Gap Year Internship Programs

The VACorps Gap Year Program is a transformative experience that will prepare you for the world that awaits after you finish high school. Our program will help you identify your personal goals, values, and passions and incorporate them into your career and life plan. You will gain real-world work experience, make new friends from all over the globe, and have the time of your life as you explore the most beautiful city in the world. As a participant of our program, you will join a community that feels like a family. When you arrive in South Africa, we make it incredibly easy for you to adjust to life in Cape Town and call this city your home. From your very first day in the country, we will guide you through a comprehensive orientation that ensures you will take full advantage of every moment in South Africa. You'll be immediately networked with other participants, forming a peer group to relate to as you quickly adapt to life in a new city that you'll soon call home. Gap year students live together in the Gap Year House, which is another highlight of the VACorps Gap Year Program experience.

Step beyond the classroom and into the world with EF Language Abroad. Our immersive programs combine academic excellence with life-changing cultural experiences in 11 stunning global destinations across 8 countries and 7 languages. Whether you’re a high school student eager to explore the world, a college student preparing for international studies, or simply seeking global fluency, EF offers customizable programs that meet your goals and fit your schedule. Spend up to a year living, learning, and thriving abroad with EF’s long-term language programs. Whether you aim to achieve true fluency, prepare for university, boost your career, or experience multiple cultures, EF’s Language Year Abroad offers an immersive journey designed around your goals. Choose from flexible start dates, tailor your experience with academic, professional, or multi-destination tracks, and return home with confidence, credentials, and unforgettable memories. You’ll return home significantly more confident, linguistically proficient, and culturally savvy—with credentials, career edge, and life-changing memories. Ready to embark on the journey that transforms your future?

Discover Abu Dhabi as an intern, where world-class business and Arabian Gulf culture will shape your professional path. Abu Dhabi is home to a rapidly growing economy, where participants can explore real-world career opportunities while immersing themselves in an international work environment. Across 12 weeks, dive into city life, sharpen your professional skills, and collaborate with peers eager to explore global careers. Your internship includes 15-20 hours per week of hands-on experience at a workplace that matches your professional interests. An optional 15-hour course prepares you professionally, with optional classes available through ASU Online to earn U.S. college credit. Professionally focused workshops, networking events, and cultural excursions add meaning to your internship abroad. Venture on one overnight excursion and exciting day trips with other CIEE participants. Visit the world-famous Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and stroll the halls of art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a museum partnered with the Louvre in Paris. Your time in Abu Dhabi will push you to grow as a young professional and culturally competent individual.

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 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 medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Discover a new environment and a new ‘you’ in this 24-week gap year program offered by Maximo Nivel. Stay in Costa Rica, starting in the capital San Jose and then to other stunning locations including Manuel Antonio Beach. Totally customizable, thanks to a pre-planned itinerary, our gap year in Costa Rica includes: – 12 weeks of Spanish language classes – 8 weeks volunteer—Working with Kids – 8 weeks volunteer—Teaching English – 4 weeks volunteer—Sea Turtle Conservation – 1 week Surf School – 1 week Scuba certification – 2-week break with housing Maximo Nivel partners directly with an official School of Record in the US allowing us to provide university credit through Spanish language studies and volunteer work.

Lying in the crystal-clear tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao’s abundant and diverse coral reefs offer some of the finest scuba diving found anywhere on the planet! The perfect location to maximize your diving and reef ecology experience, this exciting and in-depth program has been specifically designed for volunteers wishing to engage in marine conservation activities that protect, restore, and conserve Koh Tao’s coral reefs. With both 4 and 8-week programs available, get ready for a comprehensive marine conservation experience! If you're looking for a little more, join us for a full 12 weeks and complete an award-winning Divemaster training course, which is perfect if you wish to achieve a professional diving qualification that allows you to transform your passion into a paid job!

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Namibia, surrounded by stunning Appaloosa horses. Enhance your natural horsemanship skills whilst assisting with looking after over 40 stud horses, miniature ponies, alpacas, and rehabilitated equine rescues. This programme is designed to develop your communication with horses using methods such as liberty, trust exercises, clicker training, and bodywork to build a deep connection. Experience the freedom of riding with just a halter or neckrein, using your seat, legs and balance to guide your horse. You will have an 8 module Natural Horsemanship Programme run by an incredible team. You will be assisting with the training and backing of horses, working with members of the Namibian San tribe, as well as helping the children of the local community develop a connection with these beautiful equines. You'll also have time to relax, enjoy guided safari rides, and appreciate Namibia's stunning nature and wildlife. All riding abilities accepted.

Pacific Discovery's Rewilding Gap Semester offers a unique 10-week escape for young adventurers (17-22) seeking to reconnect with nature, learn sustainable practices, and create lasting memories. This program goes beyond sightseeing; it's a chance to become a steward of the land and discover a deeper connection to the environment. Immerse yourself in a wild paradise. Live in a yurt on a remote New Zealand wilderness homestead, surrounded by pristine ocean and lush landscapes. Participate in hands-on conservation efforts like restoring native flora, removing invasive species, and learning about marine biology through scuba certification. Become a sustainability champion. Gain practical skills in sustainable living practices, from farm-to-table cuisine to eco-friendly building techniques. Learn about environmental challenges and solutions through workshops and discussions with conservation professionals. Forge deeper connections and personal growth. Develop leadership skills and self-reliance as you contribute to meaningful projects. Experience peaceful reflection time, facilitated group discussions, and space for introspection and personal growth.

