Gap Year Programs in Asia

Spend 12 incredible weeks exploring Tamarindo, Rome, and Tokyo, three unforgettable destinations that showcase the world’s diversity. This immersive semester blends cultural discovery, new adventures, and light language learning with a supportive travel community. In Tamarindo, Costa Rica (Weeks 1–

Perfect your Japanese fluency, living in and exploring the timeless beauty of Kyoto. Spend a semester abroad honing your Japanese skills. Experience full immersion living with a warm host family, taking 20 hours per week of language classes, sharing meals, and learning the day-to-day rhythm of Japa

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio

Step into Tokyo, one of the world’s leading cities for finance, business, and innovation, and take your career to the next level with international internship experience. As a dynamic, highly liveable global hub, Tokyo offers the perfect environment to gain professional skills, real-world experience

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med

Unlike traditional study abroad or tourism experiences, Semester at Sea offers a unique opportunity for deep, authentic engagement with countries and cultures around the globe. It's more than just the adventure of a lifetime. It's a transformative experience that will give you a global perspective t

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real out

Combine adventure travel and volunteering in this awesome 8-week journey to three of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful destinations: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam! Take part in conservation and community-based projects, further enriched with traditional backpacking. From the bustling cities of Ban

Explore Southeast Asia on a 10-week journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam—where travel becomes transformation. Volunteer at ethical elephant sanctuaries, trek to remote mountain villages, explore ancient temples, and engage with communities through meaningful, culturally respectful e

A region accentuated by the colorful robes of Buddhist monks, the vivid greens of rice fields and jungle forests, and the cultural diversity of hill tribe communities—this is the ultimate Southeast Asia semester. Each country offers a unique cultural experience unto itself, and each faces the challe

Design a transformative gap year in China with Go Abroad China. For over two decades, we have expertly guided students to make informed career decisions while providing exciting, structured opportunities for exploration and growth. Our program allows you to build a personalized experience by combini

EA Ski and Snowboard Training are looking for eager skiers to join us in Japan! If you love the outdoors, travel, and have a passion for skiing; this is for you. What is the ski instructor internship course? This program has been designed to set you up as a qualified ski instructor within one wint

Take urgent action and immerse yourself in one of the world's most ecologically and culturally diverse places by joining a Raleigh Expedition to Borneo. If you're passionate about ecology and wildlife, eager for an unforgettable adventure, and interested in truly immersive travel, then Raleigh Born

Dream of living in China? Make it a reality with LoPair Au Pair China, an award-winning agency that connects you with a welcoming host family. Spend a transformative 3-12 months on a cultural adventure! You'll become a part of a Chinese family, assisting with educational childcare for up to 30 hour

The Au Pair Program in China gives young foreigners the chance to live with a local host family, assist with childcare or light housework, and experience Chinese culture firsthand. Benefits include: • Learn Mandarin through daily immersion in a native-speaking environment • Cultural exchange by joi

The Himalayas. Since time immemorial, these colossal peaks with their vast web of rugged, isolated valleys and distinct ethnic groups have drawn only the most intrepid travelers from distant lands. Through rural and urban homestays, a retreat in a Buddhist monastery, high mountain trekking, service

Taking a long break from school? Use this period to travel the world and boost your résumé with international experience. At That’s Mandarin, we have a range of programs you can incorporate into your gap year in China! No matter the Chinese language course you choose, we make sure it caters to your

LTL Language School is a perfect fit for students looking to improve their Mandarin quickly. Our comprehensive Chinese programs allow students maximum flexibility. You can study at LTL for a week up to a full year. We offer Mandarin language lessons in 10 cities across Asia including Beijing, Shang

Internship in Japan by SEKAIA Inc. (formerly ICC Consultants Inc.) Internship in Japan by SEKAIA is Japan’s leading internship program, connecting global talent with professional opportunities across the country. Based in the heart of Tokyo since 1988, we offer one of the largest networks of excit

This 70-day Southeast Asia Gap Program takes you beyond the traditional classroom while journeying to three beautiful and naturally diverse countries in Southeast Asia – Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. It is a unique combination of hands-on projects, education, and immersion into fascinating and an

Begin your international teaching journey with an accredited 120-hour TEFL course, designed for those ready to live and work in Japan. This internationally recognised programme equips you with the practical skills and confidence to teach English abroad, covering essential areas such as lesson plann

Whether you want to support vulnerable communities in developing countries, help conserve the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, or protect animals in the Amazon, Love Volunteers has a program for you. With over 200 projects in 40 countries there's something for everyone! For over 7 years Love Volu

Work abroad, learn a language, + lean into one of the most fascinating cultures in the world with JENZA South Korea. With a guaranteed backpacker job at the end of your four-week language school! Why Work South Korea Riding a global K-wave, South Korean culture may feel as familiar as your Samsung

