Announcing GoAbroad’s Top Rated Providers of 2023

Is meaningful travel at the top of your 2024 bucket list? You’re in the right place! Traveling abroad in any capacity is a huge decision—and often, a huge investment as well. That’s why being well prepared and doing the proper research is a must before you book that plane ticket.

If you’re ready to make moves this year (or even if you’re looking ahead to 2025!), our Top Rated Providers of 2023 is a great place to start. You’ll get the low down on the top performing organizations across study abroad, internships, volunteering, TEFL, language schools, gap year, teach abroad, and high school programs.

And the best part? They were all chosen by real world program alumni! Who could possibly be better to trust with travel advice than your fellow wanderlusters?

Top Rated Providers of 2023

Reading travel program reviews is one of the most simple but effective ways to know which program is the right one for you. You’ll get a firsthand account of what to expect in terms of activities, outcomes, accommodations, atmosphere, and so much more.

Below you’ll find some of the best reviews from each of our Top Rated Organizations of 2023. Although it’s just a snapshot, these might provide the inspo you needed to dig deeper and find the right program for you!

Top Rated Study Abroad Providers of 2023

1. American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS)

“My time in Spain fostered so much personal growth and allowed me to live a life unlike one I have ever experienced. I met wonderful people, experienced a beautiful culture, and made indescribable memories that I will never forget.” - Aoi Tischer, AIFS Study Abroad in Barcelona, UAB: Semester or Year Alumni

2. University Studies Abroad Consortium

“...All of the people that did the program became lifelong friends that I still speak to very often. All of the professors and staff were truly there for me and helped me whenever any obstacle came up. Lastly, my advisor and the USAC staff always answered my questions promptly and to the best of their abilities.” - Ainsley Moore, USAC Spain: Bilbao/Getxo - International Business & Spanish Alumni

3. Loop Abroad

“This program was a 10/10 experience. Culture, food and animals all in one. It was an amazing trip and I wouldn't trade it for the world. These past three weeks have built my character further. All the staff made my experience a blast.” - Caroline Washington, Thailand Marine Bonus Week Alumni

Top Rated Internship Providers of 2023

1. Intern Abroad HQ

“I really enjoyed being immersed in a completely different culture and figuring it out with the other interns… The staff were excellent and helped with any questions we had. The guidance and support received from Intern Abroad HQ was second to none. Any questions or concerns I had were answered in a timely manner.” - Rachel McDermott, Most Affordable Internships in Tanzania | Intern Abroad HQ Alumni

2. VACorps

“From exploring new environments to going on exhilarating adventures, nothing compares to the amazing community of people who welcomed us with open arms. Despite being in a foreign country, the VACorps staff… made me and other interns feel at home, safe, and protected. VaCorps staff supported us from the very beginning when we arrived at the airport and on our first internship day to the very end.” - Laila Wheeler, VACorps Professional Internship Program Alumni

3. Beyond Academy

“Just as the name implies, Beyond Academy will go above and beyond to make your internship experience one of the best moments you could experience… The Beyond Community will ensure that starting an internship in a foreign place is a smooth process and that finding support is readily accessible.” - Youngju Kim, Seoul Internships with Beyond Academy Alumni

Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Providers of 2023

1. International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

“The local team are all very kind and helpful, whenever I called or texted they would always respond quickly. This trip did impact me a lot and I hope to do something like this again in the future. IVHQ does a wonderful job in making your volunteering experience impactful, yet safe and comfortable.” - Larry Hung, Volunteer in Childcare in Nepal Alumni

2. MAXIMO NIVEL

“The people from Maximo are super nice and helpful, no matter my questions or problems. I never felt alone or as a burden. The project was much fun and after a day of work you could see your impact… Long story short: Everybody I met helped me make this experience the best it can be.” - Jonas Hillert, Volunteer Adventure—2 weeks in Costa Rica Alumni

3. GVI

“I was supported from start to finish by the amazing GVI Nepal team who made sure that I was able to maximise my impact teaching in the schools and in other areas of the community. My two months in Nepal were wonderful and I wish I could do it all over again!” - Katie McGhee, Volunteer Teaching in Nepal Alumni

Top Rated TEFL Certification Providers of 2023

1. International TEFL Academy

“My instructor always gave very useful feedback on my assignments and that told me that she cared about me as a student to give both positive and helpful tips to make my lessons better. She challenged us to think differently, which I feel like constitutes a great teacher in EFL.” - Melissa Chamberlain, Award Winning TEFL Courses for Teaching English Abroad Alumni

2. Premier TEFL

“I like the course because it has a good amount of information to support with the questions and assessments, the team at PremierTefl provide great feedback for the assessments and communication through emails... I'll recommend the course to other people I know to help support with their future plans.” - Elmer, Best-Reviewed 180-Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma Course Alumni