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.

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.

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!

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!

Established in 1959 and starting operations in 1968, Galápagos National Park is the first of its kind in Ecuador. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it makes up approximately 97% of the Galápagos Islands. Our Ecotourism program is ideal if you're interested in environmental management and passionate about promoting ecology through tourism. Acquire hands-on experience working in the park’s Communications Department. As a volunteer, you'll go to the park’s visitor sites to give satisfaction questionnaires to visitors. You'll also provide tourism-related information in situ as well as generate a statistical database from your surveys. This is a wonderful opportunity if you're pursuing a career in ecotourism and environmental management. Requirements - Some Spanish to communicate with fellow workers and visitors - Ability to work independently and in a team - Ability to make recommendations based on knowledge and experience - Flexibility in work schedules and tasks to accommodate the day-to-day needs of a local institution - Physical ability to work outdoors with potentially high sun, elements, and temperature exposure - Ability to independently collect and register data

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 exciting placements for students and young professionals. Guided by our vision to “Explore the World,” the program goes beyond work experience—you’ll discover Japan’s culture, business, and people while growing as a global professional. From Finance to Fashion, Robotics to Journalism, Game Design to Event Management, and IT to Trade—we have opportunities to match your goals. No Japanese language skills? No problem. The world is open to you with SEKAIA. Our multinational team supports you every step of the way, offering 24-hour assistance, insurance, and personalized services to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience. Start your journey today—send us a message and take the first step toward your future in Japan!

Intern abroad with Linguistic Horizons in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru! We are located at the foot of the Andes mountains between Cusco and Machu Picchu! This program is ideal for those who want to go off the beaten path to have a truly immersive experience. You'll improve your Spanish, experience local life, and learn about the Peruvian and Andean cultures. You will intern with a local Peruvian company or organization. This internship program allows you to gain valuable experience in your field of study. We arrange customized voluntary internship placements for each candidate. You can stay for as little as 2 weeks or up to 6 months. Visit our website for more details!

🌍 Work, Live & Play at Camp Augusta – A Workaway Adventure! Camp Augusta isn’t just a job – it’s a journey. Live in community, play the wildest games you’ve ever imagined, and grow through training in child development, leadership, and unique activities like high ropes, horseback riding, blacksmithing, archery, and arts. With a 1:5 counselor-to-camper ratio and 70 staff for 100 campers at a time, we teach (and prioritize) intentional and meaningful connection and communication. Staff and campers live in rustic cabins without electricity, creating music, stories, and adventures away from screens. Roles include Counselor, Program Coordinator, Master of Fun & Games, and more! 📅 Dates: May 12 – Aug 8, 2026 (options from Apr– late Sept) 💰 Compensation: Usually around $3500 for summer (depends on agency), with/ housing, meals, and ZERO living expenses 🥗 Fresh organic meals with dietary accommodations provided Requirements: Age 19+ by June 1, full summer availability, excitement, and experience for FULL days with kids 8-16 Outcomes: Meaningful impact, deep personal and professional growth, lifelong relationships. 👉 See our Webpage to learn more and fill in an Interest Form!

Participate in this gap year program in Queenstown, New Zealand, with therapeutic support for young adults ages 18-22. Spring | Feb 18 – Apr 28, 2025 Fall | Sep 17 – Nov 25, 2025 Embark on the ultimate gap year adventure with our transformative program, designed to support your mental health and well-being. We blend thrilling adventure, immersive travel, cultural exploration, meaningful volunteering, dynamic internships, and communal living with essential life skills to ensure a holistic growth experience. Picture yourself mastering independence, learning to run a household, and becoming an exceptional roommate and housemate. Our program stands out by featuring a live-in therapeutic coach who provides 24/7 in-the-moment coaching, wellness lessons, and personal development support. This unique component ensures you receive constant guidance, fostering resilience, self-awareness, and emotional well-being. This isn’t just a gap year—it’s a journey to self-discovery in the world's most awe-inspiring playground. Join us in New Zealand and redefine what it means to explore, learn, grow, and thrive. This is your chance to experience unparalleled adventure and personal well-being.

Join this hands-on internship and help low-income Indigenous communities revive ancestral building techniques to create sustainable housing for all. THE CHALLENGE Before construction industrialization, Andean communities built with rich clay soils. Globalization shifted practices to single-skin concrete buildings—faster and “modern,” but colder, costlier, less ecological, and more earthquake-prone. Hundreds of adobe homes now lie in ruin, and as these traditional methods vanish, so does their cultural and architectural heritage. THE SOLUTION We’re helping restore these buildings to preserve heritage and provide future benefits, from dignified homes to income through tourism. With support from our experienced team, join a design or build project to learn how adobe houses are made in the Andes and help restore those that might otherwise collapse. OUR METHODOLOGY Our internships use Design Thinking to co-create solutions with local partners. You’ll learn to observe, ideate, and prototype in real contexts, building skills while driving sustainable change. On weekends—or before and after your stay—you can explore Ecuador, from the Amazon to the Galápagos.