everyone, 10/10!” -- emcfee, Alumni Study Abroad Student
2. American Institute for Foreign Study: Study Abroad in Barcelona
"My time in Barcelona with AIFS was without a doubt, the best four months of my life, and the most valuable of all of my college experiences. I chose AIFS initially because they were the cheapest option of all of the programs that I looked at. However, after becoming a part of the AIFS family, I really can say that I chose the best program, and not just the most affordable. Every aspect of studying abroad with AIFS blew me away." -- Greta, Alumni Study Abroad Student
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Top Rated Internship Programs of 2017
1. GVI: Safari Field Guide Course in South Africa
“[The] course is fun and informative, with great hands on training. You get up close and personal with nature. Trainers are well educated and very knowledgeable. The course, in general, is well planned, enjoyable, and gives you the perspective that you worked/trained already in a lodge environment. I will recommend this course to anyone who wishes to start in the guiding industry.” -- Chris, Alumni Intern
2. The Intern Group: International Internships in New York
“My experience in New York with the Intern Group was brilliant. From the day I applied to my last day in the city I was well looked after and had excellent support...I learnt so much from my internship and am so grateful for such a great placement. I know for sure it will benefit me greatly now being back in London and searching for a job.” - Nikki, Alumni Intern
3. The Global Internship by We Find Group: Intern in Madrid
“… My internship and my experience in Madrid has truly been the best time of my life. Personally and professionally speaking, I have achieved so much growth and seen so many new experiences because of this placement...My bosses at the company were fantastic and will serve as mentors and friends in the future. I was able to learn so much just by watching them and how they work in this environment.” -- Alec, Alumni Intern
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Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs of 2017
1. African Impact: Hands-On Lion Conservation Volunteering at Antelope Park
“It was an experience that I will never forget. I've made so many friends from all over the world. I've worked close with the lions and I feel that I've personally become a part of the project. Hearing the lions roar when you're going to bed. Seeing the lion handlers and how passionate they are about the lions has been an amazing experience. I really do recommend this project for all animal lovers.” -- Stine, Alumni Volunteer
2. SLV Global: Psychology Internships Abroad - Sri Lanka
“ SLV Global provides an excellent opportunity for mental health volunteer work for anyone interested in gaining experience in the field of global mental health. Through my placement, working with individuals on a variety of different projects, I was continually surprised by the variety of new things I learned on a daily basis…For me personally, having the opportunity to sit alongside a psychiatrist working in the field...was equally humbling and eye-opening.” - mdellacrosse, Alumni Volunteer
3. BLUE Missions: Water & Sanitation Projects
“I can hands down say that BLUE [Missions] was one of (if not the best) experiences of my life...Knowing that you are helping these families attain such basic necessities (water and latrines) that weren't as easily accessible before is one of the best feelings imaginable. And not only are you providing for them, you are getting to know people in the communities and your volunteer group that make life-long impacts as well as friendships...” -- Katie, Alumni Volunteer
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Top Rated TEFL Certification Programs of 2017
1. UNI-Prep Institute: 120 Hour - Accredited TESOL/TEFL Certificate Online
“I thoroughly enjoyed taking this course. I was provided with an abundance of helpful material and information. Each unit provided a lecture/video, reading material, and often additional sources to read and learn from. I also have a very busy schedule, but with this course I was able to work at my own pace, and complete it within a time frame that worked for me. I would recommend this course to others.” -- Emileigh, TEFL Graduate
2. Asian College of Teachers: TEFL Certification & Teaching in India
“ It was really a great experience for me and i took this as a great opportunity to full fill my drawbacks in my teaching. Learned with excellent class room infrastructure and learned a lot of classroom management, behavior management in class, difference between kindergarten teaching and adult teaching and also i learned how to teach in language deficit countries…Overall my experience in ACT - TEFL Kochi is completely satisfactory and comfortable.” --A.Kavichelvan, TEFL Graduate
3. Maximo Nivel: TEFL Certification in Costa Rica
