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49 Gap Year Jobs Programs
MAXIMO NIVEL
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Become poised for success in your university studies or career by gaining valuable life experiences in international settings. Go on a gap year in any or all of these Latin American countries: Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru! There are regular gap year programs, and then there are customized gap ye
International TEFL Academy
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A job teaching English in Senegal is a fantastic way to live overseas and get paid to travel the world! Armed with an International TEFL Academy TEFL/TESOL certification, you will be able to work abroad teaching English while getting paid. After taking our course, you can quickly begin working in ma
Go Abroad China Ltd.
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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 combini
See All 2 ProgramsEA Ski and Snowboard Training
4.71
7
Final Places Remaining for 2026/27 Ski & Snowboard Internships! 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 Snowboa
See All 6 ProgramsINTERNeX Pacific
4.41
22
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 vis
See All 2 ProgramsGlobal Work & Travel
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Craving something bigger than the same routine at home? Imagine spending your year hiking mountains, exploring glaciers, discovering hidden beaches and road tripping through one of the most scenic countries in the world, all while getting paid to travel. A New Zealand working holiday is the perfect
See All 11 ProgramsSpanish Gap Year
4.4
10
This all-in-one semester begins with one month traveling Spain by train, followed by two months in Barcelona where you choose your pathway. You’ll build soft skills (communication, confidence, problem-solving), hard skills (Spanish, digital tools, cooking), professional skills through internships or
World Unite!
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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
The TEFL Institute of Ireland
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Live and teach in Cambodia—one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and affordable destinations—while jumpstarting your global career! This paid internship is perfect for students and recent grads looking for adventure, cultural immersion, and real-world experience. You’ll spend 12 months teaching Engl
InterExchange
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The InterExchange Work & Travel Year USA program is one of the best ways to experience life in the United States. InterExchange is designated by the U.S. Department of State as a sponsor of the J-1 Work Travel Visa, which allows citizens of Australia and New Zealand to work for up to 12 months in th
See All 2 ProgramsGrabatour Travel
4.97
34
Are you looking for the perfect package to start your working holiday and find paid jobs in Australia? Oz Gap Year: A Paid Work Program is the perfect way to start your Aussie adventure. Spend a fun-filled week with lots of action-packed activities while learning about life, travel, and career in A
See All 2 ProgramsOyster Worldwide
4.63
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Kickstart your equine career with Paid Horse Work in Australia – the perfect opportunity for horse lovers aged 18 to 30 with a sense of adventure. Step straight into a guaranteed, pre-arranged paid groom role at a leading Australian stud farm, organised before you leave home. Begin your journey wit
See All 6 Programs0
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Turn your passion for skiing into an internationally recognized qualification and an unforgettable winter in the Austrian Alps. Join Cold Candy Academy in Kaprun and train with Austrian Level 4 (Staatlich Geprüft) instructors on the snow-sure Kitzsteinhorn Glacier. Whether you’re taking a gap year,
AdventureEXP
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Experience a new environment in one (or multiple) of our diverse program locations. You'll work with one of our vetted, partner employers in entry-level positions throughout the hospitality and tourism industry for 3-12 months during their peak season. Our programs operate all year round and locatio
Volunteers Around The World
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Seeking a pre-medical, pre-dental, pre-veterinary, or global and public health-related leadership opportunity abroad? Join the VAW Global Team Leader Fellowship. We are looking for Team Leaders and Chapter Presidents at your university or within your community! The Team Leader (TL) will have a numb
RealStep
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The Working Holiday Visa allows you to stay and work in Japan for up to one year. This experience places you in real jobs across Japan, giving you the chance to earn income while gaining international work exposure in one of the most unique and fast-paced countries on earth. Participants are placed
See All 3 ProgramsKyosei Foundation
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Discover Tanzania while making a real difference. Join the Kyosei Foundation and support education and farming at Kyosei Pre & Primary School. Work on an organic farm project that provides food for students and teaches sustainable agriculture. Engage with children through education, sports, and life
Camp Augusta
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🌍 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, blacksmit
World Class Programs
4.91
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Have an adventurous, creative experience of authentic culture and lifestyle in Florence, Italy, plus frequent day and weekend trips around the country to Pisa, Venice, Milan, Rome, Siena, Sicily, and more! Designed for students of all academic backgrounds, we are so excited to see students experienc
See All 2 ProgramsLocal Life Japan
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Spend your Working Holiday in Japan while experiencing everyday life in an authentic Japanese community. Our team helps you settle into life in Japan, providing accommodation, daily life setup, guidance on formal documents, and job search preparation. Typical part-time jobs include: • Cafés, re
Pure Exploration
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Embark on an epic journey through the South Island, where you'll immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand for 24 weeks of adventuring. Based in Queenstown you'll dive into the heart of the action as you conquer vast landscapes, navigate native forests, and explore the Southern
See All 2 ProgramsHow to Get a Gap Year Job Abroad
Overview
Prepare for a Gap Year
Understand the benefits
Here’s why a gap year job abroad can be such a game-changer for you—both personally and professionally:
- Boost your resume. Gap year jobs abroad provide valuable international work experience that stands out on your resume. It shows future employers that you’re adaptable, open to new challenges, and capable of thriving outside your comfort zone.