3. The TEFL Academy

“Well-designed course materials enabled me to understand course contents quickly and interactive quizzes engaged my critical thinking. Content was not too difficult, making it learner friendly for most age groups… Plenty of activities were involved, which involved communication and interaction amongst students... The best investment for all future English teachers!” - Tania Ku, Combined Level 5 TEFL Course Abroad Alumni

Top Rated Language Schools of 2023

1. MAXIMO NIVEL

“The support of Maximo Nivel which began before arriving in Costa Rica was consistently helpful and made me feel safe all the time. My host family has been super welcoming and I definitely recommend to stay at a host family for being able to practice the foreign language as much as possible. In the future, I will take part at a language course of Maximo Nivel again.” - Matthias Theisen, Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America Alumni

2. Iguana Abroad

“The program is structured very thoughtfully, balancing coursework with fun weekly activities like cooking + ceramics classes - plus weekend excursions to nearby archeological sites, pueblos, and more. It's enough to keep you busy + engaged, but not so much where it feels overwhelming - there is still plenty of free time to use at your discretion...” - Annie Melbert, Spanish Cultural Immersion and Adventure in Mexico Alumni

3. LTL Language School

“The staff (Riona, Alin, et al.) at LTL Taipei are friendly, well-organized, and student-first. being flexible in accommodating changes to student schedules and course preferences. They also organize plenty of social activities… Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend learning Mandarin in Taipei with LTL. For the price of their program, you get a lot more than just the Mandarin course and it’s absolutely worth it.” - Alex Cheney, LTL Language School || Learn Chinese (11 Cities) Alumni

Top Rated Gap Year Providers of 2023

1. Pacific Discovery

“An amazing journey that fully immerses you into the culture and off the grid for an epic experience of adventure, friends, and learning both about the world and yourself. You get afforded the time to just live and be a human. Freedom to explore the world and yourself in a supportive, loving group. It will change your life.” - Maddie Jo Robbins, Costa Rica Mid Teen Summer Program | Pacific Discovery Alumni

2. Warriors Academy

“Warriors academy is an amazing opportunity for young adults to grow, improve and become the best versions of themselves. Throughout my year at this gap year program I have made friends that will last a lifetime, done stuff that I would have never dreamt of in the past and the memories I'll have when I leave will never be forgotten.” - Noah Badenhorst, Warriors Gap Year Experiences Alumni

3. Gapforce

“... For someone who wants to gain proper travelling experience and exposure to an entirely different way of life whilst simultaneously staying safe, with the guarantee of making friends and lifelong memories, I really can’t recommend this trip enough… Overall, the trip is the perfect springboard for those looking to gain confidence and experience proper backpacking travel…” - Beth Roberts, Southeast Asia Explorer with Gapforce Alumni

Top Rated Teach Abroad Providers of 2023

1. Gotoco

“From cultural immersion, to improving our teaching skills and implementing them into a variety of schools, and to many more great experiences, this programme provided amazing opportunities. I would highly recommend. With the funding provided it means that this is very accessible.” - Luca Rayment Gomez, Free Short-Stay TEFL Placement in 10 Countries Alumni

2. TravelGrad

“TravelGrad have been amazing all throughout the whole process of moving to Vietnam and continue to support me now 3 months in, they are the most trustworthy company you will find!... The cost of living here is very low so you can live very comfortably and have a very good social life.” - Yasmin, Vietnam TEFL (Hanoi City) Alumni

3. Teaching Assistant Program in France

“The tapif program has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world! My teachers and students were enthusiastic to have me, and I found daily joy in sharing my culture… I would highly recommend this program to everyone in any occupation just wanting a new experience!” - Eileen Burner, English Language Teaching Assistant in France Alumni

Top Rated High School Abroad Providers of 2023

1. Arcos Journeys Abroad

“This experience really opened my daughter's eyes to different ways of life… The immersive inclusion in the day to day and historical culture of Oaxaca made the trip such a unique experience. The program had just the right amount of structure and an amazing on-location program director… It is a wonderful program for your teen!” - Carley Hughes, Spanish Language & Mexican Culture Alumni

2. Travel For Teens

“From the moment I arrived in Prague, I could tell that I was in good hands. The itinerary was packed with amazing experiences that I don't think I could have gotten anywhere else. It was clear that Travel for Teens had done their research and put together a trip that was both unique and exciting… Our counselors were fantastic - knowledgeable, friendly, and always there to answer our questions.” - Lauren Sowers, TFT for Older Teens: Prague, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia Alumni

3. The Experiment in International Living

“There was so much I got to do in the country within a short period of time… The leaders and teachers were also a great part of the experience they were very kind and understanding people. They also did not feel like authority and were relaxed, friendly and open minded people. They also made sure were were doing fine mentally and physically.” - Charity A, The Experiment: Japan: Anime & Manga Alumni

