Gap Year Programs During High School

Experience Medellin, Colombia’s most innovative city, through an international internship designed to advance your career. This program combines hands-on professional experience, global networking, and cultural immersion, giving students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals the skills and connections to stand out in a competitive global job market. Internships are available across a wide range of sectors, including business, marketing, finance, PR, technology, entrepreneurship, and NGOs, with placements tailored to your career goals. By partnering with 3,000+ top companies and organizations, we ensure you gain meaningful experience that enhances your résumé and prepares you for future opportunities. Beyond the internship, you’ll benefit from mentorship, development workshops, and networking events, allowing you to grow both personally and professionally while living in Medellin. Whether you are exploring your career path, seeking a gap year opportunity, or looking to advance your professional journey, our Medellin program provides the perfect balance of career growth, international experience, and cultural discovery in one of Latin America’s most exciting cities.

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.

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.

Unlock fluency and cultural immersion in Bavaria's vibrant capital. Our accredited EF Munich campus, nestled in the trendy Lehel district, offers dynamic German courses for all levels. Perfect your language skills and study academic subjects in your areas of interest, returning home with language credentials, friends from around the world, and memories to last a lifetime. True fluency through immersion - Spend 2, 3, or 4 academic terms (6–11 months), gaining language and cultural fluency, learning from local experiences, and peers from over 100 nations. EF Munich - Housed in a recently renovated building, the school features bright, air-conditioned classrooms, a sunny courtyard, and communal lounges perfect for socializing after class. An engaging cultural programme—led by EF Activity Managers—rounds out learning with experiences like town tours, trips to Munich’s world-class museums, beer gardens, and even the Bavarian Alps. Transform your gap year through language, culture, and confidence. Earn transferable college credit through our partner in education, The University of Montana.

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.

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.

Based at a PADI Platinum dive center on the beautiful Pacific coast of Costa Rica, this 4 or 10-week course trains you as a professional PADI Divemaster. Alongside your professional qualifications, you will gain skills and knowledge performing marine science research using underwater survey and data collection techniques. Your work contributes to the upkeep of scientific records, which help monitor the health of our oceans. You will emerge from the course with hands-on experience in marine research to back up your top-level scuba certifications.

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. Spring 2025: Closed Fall 2025: September 25 - December 04

Are you looking for meaningful activities to fill the all-too-important gap year? Join our program at Go Abroad China, we have solid experience in helping students make informed decisions and research about the next step in their career, as well as providing exciting opportunities for them to explore! We support international candidates seeking valuable and practical ways to spend a gap year by providing a selection of the following programs: 1) Internships in China 2) Mandarin language study 3) Volunteering in Beijing 4) Study & Tour program Our programs have a fee starting at $1,980 USD. This investment covers our all-inclusive support package to ensure a seamless experience: -Guaranteed Program Placement -Visa Application Support -Accommodation Arrangements -Airport Pickup & Orientation -24/7 Local Support & Assistance All packages are customizable to fit your specific needs and budget. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Embark on an unforgettable three-week cultural immersion in Thailand, where ancient temples meet bustling markets and serene beaches beckon. This program is designed for young travelers (ages 14-17) seeking a transformative experience that will ignite their curiosity and leave them with a profound appreciation for Thai culture. Imagine exploring the ruins of Angkor Wat, volunteering at an elephant sanctuary, and learning the art of Thai cooking. This is your chance to delve into Thailand's vibrant tapestry, connect with locals, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Push your boundaries with exciting activities like rock climbing or whitewater rafting (depending on the program itinerary). Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, there's something for everyone in Thailand. Ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery in the Land of Smiles? Reach out to learn more!

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!

Discover the ultimate gap year experience in Buenos Aires with Mente Argentina, the largest and most recognized local organization offering a spectrum of customizable programs. Whether you're looking to improve your Spanish, engage in meaningful volunteer work, gain professional experience through internships, or immerse yourself in Argentine culture through our short courses, we tailor each gap year to your personal aspirations. Tailored Gap Year Adventures: Mente Argentina understands that everyone’s gap year dream is different. That's why we offer the flexibility to combine various programs based on how long you wish to stay. From a few weeks to an entire year, design a gap year that fits your schedule and fulfills your personal and academic goals. Why Choose Buenos Aires with Mente Argentina? Buenos Aires is not just a city but a canvas for your adventures. With Mente Argentina, you embark on a gap year that promises not only learning and personal growth but also an unforgettable cultural immersion. Join us to experience a city famed for its vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and warm, welcoming culture. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and transformed.