- Financial and professional growth. Paid gap year jobs help support your travels, contribute to your bank account, and enhance your job experience. This combination of financial and professional benefits is a great way to invest in yourself.
- Gain transferable skills. Working in a new country helps you develop skills that are valuable everywhere, such as cultural competency and the ability to work in diverse settings. These skills can make you more attractive to employers in any field.
Things to know
To help you prepare for your gap year abroad, here are some essential details you should be aware of:
- Costs. Prepare for initial expenses such as flight, application fees, and possibly room and board.
- Accommodations. Many gap year jobs offer housing, or at least temporary accommodation, until you find a place to live. If your job is in hospitality or a similar field, you might stay on-site, like a hostel or dorm.
- Visas. Research the visa requirements for your destination country and follow the application process carefully. Need help? Check out the GoAbroad embassy directory to locate your nearest embassy.
- Safety. Explore confidently, but stay alert. Avoid dark alleyways alone at night, travel in groups when possible, and always be aware of your surroundings.
Locations
Choose a Location
Work abroad in your gap year—not just in any ol’ country. Choose a destination that best overlaps your professional goals (or financial goals!) with the types of adventures you want to have. Here are some of our top picks:
United Kingdom
Come on over, mate! London is the best spot for gap year jobs abroad, and the United Kingdom has plenty of these for Americans and lovers of travel from all over the world. Become a museum guide and have one of the coolest jobs.
United States
The USA hosts some of the best gap year jobs in the world. The various states and regions offer endless opportunities to witness vast territories and meet unique people. Live your American gap year dream and live it to the fullest.
Australia
Spend some of the best gap year jobs along the Australian coast, saving the Great Barrier Reef or protecting other precious wildlife. Aussie natives are known for their welcoming spirits and kind gestures. They will go out of their way to include you and make you feel right at home.
Getting Started
Tips and Advice
Finding programs that align with your ideals, getting the paperwork in order, and saving enough money aren’t easy tasks. But don’t overthink it—there’s a process for everything. Here's one you can follow:
1. Get matched
To find your match, use our Online Advisor to discover gap year jobs abroad that fit your interests. It’s a simple way to connect with the best programs without the hassle of searching through each one.
2. Choose a program
Set up a MyGoAbroad account to save time. The platform lets you save and compare your favorite gap year job programs, making it easier to choose the right one.
3. Decide when to go
It ultimately depends on when you feel ready for a gap year, but here are a few ideal times to consider:
- After college - Gain international work experience and explore potential career paths before settling into full-time employment after graduation.
- Career Break/Mid-career - Step away from your current job for a gap year job and reignite your passion, equipping you with fresh skills to boost your career.
- During college - Pause your studies for a job abroad to gain real-world experience, enhancing your future education.
- Post high school - Before starting college, taking a gap year to work abroad can help you gain valuable life experience and clarity about your next steps.
4. Funding & scholarships
Don’t let finances stop you from going on a gap year. Fill out our GoAbroad scholarships and deals application to explore financial support options.
