Gap Year Programs During College

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 1–4), surf warm Pacific waves, join a sea turtle conservation project, hike rainforest trails to Rio Celeste, and explore the Arenal volcano region. In Rome, Italy (Weeks 5–8), step into history at the Colosseum and Vatican, roll pasta and make gelato with local chefs, and take a day trip to Pompeii. In Tokyo, Japan (Weeks 9–12), experience the city’s neon energy, stroll through serene shrines and gardens, try karaoke with friends, and ride the bullet train to Kyoto to explore temples and traditional tea houses. Throughout your journey, you’ll live in EF student residences, travel with your cohort, and join weekly cultural activities plus weekend or overnight excursions. With flights, housing, EF’s global support, and optional U.S. college credit all included, The Globetrotter is more than study abroad; it’s your chance to grow, connect, and experience the world like never before.

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 Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Experience New York City, the world’s financial and business capital, with a career-boosting international internship. NYC provides unparalleled opportunities to gain professional skills, global connections, and real-world experience across finance, business, marketing, PR, tech, NGOs, and more. Our program partners with 3,000+ leading companies and NGOs worldwide, offering internships tailored to your career goals. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or professional, you can build a standout résumé and gain experience in a highly competitive global job market. Participants receive mentorship, professional development tools, and access to local networking and cultural events. Join our 15,000+ alumni network and gain international work experience that elevates your career while living and working in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

GoEco offers more than 60 wildlife and animal conservation volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide! Our programs focus on the welfare and conservation of various species, both wildlife and domestic animals. We offer volunteer opportunities and internships at wildlife rescue centers, wildlife sanctuaries, wildlife reserves and animal shelters. All of our programs are vetted and are in line with our ethical values - only ethical and supervised interactions are allowed. A few examples of our offers include working with rescued sloths in Costa Rica, rehabilitating vervet monkeys in Malawi, observing and collecting data on Africa's Big Five species and doing survey dives with whale sharks in Mozambique, just to name a few.

In three of the world's most beautiful countries—Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru—Maximo Nivel offers its unique Native Spanish Program. Join our "Country Jumper" program and begin your GAP Year in one of our countries and then jump to another and another. Experience different aspects of each country's culture and Spanish dialect. Your program and curriculum follow you as you study across 2, 3 or all 4 of our institutes. EXAMPLE ITINERARY: Start your studies at our institute in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica (on the beach!), then travel to our institute in the beautiful pueblo of Antigua, Guatemala, and then move your program to our institute in historic Cusco, Peru. From Peru, join us again in Costa Rica at our institute in the capital city of San Jose. Study, trek, tour, and eat your way through Latin America—it's a great experience! We recommend at least 3 weeks for a Country Jumper program.

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 outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

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 to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Fall 2026: European, African, South American, and Asian Adventure Embark: September 9, IJmuiden, The Netherlands Disembark: Dec 22, Bangkok, Thailand Itinerary: Portugal, Morocco, Brazil, St. Helena, South Africa, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Hong Kong Spring 2027: Asia, Africa, and Europe Embark: Jan 5, Bangkok, Thailand Disembark: Apr 20, Bremerhaven, Germany Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, India, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Morocco, Scotland

Visit two of South America’s most iconic countries—Peru and Ecuador—and discover the lost lands of the Incas! Start your adventure in South America with intensive Spanish lessons, then step up the adventure with an epic trek across the Andes to Machu Picchu on the remote Salkantay route—over icy mountain passes and through mysterious cloud forests to the remains of a fallen civilization. Then, it's time to explore Ecuador's natural beauty. From surfing and whitewater rafting to hiking and exploring volcanoes, Ecuador has it all! For your second project, you will spend three weeks deep in the Ecuadorian rainforest and complete vital conservation work. Get face-to-face and hand-to-paw with rainforest inhabitants while volunteering at a rescue center for wild animals. And learn the secrets of life in the rainforest directly from an Indigenous community while staying at an eco-lodge. Finish your epic journey with a visit to one of the most famous national parks on Earth, the Galapagos Islands! Hike, sail, and snorkel your way around the islands made famous by Charles Darwin. You will then return to Quito for the final trek to the center of the world!