“No matter if you are already a trained teacher or just discovered your inner teacher, allow yourself this 4 week course with Maximo Nivel. It's intense, inspiring and simply fantastic. The staff here in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica are extremely professional and will give you a warm welcome, and help you with everything you need…I would never have thought that English grammar could be so much fun...” -- Maria, TEFL Graduate
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Top Rated Youth Travel Programs of 2017
1. GVI: High School Volunteer & Adventure Experience in Nepal
“The third world country experience helped widen my perspective from a small town life in America,... Working with and for the Tibetan kids in their hostel furthered that contrast between lives. As far as tourist attraction go, the peace pagoda was by far my favourite, the views were breathtaking…Lastly, the trek was my favourite part of the trip….Mountain views were indescribable and probably the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen.” -- Willow, Alumni Participant
2. Summerfuel: The Oxford University Experience - Summer Course for Teens
"The program fosters independence and exploration in academics and personal experience and I feel that I grew so much in 4 weeks. Summerfuel found the perfect balance between fun classes, always having exciting things to do and see and plenty of free time to hang out. I thoroughly enjoyed his Oxford summer!" -- Ethan, Alumni Participant
3. Sol Abroad: High School Study Abroad Program in Argentina
“I loved this program! I went to Buenos Aires, Argentina and stayed with my host mom in an apartment building across the hall from another host mom, and both were very friendly, happy, and easy to talk to (the food was also great)...I think that the program really helped me to gain confidence in my Spanish-speaking skills and it helped me to get better at speaking and listening…I loved the activities with the program and the flexibility and genuine friendliness of the directors and host parents…” -- sday, Alumni Participant
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Top Rated Language Programs of 2017
1. Uppsala: International Summer Session
“The nine weeks I spent at the Uppsala International Summer Session last summer were superb.The program offered rich opportunities to experience Sweden, including performances, events, day trips, and weekend outings. The staff were helpful, competent, and supportive. However, the most important thing to me was the quality of the language instruction.” - Jill, Alumni Student
2. Habla Ya Spanish Schools: Spanish in Panama City, Bocas del Toro & Boquete
“I have learned 4 weeks Spanish at Habla Ya in May/ June 2017 (3 weeks in Bocas and 1 in Boquete). I have really enjoyed learning Spanish and got to the basic conversational level. The course is well structured, the facilities are good and the teachers are well motivated…Overall, it was a great experience!” -- Roel, Alumni Student
3. First EDT Learning Center: Learn English in Subic
“The teachers are fantastic. The class instruction is organized. The school provides a safe, loving and secure environment. Children absolutely love attending this school. And on a last note, the school program offered is amazing.” -- hyrabelles, Alumni Student
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Notable Mentions - Our Top Rated Runner Ups!
We would also like to recognize the extraordinary organizations listed below for their dedication to quality, overall participant satisfaction, and of course international education in 2017. Though they didn’t make our top rated list due to some hefty competition within their field, they are nonetheless great organizations to consider!
- Operation Wallacea
- KHAYA Volunteer Projects
- CEA
- Global Experiences
- TEFL Heaven
- LoPair Au Pair China
- Projects Abroad
- Asia Internship Program
- China Internship Placements
- GoEco
- The Language House TEFL
- Center for Engaged Learning Abroad (CELA Belize)
- Cheetah Experience Ashia Western Cape
- DEC Camp
- Brazilian Experience
Need more guidance to make your travel plans a reality in 2018?
- Ask our Online Advisors to get hand-picked programs to match your interests
- Take our advice on How to Pick the Right Program Abroad for You
- Use MyGoAbroad to save and compare your favorite programs
- Check out our Top Rated Organizations & Programs of 2016
- Start your search from scratch and customize it as you go!
Are you an international educator that wants to make it on our 2018 list? Email [email protected] to start gathering more reviews now!
*Selection Process: Our Annual Top Rated Organizations and Programs are based on both quantity of reviews collected and overall ratings, as well as other measures of quality and participant satisfaction. All reviews counted were published in the 2017 calendar year.
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