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Summer High School Student Exchange Programs

Summer: 500 days of blissful freedom, hiking in the mountains, watching the sunset over the ocean with your best friends...it’s a thing of beauty in your dreams. In reality, if you want to get ahead with your studies and college applications, it might look more like the inside of a classroom. Actually, you can have both. Summer exchange programs for high school students offer you the ideal opportunity to boost your grades while exploring a new country with new friends from all over the world — the summer of your dreams just became attainable!
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80 Summer Student Exchange Programs for High School Students

Arcos Journeys Abroad

10

8

Ancestral Flavors: A Oaxacan Culinary Journey

Oaxaca is known as one of the foodie capitals of the world. Immerse yourself in the region's rich culinary history through its exquisite food as you learn about local ingredients, Indigenous traditions, and time-honored cooking techniques still in use today. Explore vibrant open-air markets and learn the art of selecting fresh ingredients for unique dishes while gaining insights into Oaxacan culture through food. Connect with local cooking instructors, producers, and restaurant owners to deepen your understanding of the region's food cultures and the essential role of traditional ingredients such as corn, chocolate, and chiles in Oaxacan and Mexican diets. Taste and explore many facets of Oaxacan cuisine through engaging cooking workshops that make language learning an enjoyable and natural part of your experience. A basic level of Spanish is recommended for this program. Join us for an unforgettable culinary journey in Oaxaca!

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AFS-USA

8.67

3

AFS Intercultural Programs: Spain Summer Language Study

Advance your Spanish with both formal study and first-hand cultural experience during this four-week program in Málaga, Spain. During our summer language camp in Spain, you’ll have the unique opportunity to make friends with students from around the world by living together on a college campus in the Teatinos neighborhood. On weekends, join friends on trips to destinations in southern Spain such as the famous and beautiful Alhambra in Granada and the sun-drenched cities of Seville, Cordoba, and Marbella. This camp welcomes around 60 AFSers from around the world, including students from Brazil, Canada, China, Czechia, Denmark, Italy, Norway and Turkey – to name a few! The camp setting is designed to allow you to form friendships with individuals from around the world while experiencing chaperoned experiences or on campus activities like soccer, volleyball, and basketball. As you explore your community, you’re bound to notice southern Spain’s laid-back and social culture. You’ll find that people like to take a step back and enjoy life. The primary focus of this program will be language-learning, so take advantage of the immersion experience and really skyrocket your Spanish skills!

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

0

0

Volunteer Abroad for Teens & High School Students

GoEco offers a range of enriching volunteer programs abroad, specifically designed for teenagers aged 15-17. These adventures provide a perfect blend of meaningful volunteer experiences, cultural immersion, and exciting local explorations. With a higher level of supervision, these programs are ideal for teens interested in animal welfare, conservation, or humanitarian aid. Destinations include Costa Rica, Bali, Thailand, Kenya, and Ecuador, each offering unique opportunities to contribute to local communities and ecosystems while gaining invaluable life experiences. Teen Programs and Destinations Costa Rica: Educational projects, cultural immersion, and recreational activities in a picturesque setting. Bali: Marine conservation with a focus on rehabilitating and protecting sea turtles. Thailand: Humanitarian projects combined with cultural adventures for a comprehensive experience. Kenya: Engage in climate change initiatives, wildlife conservation, and community projects. Ecuador: Work at an Amazon wildlife center, caring for various animals and supporting conservation efforts.

Abbey Road Programs

9.45

11

Barcelona, Spain: Spanish Summer Immersion for HS Students

Travel to Barcelona, Spain with Abbey Road Programs this summer! Improve your Spanish, meet new friends, explore the amazing sights of the Barcelona region, and so much more! The highlight of the program is our residence: a modern, comfortable and secure apartment complex, within the city. It has a gym, rooftop pool, AC, wifi, and many common areas for students to socialize. Abbey Road provides three meals a day of high-quality food through a variety of venues. We cook together one or two nights per week, with the help of our staff (this is excellent preparation for college years). On some nights we go out for group dinners at trendy local restaurants in the El Born neighborhood. Some nights we have takeout food. In any case, our students eat authentic, quality food, as opposed to fast food or tourist meals. Our teaching method emphasizes active, hands-on learning, cultural and language immersion. Most of our Spanish classes include interacting with locals, practicing Spanish, and small group Spanish conversation workshops. We go to many cultural and athletic events in Barcelona and its vicinity, as well as day trips to Figueres, Girona, Sitges, and more.