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

Venture through Guatemala and Costa Rica, exploring lush tropical rainforests, towering volcanoes, steep-sided mountains, and extended coastlines. Embrace the spirit of "pura vida" and learn from the unique crossover of individuals who call these nations home. Living alongside Indigenous communities and their contemporaries, explore opportunities to delve into social justice, sustainability, and the influence of colonization. From the Sierra Madre mountains of interior Guatemala to the sea turtle havens on the coast, from the tranquility and splendor of Lago Atitlán and its surrounding volcanoes to the breathtaking coral reefs offshore, Carpe Diem Education explores the merging complexities of socio-political realities with the hope of a more sustainable future. Cap your new knowledge with improved Spanish, honed during your homestay experience, and outdoor skills learned from the many treks, hikes, and adventure activities available in the region.

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 combining key elements: a professional internship to gain hands-on skills, immersive Mandarin language study at top universities, meaningful volunteering in Beijing, and cultural discovery through our Study & Tour option. We ensure a seamless and supported adventure with our all-inclusive package starting at $1,980. This covers guaranteed program placement, visa application support, accommodation arrangements, airport pickup and orientation, and 24/7 local assistance. Every package is fully customizable to align with your specific goals, timeline, and budget. Take the next step in your personal and professional journey with a gap year that builds your resume, expands your worldview, and connects you to a lifelong global network.

Joining a Raleigh Costa Rica Expedition is a truly unique experience that allows you to take part in different projects, equip yourself with new skills, create lasting change with the communities we work with and take urgent action on environmental issues. Work with local initiatives and organisations to help preserve Costa Rica's natural resources, as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. You will improve access to national parks by working with park rangers. On the Community project you will work with local indigenous communities to improve access to education for some of Costa Rica’s most marginalised children by improving educational infrastructure. Lastly, build your skills on the adventure leadership trek. Challenge yourself on trek and help lead your team through a variety of stunning routes.

Ever thought of traveling to Uganda? It’s a peaceful, vibrant country known for its breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming people. Ugandans are famous for their hospitality and love collaborating with international volunteers. Our volunteers are resourceful and community-driven self-starters aged 18-65 working year-round in integrated community development programs, supporting schools, organic farms, health centers, and women's groups. All placements begin on the 1st and 15th of every month, lasting 2 to 12 weeks. Volunteers bring encouragement, creativity, and compassion to our communities through various impactful activities: -Organizing arts, crafts, and sports in primary schools -Supporting meal preparations, daily chores, and child care at boarding schools -Mentoring and training underprivileged aspiring athletes -Clearing land and planting food crops and trees -Assisting in pharmacies and laboratories at rural clinics -Mentoring young mothers in child care, nutrition, breastfeeding, and family planning -Assisting in maternity hospitals -Helping rural communities develop small business skills Visit our website for more information and apply today to make a difference!

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.

The International School is an integral part of the University of Haifa. As a student at the International School, you will be joining students from all over the world who have come to Israel to enhance their education. You will also be studying and living with Israeli students. The International School offers Honors Programs for highly motivated students in Psychology and Peace and Conflict Studies as well as track programs specializing in Global Law, and Arabic Language and Culture. All of the courses in the International School are taught in English and are fully accredited. Students who are proficient in Hebrew are welcome to take courses in all other departments of the university. The professors and lecturers teaching in the International School are members of the university faculty who have distinguished careers in their respective fields. The academic Internship Program features credit-bearing work-study experiences related to the academic or vocational interests of the student. Internships are mostly focused in the fields of social services, health services, social sciences, and humanities.