5. Apply
Ready to submit your application to your chosen placement? Click “Apply Now!” If you have questions about the program, click “Inquire Here,” and a coordinator can guide you through the next steps and ensure everything is on track.
6. Get your essentials
Get ready by applying for necessary visas and passports, booking your flights, and purchasing travel insurance. With these essentials in place, you’ll be set for a successful gap year experience.
Latest Program Reviews
It Was an Incredible Experience I Ever Had!
June 10, 2026by: Malakhi M - United KingdomProgram: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
New Zealand is an amazing place, the sights and landscapes are absolutely incredible. From the time i arrived and even before i arrived i was guided through everything i needed for the trip and had things waiting for me. Although only a few weeks into my trip i feel that global work and travel have made this incredible trip feel amazing and i feel like I'm at home already.
The Warmth Was So Real
June 10, 2026by: Serena S - United StatesProgram: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
My travel agent was amazing! She was so sweet and kind, she cared and made talking about this fun. She gave me ideas and is so good at what she does! She made me feel very comfortable and we laughed a lot and had fun. My experience was so awesome. I feel like i want to know her in person. I loved her!
They Just Made Sure I Didn't Mess It Up
June 10, 2026by: Steven S - AustraliaProgram: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
I mainly used global work and travel to keep me on track for going to NZ. This was because I was already on a visa in another country not through glabal work and travel and I also wanted to meet/know people before hand. Global work and travel did both just swimmingly! I was able to meet the 5 other global work and travel people coming in to Auckland right when they arrived. I talked to 2 of them prior to me landing. We hung out and did activities everyday! It was cool to see pictures of the inclusion with All the Global work and travel people together. Even though our jobs are in different towns we still plan to meet up somewhere along the way! Also Hannah was very good at keeping me on track.
Didn't Think I'd Be This Settled This Fast
June 10, 2026by: Amelia A - United KingdomProgram: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
I booked pretty much everything with with Global Work and Travel which took a big stress off my shoulders. From the flights here which were really good to getting to the Attic it was really smooth. The Global team were really helpful and had good response times to any emails for questions. The team set me up with an interview for a job which I've now been at for almost a month and I'm loving it. I also decided to join the rugby team in the town I work and I'm really enjoying playing for them. I decided to keep the Sky walk in Auckland towards the end of my trip which I'm really happy i got the option to do. Overall I've had a really good experience in New Zealand and would highly recommend a visit.
Worth Every Penny
June 10, 2026by: Jason J - CanadaProgram: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
"For my first long-term international solo trip, Global Work & Travel has been such a reassuring asset that provided excellent support throughout the entire travel process. Without them, I would've hesitated at every step while planning my trip, questioning whether I checked every box I would need to or found the most suitable options. Their coordinators really streamlined the entire thing and set me up for success! Not only did they ensure that I followed a good time-frame to acquire all the necessary documentation, they would even arrange some of the transactions on my behalf after going over the service details and price with me, much of which I would have been poorly informed on otherwise. If you would prefer to obtain any of these things yourself, then they are more than willing to work with you. For example, you may want to secure a job and a place to stay way ahead of finalizing your trip as it was a bit nerve-racking having to wait until I was only a couple weeks out from my departure before they set up an interview. However, for me the most intimidating aspect of living abroad for an extended period is finding a reliable source of income. So I really appreciated how they work as liaisons for various businesses, though of course they can't work miracles as you'll still have to compete with other applicants. Many employers are looking to hire rather quickly and expect you to already have all that's required for you to begin working including your visa, bank account, and tax number. So GW&T gives you the best chance of landing a gig by ensuring you've covered all your bases, that you apply to opportunities relative to your experience and to companies that are familiar with hiring foreigners, and do so all on a timeline that's feasible for them to meet their workforce demands. Having put my complete trust in GW&T, it all worked out as they helped me find a real sweet position that fit my interests and came with accommodations! The initial hostel arrangement for when I first landed was also great and very convenient! They chose a clean, reputable place in a prime location and booked it alongside plenty of other travelers using their program so it was easy to make a lot of friends. Now that I've been through the planning procedure once myself, I could likely book another trip of this duration again on my own, but all the resources they provided and activities included were well worth it! I was able to learn about the culture and get a taste of what it has to offer while engaging in enjoyable experiences I likely wouldn't have bothered to organize personally. Although I can't guarantee you'll get as much as I did out of their services, I would definitely recommend them and would certainly work with them again myself!"
