High School Study Abroad in Asia

Asia is the world’s largest continent, so it will be easiest to cover potential locations for high school programs in Asia by breaking it down into sub-regions. There are 48 recognized countries encompassed by the region of Asia. However, since the Middle East is considered its own region by most geographers, we will focus on high school programs in the following sub-regions:

In East Asia, China, Japan, and South Korea are all very popular destinations for high school programs abroad. The history of these countries is long and closely intertwined, each having developed from ancient civilizations into unique and globally influential modern states.

In Southeast Asia, most countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, provide incredibly enticing destinations for high school programs abroad. Southeast Asia is largely a developing region, with a recent history that has been the focal point of much regional conflict. Today the region stands out as a safe and fascinating place for high school students to travel to and explore, culturally and geographically.

Moving further west, the Indian subcontinent, which includes India, Nepal, and Bhutan, is another distinct Asian sub-region, offering high school students an enriching opportunity to expand their education abroad. Largely sheltered by the Himalayas to the north, the Indian subcontinent shares a connected history and a deeply spiritual culture.

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Latest Program Reviews

Japanese Summer!

August 31, 2025by: Laila Kim - United StatesProgram: The Experiment: Japan: Language & Culture

8

Going to Japan was something I had dreamed about for a long time. I was introduced through anime and manga, but quickly became fascinated with their history, language, and culture. Participating in the Experiment gave me the opportunity to experience the things I had admired and researched independently. Going to historical sites like Hiroshima Castle, viewing art at the Osaka National Art Museum, and eating cultural cuisine like Takoyaki were memories that I will always treasure. I learned so much about Japanese people by talking to the college students who accompanied us and observing people in everyday settings. This was especially true during the Homestay. Spending time in a Japanese home I got to experience a typical weekend for my family, allowing me to have an authentic perspective of what life is like in a different culture. With my homestay family I got to dress in Yukata and go to a local festival, or Omatsuri. This was the highlight of my trip! Watching Taiko and talking with local residents was such a unique experience. I’m so glad the Experiment matched me with such welcoming and lovely people! Everything from the quiet bullet train rides to the bustling area of Dotonburi were thoughtfully planned by the experiment to give greater understanding of Japan. This program was great for people who want to be introduced to Japanese culture!

My experience on the trip

August 27, 2025by: Isabel Miles - American SamoaProgram: Japanese Immersion Summer Program

10

I had a amazing time in Japan! I learned a lot about the history of the country, saw many amazing sites, made awesome memories, and tried new things. I made some really good friends on this trip and always felt safe so I would recommend it for teenagers who are looking for life experience. The housing situation is great in Osaka and Tokyo and most of the time we were well fed. Meals could run late at times, but they always made sure to feed us. I recommend the history major because in that one you will take the most advantage of the country your in, sometimes even getting to see more sites than the other majors. But all in all I had an amazing time and am super glad I did it!

Japanese Summer!

August 31, 2025by: Laila Kim - United StatesProgram: The Experiment: Japan: Language & Culture

8

Going to Japan was something I had dreamed about for a long time. I was introduced through anime and manga, but quickly became fascinated with their history, language, and culture. Participating in the Experiment gave me the opportunity to experience the things I had admired and researched independently. Going to historical sites like Hiroshima Castle, viewing art at the Osaka National Art Museum, and eating cultural cuisine like Takoyaki were memories that I will always treasure. I learned so much about Japanese people by talking to the college students who accompanied us and observing people in everyday settings. This was especially true during the Homestay. Spending time in a Japanese home I got to experience a typical weekend for my family, allowing me to have an authentic perspective of what life is like in a different culture. With my homestay family I got to dress in Yukata and go to a local festival, or Omatsuri. This was the highlight of my trip! Watching Taiko and talking with local residents was such a unique experience. I’m so glad the Experiment matched me with such welcoming and lovely people! Everything from the quiet bullet train rides to the bustling area of Dotonburi were thoughtfully planned by the experiment to give greater understanding of Japan. This program was great for people who want to be introduced to Japanese culture!

My experience on the trip

August 27, 2025by: Isabel Miles - American SamoaProgram: Japanese Immersion Summer Program

10

I had a amazing time in Japan! I learned a lot about the history of the country, saw many amazing sites, made awesome memories, and tried new things. I made some really good friends on this trip and always felt safe so I would recommend it for teenagers who are looking for life experience. The housing situation is great in Osaka and Tokyo and most of the time we were well fed. Meals could run late at times, but they always made sure to feed us. I recommend the history major because in that one you will take the most advantage of the country your in, sometimes even getting to see more sites than the other majors. But all in all I had an amazing time and am super glad I did it!