Study Japanese in Tokyo and have an experience you will never forget! Learn the language in an authentic way, which is so much easier when you are surrounded by people who speak it. Soon, you will do more than speak fluently with the locals—you will feel like a local, too! On this trip, you will lea

Are you a student or young professional looking to enhance your career prospects through international work experience and hands-on learning? At Intern Abroad HQ, we help students and young professionals turn career aspirations into reality. We organize affordable internships in 20 destinations ac

Teach English in South Korea and gain valuable international experience while living in one of Asia’s most dynamic countries. This program places you in public schools across the country, where you’ll work alongside local teachers to support students in developing their English skills. Placements a

Training? Sorted. Support? Always. Flexibility? 100%. Drop the code GOABROAD12 at checkout to grab your exclusive 12% discount—yeah, for GoAbroad peeps only. Don’t sleep on this! Teach English in Thailand: More Than a Gap Year, It’s a Vibe. • Wanna make a real impact and live your best life abroa

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g

Live and teach in Cambodia—one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and affordable destinations—while jumpstarting your global career! This paid internship is perfect for students and recent grads looking for adventure, cultural immersion, and real-world experience. You’ll spend 12 months teaching Engl

Join a 10-month international volunteer program designed for those who want to gain real experience in global development while making a meaningful impact. The program combines training, fieldwork, and reflection, offering a unique opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. You will be

Spend a trimester, semester, or year studying abroad in Japan as a high school student, and live like a local while perfecting your Japanese language skills. You are matched with a carefully screened host family and attend a local high school for a full immersion experience abroad. Program at a gla

Spend the summer gaining valuable work experience on Absolute Internship's award-winning Singapore program. Stand out as a future job applicant by completing a full-time internship in the world's most technology-ready city. Work within your industry of choice with over 30 fields to choose from,

Fun living in Seoul! VOYAGE Korea offers the "Fun Living Seoul" program, which lasts 4 to 12 weeks. We ensure a smooth landing and adjustment in the country, arrange safe accommodation during your stay, and provide ongoing support and emergency assistance. Immerse yourself in Korean culture and hi

Lingoinn offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Chinese language while experiencing authentic local culture through our homestay programme. This is open to adult learners of all backgrounds and language levels, with no prior knowledge of Chinese required. You will stay at a teacher’

SeoulQuest is a six-week academic residency in Seoul for high school students seeking a rigorous pre-college experience. Korean Language: Students earn an official 6-credit transcript at Ewha University via an intensive 120-hour Korean course. This college-level curriculum condenses two years of hi

Empower, educate, and uplift — join our Women Empowerment Volunteer Program in India and be part of a powerful movement helping women gain confidence, skills, and independence. Through this meaningful volunteer experience with Volunteering Journeys, you’ll work closely with women and girls from unde

IGS has placed students in some of the world’s most exciting museums. Our internship placements typically fall into two categories: working on the floor or conducting research and marketing behind the scenes. Floor work includes assisting the docent in the setup and interpretation of current exh

Children in the Philippines begin learning English in grade one, so it is not surprising that most of the population can speak and understand English. The benefits of learning English from a native speaker are inspiring for young children. Volunteer for the Visayans places volunteers in rural ele

Choose our Intensive Course in Shanghai to immerse yourself deeply in Chinese learning and start speaking! This program also includes visa support. 1. Types of Groups: a) Small: Intensive 30 (6 lessons/day - 5 times/week) Intensive 20 (4 lessons/day - 5 times/week) Flexible 12 (4 lessons/day - 3 ti

Sign up for one of our Rustic Pathways Gap programs, which run for a semester. No matter what you join, we guarantee incredible opportunities for travel, service, non-cognitive skills development, and cultural immersion. Our gap programs integrate several options and activities. You can immerse you

CHI works with trusted overseas partners in Beijing and in Shanghai to carefully screen and interview host families. Once your application is received, our partners work hard to find a family that is the right fit for your personality. You will have a local coordinator that you can contact for suppo

Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thailand on a comprehensive 6-month journey. Experience an exceptional blend of cultural immersion, wildlife conservation, and community involvement. You'll start your journey by contributing to wildlife conservation in South Africa amidst

At Global Youth Au Pair in China, we are committed to promoting meaningful cultural exchange and personal growth through our au pair programs. We connect young people from around the world with friendly and carefully selected host families in China, offering a rich, immersive experience that builds

Interested in taking a gap year? Do it with an organization well regarded for its responsible travel and gap year travel opportunities - Oyster Worldwide. Whether you are taking a break before pursuing higher education or taking time off from university, we have the perfect opportunity for you! Our

The Au Pair Program is an educational and cultural exchange that includes child care. You can stay in China for 3 to 12 months, with placements in major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Chongqing. As a language tutor in a host family setting, you'll work with children, communicating in