Such an Amazing Experience!
June 10, 2026by: Cameron C - Northern Mariana Islands (USA)Program: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
Global work and travel is an excellent stepping stone into the world of travel! They help you with everything you are going to need before your go abroad. With their help I was able to travel to New Zealand and get a job here. It's already been such an amazing experience. I have made new friends and got to do so many amazing things.
Didn't Have to Google a Single Thing
June 10, 2026by: Hector H - Hawaii (USA)Program: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
Global made planning my whole trip easier and less stressful. I didn't have to worry about where to find official documents or where I needed to go for insurance, flights, and immigration because they did that work and research for me. Megan my trip coordinator was always lovely to speak with and very helpful.
Didn't Expect to Find My People Here Too
June 10, 2026by: Libby L - Guam (USA)Program: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
Without the help of this amazing team of people I would have been lost. The pre booked excursions have made me memories of a lifetime. With all of the other travelers who chose this company have been some of the best people I've ever met & we are having the best time! :)
Easiest Decision I Ever Made
June 10, 2026by: Gabrielle G - CanadaProgram: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
The sign up process was very easy, I had quite a bit of time to prepare for traveling to NZ. Upon getting here, my arrivals coordinator set up for me to do the Auckland bridge walk with AJ Hackett (10/10) would recommend doing that. As well as wine tasting on Waiheke island. I got a job in an awesome little lakeside town and have had the opportunity to go white water rafting with Kaitiaki Adventures (captain jack was awesome) and got to do the bungy swing in Taupo.
Didn't Have to Think About a Single Thing
June 10, 2026by: Valerye V - United StatesProgram: Working Holiday in New Zealand | Your Kiwi Adventure
I appreciated how organized and well-structured the trip was. The itinerary was thoughtfully planned, and everything ran on schedule. My Trip Coordinator played a key role in making the experience smooth by providing timely updates, managing logistics efficiently, and being consistently available for any questions. Their professionalism made the trip significantly easier.
Internship + Chinese study changed my life
April 02, 2026by: Sofia Rexobo - SpainProgram: GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program
I wanted a gap year that actually meant something, not just backpacking. This program gave me structure and purpose. I studied at Fudan University in Shanghai while interning at a finance firm. My Mandarin improved so much I could hold business meetings by month four. The support team was incredible — always there when I needed help. Now I'm working in international trade, and this experience is on every interview list. Worth every penny.

Incredible experience
June 18, 2025by: EmilyOur son found the Future Leaders Program when he decided to take a gap semester after his first semester of college. Spanish Gap Year checked all the boxes we were looking for, offering an experience that had both the cultural component and the structure from which to keep building on the skills he was learning in college. Future Leaders offered the chance to continue learning challenging subjects (Spanish and business concepts), exposed him to two different cities, and also had independent dorm living in the second half so he could continue the independence he started in college. The program staff were incredible. Overall, the program exceeded our expectations and we would recommend it to anyone!
Life-Changing Gap Year in the Heart of China
June 16, 2025by: Noah Taylor - AustraliaProgram: GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program
I joined the GAC Gap Year Program right after high school, and it was truly transformational. I split my time between learning Mandarin, interning at a local startup, and participating in cultural activities like calligraphy and martial arts. The homestay experience gave me real insight into Chinese family life, and my language skills improved faster than I ever expected. It wasn’t just educational — it was fun, challenging, and eye-opening. If you’re a high school grad looking for something meaningful before college, this program is 100% worth it.

Gap Year Adventure
June 15, 2025by: Sophia R - United KingdomProgram: GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program
I joined the GAC Gap Year program hoping to make my year off productive, and it ended up exceeding all expectations. The Chinese language classes were intense but super rewarding — I went from barely knowing anything to having real conversations with locals. My internship placement in an international marketing firm gave me hands-on experience and boosted my resume. What made it special was the balance: mornings in class, afternoons at the office, evenings exploring Beijing with new friends. I came back home more independent, culturally aware, and with a clearer career path. Highly recommended if you're serious about making your gap year count.