MAXIMO NIVEL

9.5

2

Summer Camp in Costa Rica - Spanish Camp!

Develop your Spanish skills in Costa Rica with the Maximo Nivel Spanish Camp. Maximo Nivel Summer Spanish Camp is a full-immersion experience that integrates the Spanish language into all aspects of the program, including community service, sports, cultural activities, and tourism. You receive 3 hours of Spanish classes per day before heading out to different cultural activities and tours in the afternoon. Activities include museum visits, national park tours, creative workshops, recreational games, and more. This unique experience helps you develop a better sense of the world and grow into a true global citizen. Spanish Camp is an experience you remember forever! Every day, Spanish campers immerse themselves in the Spanish language while participating in a variety of activities and events around the capital city of San Jose and the beach towns of Manuel Antonio and Quepos. During weeknights, planned activities include salsa lessons, bonfires, karaoke, game nights, and movie nights, as well as quality time and Spanish language practice with your host family. On weekends, you take part in exciting cultural adventures and nature tours led by our professional guides.

International Medical Aid (IMA)

10

11

IMA Cross-Cultural Care Mental Health Internships Abroad

International Medical Aid (IMA) pioneers impactful mental health internships worldwide for undergraduates, graduates, and licensed mental health professionals. Through these programs, developed at Johns Hopkins University, participants provide vital mental health services in underserved regions of East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Focused on bridging the gap in mental health access, IMA's internships confront cultural stigmas and enhance community well-being through comprehensive public health initiatives and education. This hands-on experience not only furthers interns' practical skills but also integrates them into meaningful projects that combat the root causes of mental illness. IMA's dedication to ethical, sustainable solutions and its substantial investment in local communities set these internships apart, ensuring a safe, enriching experience backed by 24/7 support. Participants emerge from the program with enhanced clinical acumen, a deeper understanding of global mental health issues, and a fortified application for graduate schools, enriched by unique cultural immersions and professional mentorship.

Greenheart Travel

8.92

13

Teen Language Camp in Salamanca, Spain with Greenheart!

Learn and improve your Spanish through full language and cultural immersion on Greenheart Travel’s summer language camp program in the bustling city of Salamanca! We welcome teens of all skills, including beginners! Live with a Spanish host family and make friends from around the world, all while learning about the country and culture of Spain. Program at a glance: - Three morning classes for 50 minutes, Monday through Friday, in air-conditioned classrooms - Classes are taught by native-speaking teachers who specialize in teaching Spanish as a foreign language - Students receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the course - Programs are divided by age (14-16 and 17-18)

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Seville Abroad

9.43

21

Top Rated Program High School Abroad in Spain 2025
Summer Program in Spain with Seville Abroad

With a high emphasis on close contact, trust, and personalized attention to students and families, we present this unique Summer Program in Spain, which is not like any other summer program. We will make sure you gain and enjoy an experience of total immersion in the life, language, and culture of Spain. Our Summer program in Spain doesn't intend to offer a sightseeing trip, but rather an absolutely educational immersion experience that helps you to approach a lifestyle different from the one you are used to. As a result, you learn how to open up to other cultures and communicate in another language—in short, offering you another part of the world that can enrich your personal life experience. Not only will you have the opportunity to get to know Spain, but you will also feel immersed in the Spanish culture and life with plenty of Spanish lessons, educational activities, excursions, and day trips while sharing time with a Spanish host family who will be delighted in sharing their home, customs, language, and lifestyle with you!

LanguBridge Education Centre

9.5

8

Summer Korean Immersion Program at Seoul

The Seoul summer program of LanguBridge provides students an unforgettable immersion experience in Korea through intense language learning and cultural exploration. Participants have the opportunity to live with a host family that is more than happy to share the local culture and language with international students. This is an ideal opportunity for teens to explore a different culture and learn at the same time. The language study is hosted at a local university, which provides high-quality instruction and a safe and comfortable learning environment. Staying with a local host family allows students to immerse themselves in the local language and culture and interact with local people. The trips and culture lessons are to complement the language classes to make a fun and enriching experience. Our programs combine premium quality with unmatched value — delivering the same depth of learning and cultural engagement as other programs, but at a much lower price.