Join Yohoo Au Pair China for a meaningful cultural exchange experience with a carefully screened Chinese host family. This program is designed for applicants aged 18-28 who want to live in China, study Mandarin, experience local family life, and share their language and culture with children in a wa

Discover China while living with a local family through our Au Pair Cultural Exchange Program. This program offers young people the opportunity to experience authentic Chinese life, improve cross-cultural communication skills, and create meaningful connections with host families. As an au pair, you

Teach English Overseas with Full Training, Visa Sponsorship & Career Support Looking for a stable, full-time job abroad where you can teach English, gain international experience, and receive professional training- even if you’ve never taught before? English 1 is recruiting entry-level English tea

Manara Fellows is a selective international leadership fellowship for ambitious young adults ages 18–22 preparing for the transition into adulthood. The experience begins with three live virtual leadership sessions before fellows travel in small cohorts of 6–8 for seven immersive days in Japan, Ital

A Gap Year Program in Nepal is a life-changing opportunity for students, graduates, and young professionals to step outside the classroom and immerse themselves in one of the world's most culturally rich and naturally diverse countries. Whether you want to volunteer, trek in the Himalayas, learn a

Take part in Asia Exchange's International Business Program (IBP) offered at Siam University. The undergraduate program, IBP, is taught in English. It admits Thai and international students. Exchange students at SU can choose from several options and take IBP courses that best suit their needs and i

Begin your journey towards studying in China with an International Foundation Program, designed to prepare international students for success at Chinese universities. Serving as a bridge between high school and university, these one-year preparatory programs help students strengthen their academic

Immerse yourself in life in Mae Sariang, Thailand, and make a real difference through a meaningful community-based internship. Working alongside the FutureSense Foundation, you’ll support local education initiatives and contribute to long-term, sustainable development. Choose your Impact Area and

The Connect and Thrive Regeneration Steward Intensive is a small-group experiential learning program exploring regenerative education, ecological literacy, systems thinking, mentorship, and community-based learning through both analytical and experiential pathways. Participants engage in outdoor ob

A 14-day immersive learning program set between the Himalayas and Karakoram — one of the world's most culturally rich and ecologically fragile regions. You will live with a Ladakhi host family in a traditional village, work alongside them, share meals, and learn about indigenous agriculture, natura

This is a professional training program where you can learn nail art techniques in Jeonju, South Korea. Gain hands-on experience with Korean beauty trends and practical skills, and take the next step toward becoming a global nail art professional. This project goes beyond basic nail art training, o

Make a lasting difference using your talents, skills, and passion. Join us in this gap year volunteering program in destinations like Kenya, Malawi, India, Nepal, and Thailand. This is the perfect opportunity to become a global citizen while immersing yourself in diverse cultures. At Africa & Asia

Are you ready to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world conservation? For more than two decades, Centre for Eco-Cultural Studies (CES) has been a trusted global leader in experiential education. We have proudly hosted international students, academic researchers, and university cohor

Seeking a pre-medical, pre-dental, pre-veterinary, or global and public health-related leadership opportunity abroad? Join the VAW Global Team Leader Fellowship. We are looking for Team Leaders and Chapter Presidents at your university or within your community! The Team Leader (TL) will have a numb

The Working Holiday Visa allows you to stay and work in Japan for up to one year. This experience places you in real jobs across Japan, giving you the chance to earn income while gaining international work exposure in one of the most unique and fast-paced countries on earth. Participants are placed

Our Japan summer program lets students experience the Land of the Rising Sun with hands-on courses in the heart of Osaka, plus day & weekend trips to Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, Yokohama, and Hiroshima! Students explore Japan from the feudal period to the modern day. Our instructors are experts in J

Spend your Working Holiday in Japan while experiencing everyday life in an authentic Japanese community. Our team helps you settle into life in Japan, providing accommodation, daily life setup, guidance on formal documents, and job search preparation. Typical part-time jobs include: • Cafés, re

Experience high altitudes, cultural immersion, and remote backpacking on this Himalayan adventure. You will explore jungle and alpine conditions while moving between locations, hiking, rock climbing, and exploring different areas within Nepal. Spending a minimum of 64 nights backcountry camping, you

Immerse yourself in a new language, intern abroad, or explore a different part of the world. CET’s gap programs offer the opportunity to join college-level courses overseas or online. Whether you're mastering Chinese in Beijing, volunteering while living with a host family in Siena, or creating art

Live together with K-pop Trainees Waiting for Their Debut! Asia Hope Camp Organization’s internship program provides high school and university students with firsthand experience working in an NGO. During the program, you will develop knowledge and skills in organizational management, research, pro

Pursue your 120-hour TEFL course for 5 months in Shanghai, where you will study the usual modules and lessons and train with an expert instructor. You will also gain actual hands-on one-to-one tutoring and in-class teaching experience to practice what you have learned. The course includes an inter