Au Pair Gap Year Programs


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25 Au Pair Gap Year Programs
Go Abroad China Ltd.
9.71
7
Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.
Weihai Chuanyue Cultural Exchange Co., Ltd.
9.58
19
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 joining in festivals, trying local foods, and experiencing daily traditions • Free accommodation and meals, plus a monthly stipend of 1,000–3,000 RMB • Travel opportunities during free time to explore different parts of China • Skill development in childcare, communication, and cross-cultural understanding This program is ideal for: • Students • Gap-year travelers • Anyone curious about life in China It’s a rewarding, immersive way to experience China while building real-life skills and global awareness.
See All 2 ProgramsLoPair Culture Exchange
8.19
16
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 hours a week. In return, you’ll receive: - Your own private room & meals - A monthly stipend - Flight reimbursement - Full agency support and more... This is your chance to explore China's majestic beauty, gain independence, and create lifelong memories—all while sharing your language and culture.
Volunteer World
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0
Volunteer in Laos and discover a country that truly stands out from its Southeast Asian neighbors. Almost untouched by mass tourism, you will find the most stunning nature, beautiful villages and traditional lifestyle like nowhere else. As a volunteer in Laos, you can give back to the community that gave you such a warm welcome. Teach English to children, build community centers or help out at a day care. Whether you will stay in the capital Vientiane or in a more rural area, the unique charm and slow pace of this country will win you over sooner or later.
Global Work & Travel
9.33
6
Canada has some of the best scenery in the world, hands down. With the dramatic change of seasons, it is truly a country with something for everyone. Global Work & Travel is here to ensure your working holiday in Canada is smooth, seamless, and, most importantly, unforgettable! We provide step-by-step guidance so you’ll arrive knowing that all those stressful essentials will be sorted out before leaving your home country. Our local team will provide a paid job opportunity, private airport transfer, and three nights of hotel accommodation upon arrival for the ultimate jet lag recovery. Plus, you’ll have a Canadian bank and tax account and a new mobile number. Enjoy a range of awesome, local Canadian experiences, such as a Vancouver sightseeing tour, a lookout pass, and so much more! By getting started, you’re not just signing up for a Working Holiday. You’re signing up for the best two years of your life!
See All 10 ProgramsWanderlust Exchange
9.09
66
Wanderlust Au Pair China Program integrates educational travel, Mandarin learning, childcare, and English tutoring for native or proficient English speakers 18 years and older. Embark on a transformative cultural journey with local host families while enjoying the benefits of our comprehensive package, including free Chinese language course, international insurance, cultural activities, flight stipend, etc. By offering 30 hours of live-in childcare and English teaching per week, you have an opportunity to foster meaningful relationships and start an extraordinary cultural odyssey - where language, tradition, modernity and adventure converge in the heart of China! Apply if you: - Are 18-28 years old - Have completed secondary school - Are proficient in English - Have no criminal record - Have a genuine interest and respect for Chinese culture - Have teaching/tutoring experience would be a plus
See All 2 ProgramsCultural Homestay International
10
2
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 support when you are a World Explorer in China. You don’t need to speak the local language – but if you are interested in signing up for Mandarin classes, we can help you do so at an affordable price. Beijing and Shanghai are two of the biggest and most exciting cities in the world. While Beijing offers more historical sights, Shanghai offers a coastal environment. Both cities have excellent public transportation. Our host families are extremely hospitable and are great guides. Chinese people are very proud of their culture and enjoy sharing it with foreigners. If you are thinking about getting certified to be an ESL teacher, World Explorers is for you. You will gain hands on experience teaching English in China, while making long-lasting friendships with your hosts.
Carla's Au Pairs
10
3
Ready to travel the world, gain independence, and experience life like never before? With Carla’s Au Pairs, you can live with a host family in the USA, Europe, or Asia while caring for children, exploring new cultures, and growing into your future self. Our program places young South Africans and Namibians in exciting countries such as the USA, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, Turkey, and China. You’ll receive a stipend, free accommodation, meals, and personal support from our experienced team - every step of the way. No experience abroad? No problem. We’re here to guide you with training, visa help, and prep. As proud IAPA members, we follow global standards to keep you safe and supported. This is more than a job. It’s a life-changing journey. Join our sisterhood of au pairs around the world and start writing your next chapter!
GlobalYouth Aupair In China
9.75
12
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 mutual understanding and global empathy. Our program gives participants the opportunity to fully engage with Chinese culture—learning Mandarin, exploring traditional customs, and becoming part of everyday life through festivals and family routines. We believe that living abroad is a life-changing experience. Through our programs, participants gain essential skills such as adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and problem-solving—tools that prepare them for success in both personal and professional settings. Au pairs are also an important part of their host families' educational journeys, especially in supporting children's language development. This two-way learning experience enriches both the lives of the au pairs and the children they help nurture.
Grabatour Travel
9.64
11
Are you looking for the perfect package to start your Working Holiday and find paid work in Australia? This program is the perfect way to start your Aussie Adventure. Spend a fun-filled week with action-packed activities while learning about life, travel, and career and establishing relationships with new gap buddies. It is an amazing eight-day group tour showing you the best of Melbourne and beyond. Then, it's time to get job hunting with the help of our expert jobs team in Sydney or Melbourne. We will help you find a job and set you up for a year of paid work. Get advice and assistance organizing interviews and arranging accommodation, support with one-on-one employment meetings, plus lifetime access to employer database and advice. What’s even better, you’ll meet new mates and make lasting friendships! To find full-time paid work in Australia, you must be between 18 and 30 and be eligible for a working holiday visa (subclass 417 or 462). We cater to a group of young individuals, so book with your friends! We'll help you plan and arrange any further travel or jobs after your first week.
