Gap Year Programs in France

Yes! France offers a wide range of opportunities for gap year experiences, including language immersion, internships, volunteer projects, and more. It's a great way to explore the country, learn about its culture, and enhance your skills.

The ideal destination for a gap year in France depends on what aligns with your interests and goals. Popular locations include Paris, the capital city that provides a diverse cultural experience, and Lyon, famed for its historical significance and culinary delights.

The Best Gap Year Programs in 2023-2024

France offers a variety of alternatives for gap years, depending on your interests. You can work as an au pair, teach English, participate in internships to gain professional experience or engage in volunteer projects. Language immersion programs are also popular for improving your French skills.

10 Cool Gap Year Programs in France for Adventurers

A gap year program in France usually ranges between $600 and $1250 but can vary significantly depending on the program type, location, and duration. If you opt for a formal program, you'll need to budget for program fees, transportation, accommodation, and personal expenses. It's essential to plan your budget early and consider fundraising options to make your gap year affordable.

France is generally regarded as a safe place to visit, but as with any other country, visitors should exercise caution, be aware of their surroundings, and adhere to safety norms. Petty crimes can occur therefore, it's best not to leave valuables unattended and to take common precautions when in the country.

Latest Program Reviews

The Key to a New Beginning

December 28, 2024by: Alyssa Galdamez - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple Destinations

9

Being part of the first ever Voyager semester in Fall 2023 was an experience I was unprepared for, and the best decision I could’ve ever made. Little did I know that by embarking on this endeavor, I would unlock a part of myself that I didn’t know existed until then. My semester with EF Gap Year taught me self-love, self discovery, and the importance of being uniquely myself. Never did I think it was possible to be able to afford this trip of a lifetime, but I was left with so much satisfaction and so much pride that I had set this goal and I achieved it. This semester taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to and no goal is too big or too impossible. I flew to the other side of the world by myself and saw glowing blue oceans in Thailand that I never thought I’d be able to witness in my lifetime. I learn pieces of languages from each country I spent time in. I connected with people I would’ve never met without this experience and found with locals who had so much passion for their homeland and wanted to share it with me. Was I prepared for this transformation and self growth? No, and only because it was more than I could ever ask for. To anyone who is scared to take such a leap of faith, do it anyway. I haven’t met one person who regretted doing this for themselves, or thought it was a waste of time or money. Dream big, and you will reach the stars.

The Key to a New Beginning

December 28, 2024by: Alyssa Galdamez - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple Destinations

9

Being part of the first ever Voyager semester in Fall 2023 was an experience I was unprepared for, and the best decision I could’ve ever made. Little did I know that by embarking on this endeavor, I would unlock a part of myself that I didn’t know existed until then. My semester with EF Gap Year taught me self-love, self discovery, and the importance of being uniquely myself. Never did I think it was possible to be able to afford this trip of a lifetime, but I was left with so much satisfaction and so much pride that I had set this goal and I achieved it. This semester taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to and no goal is too big or too impossible. I flew to the other side of the world by myself and saw glowing blue oceans in Thailand that I never thought I’d be able to witness in my lifetime. I learn pieces of languages from each country I spent time in. I connected with people I would’ve never met without this experience and found with locals who had so much passion for their homeland and wanted to share it with me. Was I prepared for this transformation and self growth? No, and only because it was more than I could ever ask for. To anyone who is scared to take such a leap of faith, do it anyway. I haven’t met one person who regretted doing this for themselves, or thought it was a waste of time or money. Dream big, and you will reach the stars.

Created connections all across the world

December 25, 2024by: Kayla Pedersen - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Year: Curated 23-Week Program Multiple Destinations

8

Every country visited granted an opportunity to meet new people and make life long connections with them. I now know amazing people from all across the world that I never would’ve been able to meet otherwise!