Top Rated Notable Mentions

ISA (International Studies Abroad)

• “Aside from the educational part of the trip, ISA did a great job of planning excursions and activities… ensuring we had good host families (I loved my host mom), lived in safe areas, and most of all made sure we connected with the students who were also on the trip (along with the locals).” - Alyse Wierzbicki, ISA Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina Alumni

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

• “The whole experience was great and everyone from the staff to the Wilson family are second to none. Other volunteers are helpful and everyone works together to achieve one common goal.” - James Gendron, Zimbabwe - African Wildlife Orphanage Alumni

John Cabot University

• “John Cabot University has been one of the best experiences of my life… it offers a very unique international environment in which to create long-lasting relationships and have memorable experiences… The well-prepared and wonderful professors have all fostered my critical thinking and openness towards the world.” - Andrew Kaplan, Study Abroad in Rome at John Cabot University Alumni

Arcos Learning Abroad

• “My Arcos director was amazing! She was always available when we needed her. She made sure all activities ran smoothly and checked in on us regularly to make sure our semester abroad was going the way we wanted it to. She made the program so much fun!” - Savannah Yost, Arcos Learning Abroad in Granada, Spain Alumni

Volunteer Encounter

• “Unforgettable memories. Experiences that were unique and exciting. I can’t say enough good things about the staff at Antelope Park. They truly go out of their way to make the experience so special. The park is beautiful and is clearly loved by all who work and visit. ” - Darryl Cherry, Volunteer with Horses, Antelope Park Alumni

Philotimo Med Abroad

• “My experience in Larissa with Philotimo was incredible! The projects are amazing, the local team/coordinators are so extremely kind and helpful, and there are tons of activities planned each week that you can opt-in to experience. It made my first time traveling internationally much less anxious.” - Ashley Jones, Medical Shadowing in Larisa, Greece Alumni

The Tarzan Way

• “The organization is well-run and the staff are incredibly supportive and helpful. If you're looking for a great volunteering opportunity, look no further than TTW!” - Samuel Smith, Volunteer in Jaipur, India Alumni

International Medical Aid (IMA)

• “This experience would not have been what it was without the amazing hospitality and kindness of the IMA staff who made me feel like I was at home even being 8000 miles away.” - Jenna Harrington, Pre-Med/Health Fellowships | IMA Alumni

International TEFL and TESOL Training

• “The program was straightforward, easy to follow, and provided a lot of useful teaching strategies… The course includes a plethora of teaching tips and useful examples to use in the classroom…” - Daylee, International TEFL and TESOL Training - Online Courses Alumni

Global Work & Travel

• “They helped with the visa and flights and every time I had a question or concerns they called and helped me. Had such a great experience which is why I'm still here 4 years later.” - Scott Hamber, Working Holiday Australia Alumni

Buenos Aires TEFL Institute

• “I gained much more than a TEFL Certificate. I gained the confidence I will need to be an effective English Teacher. To top it off, they lined me up with my first teaching job…” - Jack Miller, TEFL Course with Job Placement in Buenos Aires Alumni

World Class Programs

• “This trip has given me lifetime friends, supportive staff, and so much meaningful experience that will continue to help me in college and beyond… All the staff is so available and ready to help in any situation” - Ruby Beckerman, Florence, Italy Summer Cultural Experience Alumni

Centro MundoLengua

• “The cultural aspect of the trip was very well planned and organized. The training was and experience that has completely changed my vision when I teach, not only for the higher levels, but especially for my lower levels.” - Brenda De Leon, AP® Spanish Summer Institutes in Seville Alumni

EF Gap Year

• “I loved that you never feel alone, whether that be from the connections you make, your trip leaders, or the behind the scenes support staff EF has for you… I loved the perfect balance of independence and planned itineraries.” - Morgan Tisdale, EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple Destinations Alumni

Hopscotch Travel

• “Going through Hopscotch was the best thing ever. Everything was so easy, so smooth. They really help with your applications and interview, giving you tips and helping with your visa. Everyone has been really friendly.” - Stephanie Lincoln, Au Pair in Italy - Travel, Work and Earn Alumni

Next steps to achieving your travel goals in 2024

• Use MyGoAbroad to find, save, and compare programs (for free!)
• Ask our Online Advisor to match you with programs that fit your interests—you’ll get recommendations in less than 24 hours!
• Read tips on How to Pick the Right Program Abroad for You
• Get ideas on Questions to Ask Your Study Abroad Advisor
• Browse our Travel Article Directory or sign up for our Newsletter to stay motivated and inspired!

Are you an international educator who wants to make it on our 2023 top rated list? Contact us to start gathering more reviews now!

*Selection Process: Our Annual Top Rated Providers 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 2023 calendar year.