Gap Year Adventure
June 15, 2025by: Sophia R - United KingdomProgram: GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program
I joined the GAC Gap Year program hoping to make my year off productive, and it ended up exceeding all expectations. The Chinese language classes were intense but super rewarding — I went from barely knowing anything to having real conversations with locals. My internship placement in an international marketing firm gave me hands-on experience and boosted my resume. What made it special was the balance: mornings in class, afternoons at the office, evenings exploring Beijing with new friends. I came back home more independent, culturally aware, and with a clearer career path. Highly recommended if you're serious about making your gap year count.
The Best Decision I’ve Made Yet
June 02, 2025by: Damien Clarke - United StatesProgram: GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program
Taking a gap year with Go Abroad China was the perfect way to step out of my comfort zone and explore something meaningful before college. I split my time between immersive Chinese language classes and a professional internship, which made every day feel productive and exciting. The homestay experience helped me truly connect with Chinese culture and improve my language skills in real-life situations. I’ve come out of this program more mature, globally aware, and motivated than ever. If you’re on the fence about what to do after high school or during a break, this program is 100% worth it.

My Unforgettable experience in the Canadian Mountains
May 21, 2025by: Aron Horemans - BelgiumProgram: Pre-arranged Jobs in Canadian Summer and Winter Resorts
During my gap year, I had the incredible opportunity to work abroad in the Canadian mountains. Surrounded by amazing landscapes I gained hands-on experience in a dynamic environment. Whether assisting guests at a ski resort or living in the mountains, I developed valuable skills in teamwork, adaptability, and communication. The process for applying for an internship was made really easy as I was offered all the help I needed. This experience helped me grow personally but also professionally and I would recommend it to anyone who is thinking about doing an internship abroad.
A Transformative Year of Growth, Culture & Career Clarity
May 18, 2025by: Grant Keller - United StatesProgram: GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program
Taking a gap year with Go Abroad China was the best decision I made after graduation. I joined hoping to improve my Mandarin and gain some internship experience, but I walked away with so much more. The language classes at a top university were both challenging and fun, and the internship placement helped me discover a career path I genuinely enjoy. Living in China gave me a real appreciation for the culture and people, and I became more independent and open-minded through it all. This program truly helped me grow both personally and professionally.

Fun with GoAbroadChina
January 07, 2025by: Britney Obrien - Costa RicaProgram: GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program
GoAbroadChina truly perfect . They perfectly matched me with a program that allowed me to excel in my chosen field. The hands-on experience I gained was invaluable, and I developed skills I never thought possible. My homestay family was incredibly welcoming and comfortable and enriching environment. They patiently guided me in improving my Chinese language skills, which was a major highlight of the program. I returned home feeling more confident, knowledgeable, and culturally aware. I highly recommend GoAbroadChina to anyone seeking a transformative gap year experience."

Delivered Well beyond Our Expectations
December 04, 2024by: Ken Silliman - United StatesSpanish Gap Year: Our son, who is a junior at a large east coast US university, decided to take a GAP semester to gain life and real-world work experience. After meeting with a consultant at Gap Year Solutions, he was able to learn about a number of different GAP options in different countries. After careful deliberation, he chose The Spanish Gap Year Future Leaders Entrepreneurship program. He had an amazing experience with this program and gained more self-confidence, especially by navigating through a foreign country. He really loved the Spanish culture, and totally benefited from the entrepreneurial activities/projects and mentoring offered by the Program. I visited him in Barcelona, and I was really impressed with the housing (clean, safe, and excellent amenities). He spoke very highly he quality of work given to him at his internship (Lean Mail) and really liked his boss. The Program's mentors and group activities were also top-notch (fun and enriching). He now feels inspired to return to school with renewed enthusiasm and has very valuable experience to put on his resume, not to mention wonderful memories! https://spanishgapyear.com/future-leaders/


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