The Mente Argentina Ultra Intensive Spanish Program is designed for participants to learn Spanish quickly while experiencing the enigmatic city of Buenos Aires. Spanish classes are taught in an innovative and creative way by integrating class coursework with cultural activities and excursions. Any level of Spanish speaker, beginner, intermediate, or advanced, is welcome to participate in this amazing program. Over 500 million people in the world speak Spanish as their native language or second language. Now is the time to become a Spanish speaker, too! It is helpful in many fields and shines on a resume. Looking for a more specific intensive Spanish course in Buenos Aires? Mente Argentina offers the following courses: - Legal Language and Terminology - Medical Language and Terminology - Spanish Literature - Advanced Conversation - Advanced Composition - Latin American History

Work, live, and play in Canada's tourism playgrounds. We work with hundreds of hotels, summer and winter resorts, restaurants, activity providers, retail outlets, and other hospitality and tourism businesses throughout the country. Get a job and accommodation before you depart and help with your visas, insurance, and travel plans. Turn up sorted and work for a season or longer. We have jobs in guest services, food and beverage, kitchen, back of the house, and resort operations. We even have jobs for participants who specialize in construction and aesthetics. Start dates are available all year round, although you need to allow 10–14 weeks for visa processing depending on the time of the year and country of origin. If you’re interested in joining us or would like to stay updated with securing a resort job in Canada, please feel free to get in touch or visit our website for more info. Visas are now open to all IEC partner countries including the UK, Australia, NZ, Europe, Japan, and others. Learn more about this on our website. Let your dream work in Canada become a reality today! Contact us now!

Do you have a passion for travel, adventure, and skiing? Do you want to earn internationally recognized qualifications and travel the world with the coolest job on the planet? Become a ski instructor in Canada with EA Ski and Snowboard Training this winter and fast-track your career in the ski industry! On a ski instructor internship you'll train, qualify and work as a ski instructor - all in one season. EA Ski and Snowboard Training guarantee a paid job offer once their interns have passed their exams and are qualified ski instructors. Apply today to see if you qualify! Choose from 7 world-class ski resorts in Canada to train and work at this winter. You'll train with the best, gain internationally recognized instructor qualifications, and get the best work experience for your CV. You'll gain instructor qualifications recognized by the International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA) - the world body for professional ski instructors. This means you will be able to work at other world-class ski resorts across the globe. Inquire to get in touch with our team and find out more about this great opportunity!

The Glacier Bay Semester offers an unparalleled opportunity for young people aged 18-24 to develop as leaders, community members, and global citizens. Based at our twin campuses, students will explore a mossy old-growth forest, paddle through icy fjords, and climb the rugged alpine summits of Glacier Bay National Park and the Tongass National Forest. The program is built around three central pillars: academic work in the liberal arts and sciences, service labor performed in support of the campus and community, and democratic self-governance. Close-knit community life and wilderness exploration round out the experience. Join us and immerse yourself in the communities and wildlands of Southeast Alaska, home to tidewater glaciers, alpine meadows, humpback whales, and brown bears. All students must be legally permitted to reside in the United States for the entire duration of the program. This means that DACA recipients are eligible for this program. Unfortunately, Tidelines cannot currently sponsor visas for international students.

Volunteer at the Galápagos National Park and get the chance to assist at the tortoise breeding center. You will be a member of the research and zookeeping staff. Take responsibility for taking care of and measuring the shells of tortoises for their growth charts, as well as informing tourists of rules and regulations, and other necessary tasks at the center, depending on individual skillset. Requirements for this program are: - Basic to intermediate level of Spanish - A genuine passion for animal conservation - An ability to openly communicate rules and regulations to tourists and follow instructions - Ability to work independently as well as in a team - Physical ability to work outdoors with potentially high allergens, sun, and temperature exposure IOI encourages all volunteers to stay as long as possible to maximize local and personal benefits. We encourage longer commitments by heavily discounting each additional week. The minimum stay is two weeks, with a maximum stay of three months. All volunteers must arrive in Isabela on Mondays.