Come and join the leading Spanish-language immersion program in Mexico! Iguana Abroad offers you the chance to live in one of the best locations in Mexico and learn Spanish in a fast, authentic, and immersive way. Whether you are a complete beginner or you already speak advanced Spanish, our personalized courses will bring you to the next level! Our trips include 30+ hours of Spanish tuition, a unique program of cultural immersion, and a series of excursions to diverse and exciting locations around Mexico. Iguana Abroad will take care of all the details: Spanish lessons, excursions, activities, and much, much more! Get in touch today to find out more!

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, Shanghai, Taipei, Singapore, and the jewel in the LTL crown, Chengde, home of our incredible immersion program. We have 1-on-1 and group classes available and accommodation with carefully selected Chinese host families is encouraged to maximize each participant's exposure to the language and culture. Here at LTL, we have welcomed thousands of students since 2007 and are one of Asia's most trusted and premier language schools.

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 learning, and independent study, Dragons Himalaya students explore this remarkable region and its people, encountering ancient spiritual traditions with deep roots in a mystical land. Our Himalayan Gap Year Semester is based in the Kathmandu Valley, an ancient crossroads and melting pot of Himalayan peoples. While living with host families and studying the Nepali language, students meet with local scholars and activists and learn about Nepal’s history, politics, and culture while pursuing a wide range of independent study and learning service projects. College Credit is optional for an additional fee.

Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportunity to live the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle for all explorers. Turtle Conservation Project – Embark on a journey to protect sea turtles. Contribute to conservation through beach cleanups, hatchery construction & nest monitoring. Learn to surf in your free time. Pura Vida Service – Create authentic bonds with local communities and contribute to meaningful service projects. Program highlights include zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and hot springs. Surf and Service – Take in breathtaking sunsets and the blue waters during a week of surf, service, and community support. Spring Break Surf and Service – The Spring Break version of our popular Surf and Service program! Young Explorers – The perfect intro for young adventurers! Journey from the mountains to the beaches and participate in impactful service projects.

World Class Programs offers high school students the opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy. Our summer program is designed for teens from all academic backgrounds who are excited about immersing themselves in Italian culture and lifestyle. This pre-college program offers various course study options, including Art History, Fine Arts, Philosophy, Photography, Architecture, Italian language, and Tuscan Cuisine. Students can choose a major course for daily focus (Monday to Friday) in the mornings for three hours. Then, they attend elective classes, each lasting two hours, three times a week in the afternoons. On weekends, they go on day trips around Italy to explore cultural differences from city to city. Locations vary yearly; previous participants have visited Cinque Terre, Siena, Pisa, and Venice!

Live like a local whilst getting paid on a Working Holiday in Ireland. Explore the Emerald Isle and experience an authentic Irish pub crawl. We’ll even throw in a visit to the iconic Guinness storehouse. Plus, the rest of Europe is on your doorstep! Global Work & Travel will score you job opportunities with fun local businesses across a range of companies. If your job doesn’t already come with accommodation, our team can help you find a perfect place to live. We’ll also get you set up with the basics including your visa, Irish bank account, mobile number, and PPS number so you can jet off to Ireland knowing everything is taken care of. Our Working Holiday in Ireland is designed to get you to be more than a tourist. Spend your time truly immersing yourself and become a local in no time!

Please only submit an inquiry if you are eligible to obtain a Working Holiday Visa. It is available to citizens of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Uruguay, who are between 18 and 30 years old! Canadians can also participate through a Youth Mobility Visa, obtainable for those aged 18 to 35. Berlin is a bustling metropolis, a hotspot for artists, and a magnet for people from all over the world. Our Working Holiday program is designed to help you gain a foothold in this exciting city, navigate the often-complex bureaucratic system, and even land a job. Maximize your year-long working holiday with our complete support package, which includes: * 30 nights in a high-standard studio apartment * Assistance with your residence registration * English and German-speaking online support team * Farm Stay at no extra cost, including free accommodation and meals * Access to online resources with all the information you need to organize your stay, such as choosing insurance, applying for a visa, packing list, job hunting, preparing your German CV, tips for successful job interviews, booking a German language course, and more!

Experience an unforgettable summer in Switzerland with BHMS in Lucerne—where learning meets adventure. Designed for students aged 16 to 20, the BHMS Summer Camp combines education, culture, and fun in one of Europe’s most inspiring destinations. Choose from exciting one-week programs in Culinary Foundations, Hospitality & Business Innovation, or English and German Language Immersion. Mornings are filled with interactive workshops led by industry professionals, while afternoons bring adventures such as lake cruises, mountain excursions, and cultural visits to Swiss landmarks. Live and study in the heart of Lucerne with students from around the world, enjoy safe and comfortable accommodation, and immerse yourself in Swiss culture. Many participants later continue their academic journey at BHMS, with summer camp fees credited toward future tuition. Discover your passion, build lifelong friendships, and take the first step toward your global career with BHMS this summer.