China Xinhua Aupair
9
1
Explore China through travel, Mandarin learning, childcare, and English tutoring in a cultural homestay experience designed for young international participants. Live with a Chinese host family and immerse yourself in local life while providing up to 35 hours per week of live-in childcare and English instruction. In return, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture through weekly Mandarin classes, Xinhua-led cultural activities, and everyday moments shared with your host family. This program isn’t just about language and childcare—it’s about building connections. We’re passionate about cultural exchange, language learning, and the joy that comes from helping children grow while watching you grow alongside them. Discover the beauty of everyday life in China, create unforgettable memories, and maybe even find your second home.
See All 2 ProgramsJoinki
9.69
26
Become part of the Joinki Language Tutor Program in Italy. This opportunity offers you a whole new way of experiencing cultural exchange since you will be given the chance to be an active member of a true Italian community. You will serve as an English or German language tutor to an Italian family in the Trentino Region. In return for providing exposure to the language for around 15 hours per week, focused on conversation and some language tutoring, you will receive a range of program perks. These include lodging and full board with an Italian family (with three meals per day), an Italian language course, one excursion every two weeks, and more. Positions are available throughout the year, with a duration of one to three months. Eligibility includes: - Capability to teach and tutor, motivation, and openness to foreign cultures - More than 18 years old - English or German mother tongue or equivalent C2 level of English or German - High school students, teaching school students, and teachers who have a love for foreign languages
Korea GapYear 한국갭이어 KGY
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0
Join the Korea GapYear Au Pair Program. Work, travel, and experience the beauty of South Korea while living with a welcoming Korean host family! Why join? - Immerse yourself in Korean culture, language, and daily life. - Gain valuable childcare experience and personal growth. - Enjoy free accommodations, meals, Korean language classes, and exclusive program perks! - Explore vibrant cities, indulge in traditional cuisine, and create lifelong memories. Get our Early Bird Special! Apply before March 31st, 2025 to receive: - Free 3-day hostel stay in Seoul - 25% program discount Program benefits: - Live with a Korean host family - Free meals and private accommodation - 24/7 program support - Language classes and cultural experiences - Completion certificate to boost your resume Au pair requirements: - 18+ - High school graduate - Proficient in English - 6-month commitment
Yohoo International Culture Exchange
0
0
Embark on a cultural odyssey with our Au Pair to China Program. Immerse yourself in a Chinese family, fostering connections and understanding. Mandarin classes elevate your language skills, enhancing communication and cultural appreciation. Contribute meaningfully through tutoring and sharing cultural insights. Embrace diverse traditions in a dynamic exchange within your host family. Explore China's wonders through curated cultural activities. Each excursion, from ancient sites to modern landscapes, enriches your understanding of this dynamic nation. Prioritizing your well-being, we offer 24/7 support for a seamless transition. This transformative journey promises personal growth, lasting connections, and a profound appreciation for China's rich traditions. Become an integral part of a welcoming family and vibrant cultural landscape. Join us in creating memories that transcend borders.
The Cultural Exchange Project
9
4
Travel and still save money! Yes, this is possible when you work as an au pair. And if you’re in Germany, we have the perfect opportunity. Eligibility for this job includes previous experience, a natural fondness for children, and basic proficiency in German. Check out other criteria to see if you’re ready to take on this role. Being an au pair in Germany involves 30 hours of babysitting and other related tasks. Your responsibilities will be to the children you care for. In return, your host family will provide a private room, meals, and support. Plus, you get to stay in a beautiful location. Form a strong bond with the family and join in most of their activities. Exchange cultures with the people you meet along the way. Meet new acquaintances and build lifetime friendships with other au pairs. Create a social and professional network. All these make for an exciting and enriching experience in Germany!
A Guide to Au Pair Gap Year Programs Abroad
Prepare for Gap Year
Understand the Benefits
A gap year as an au pair offers a unique cultural exchange with numerous personal and professional advantages:
- Cultural immersion: Live with a local family, experiencing traditions and daily life firsthand.
- Language development: Improve language skills naturally through daily interactions.
- Relationship building: Form close bonds with your host family and their children.
- Cost-effective travel: Save on accommodation and meals, as they’re typically covered by the host family.
Things to Know
Before beginning your au pair journey, consider these key points to ensure a successful experience:
- Working hours: Most au pair roles require 20–30 hours of childcare per week, plus light household tasks.
- Living arrangements: Au pairs live with their host families, so expect a close-knit environment.
- Stipend: Host families provide a modest allowance; the amount varies by country.
- Language skills: Some programs require basic language skills, while others offer language classes.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
The au pair gap year is an opportunity to combine the love for travel with working in childcare in a foreign country. It entails living with a host family, caring for their children, and immersing oneself in the daily life and culture of the host country while gaining work experience and financial security.
Choose a destination that matches your choices and skills, and then look for a program provider to help you through the application process. Comply with the requirements and apply through the agency or program. Once you've been matched with a host family, complete the required visa and travel arrangements, and get ready for your au pair duties and cultural exchange experience.
Top destinations include France, which offers high compensation, reasonable work hours, and au pair visas for non-EU nationals. You can immerse yourself in a multicultural society and enjoy French culture, from craft brews to art. Also, New Zealand is ideal for those concerned about language barriers. Communication is easy and allows you to focus on cultural differences and build lasting connections with your host family.
Au pairs may or may not be subject to the 2-year rule, which applies to some J-1 visa categories in the U.S. Whether it applies depends on individual circumstances and the specific J-1 program. Au pairs should check their visa status and consult their program sponsor for guidance on this rule.
While au pairs have numerous advantages, their roles can have restrictions. Au pairs usually aren't allowed to work more than the agreed-upon hours, to work for multiple families without legal authorization, to violate the terms of their visa or contract, or to overstay their visa in the host nation.
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