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Reach Cambridge

9.78

27

Reach Cambridge International Summer Courses

Join us for the experience of a lifetime! Reach Cambridge offers students aged 14-18 from across the world the unique opportunity to prepare for their future staying in university accommodation in the beautiful University City of Cambridge. We offer a diverse range of subject courses taught by expert tutors, complemented by engaging workshops and lectures. Each course is specially designed to complement high school studies while offering a glimpse of university-style learning. We offer a varied daily program of inclusive, fun activities and weekend excursions to other famous cultural highlights within the UK, such as London, Oxford, and Brighton. Join our truly international community of students and make friends from around the world in a safe and positive environment. Applications are now open for 2026! Please visit our website to check offers and apply. Choose your program: Two weeks Sunday 5th July - Saturday 18th July 2026 Sunday 19th July - Saturday 1st August 2026 Sunday 2nd August - Saturday 15th August 2026 Four weeks Sunday 5th July - Saturday 1st August 2026 Sunday 19th July - Saturday 15th August 2026 Six weeks Sunday 5th July - Saturday 15th August 2026

World Class Programs

9.88

8

Transcend Time in Greece and Italy: Western Civilization

Join World Class Programs on a dazzling, educational, and worldly experience with the Western Civilization: Greek Isles & Southern Italy Program! Our unique Experiential Learning model is designed for high schoolers of all academic backgrounds, and our staff is more than ready to help you on your journey through the Mediterranean. Our courses are completely customizable and include Western Philosophy, Classical History & Archaeology, Fine Art and Drawing, Digital Photography, Western Religion & Traditions, and Mediterranean Cuisine. Along with academic life, students learn lifelong skills in independent student accommodations within walking distance of many famous landmarks, as well as on a week-long cruise! For us, studying abroad isn't about "visiting" the Greek Isles or southern Italy, but experiencing the Mediterranean world like a real local.

ISSOS International

0

0

ISSOS Summer School in Cambridge

ISSOS International Summer Schools provide inspiring and exciting 3-week residential summer programs for 16 to 18-year-olds from all over the world at one of the world-renowned university campuses in Cambridge. This program ensures a truly international experience with the number of students from one nationality being limited to 10%, and students attend from over 80 nationalities every summer. Courses include English Language, Creative Writing, Theatre, Youth Leadership, Journalism/Broadcasting, Golf, Business and Entrepreneurship, Art, IB preparation courses, and many more. Our next session runs from 8 July – 29 July 2026.

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Go Abroad China Ltd.

9.84

111

GAC Chinese Language Immersion Program

Master Mandarin in China with Go Abroad China's 22-year legacy. We offer four program types tailored to your goals: -University Program – Study at top partners like SJTU, Peking University, and BLCU with expert-led classes and accredited credits. -Small Group Program – Learn in intimate classes of 10-15 students with flexible durations and Business Chinese tracks. -Homestay Program – Achieve authentic fluency through daily life with a vetted local family, combined with formal instruction. -High School Program – Safe, supervised cultural immersion for ages 13-18 with interactive classes, peer exchanges, and workshops. All levels welcome—beginner to advanced. Choose one week to a full academic year, add one-on-one tutoring or HSK prep, and earn transferable credits. Our all-inclusive support covers visa, housing, airport pickup, cultural activities, and 24/7 assistance. Learn more than a language—gain a global perspective.

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Centro MundoLengua

8.76

42

AP® Spanish Summer Program in Spain

Are you prepared to be the best in AP® Spanish? If so, our AP® Spanish Summer Program is perfect for you! This is the only AP® Spanish Program available in Spain, offering you a unique course. Where better to study Spanish than in Spain itself? Experience the language and culture firsthand in an unparalleled setting. Designed to prepare high school students to excel in AP® Spanish Language or Literature courses and exams, this program offers a comprehensive Spanish immersion experience in the colorful and sunny city of Seville in southern Spain. Study abroad with us and live with a host family for an authentic Spanish immersion experience. This summer adventure is packed with sports, cultural activities, and tours that will create unforgettable memories. Can you envision your next summer with us? Enroll now and make it happen! Starting Dates Seville | June 14th & June 28th, 2026 (Language or Literature) An extended Spanish Language and Culture 3-week program is available. AP® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this product.

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Smart Schools International

9.57

7

Your Online Pathway to Global Education

Smart Schools International (SSI) offers students around the world the opportunity to earn an accredited U.S. high school diploma entirely online. Designed for global learners, SSI provides a flexible, self-paced academic experience that allows students to complete U.S. coursework from their home country while continuing their local studies—no visas, travel, or relocation required. Through our online learning environment, students engage with certified U.S. teachers, receive personalized academic support, and develop the skills needed for university preparation and future careers. SSI serves a diverse student community representing more than 45 countries, creating a truly global classroom experience. Whether students are seeking a full U.S. diploma, a dual-diploma pathway, or supplemental online courses to strengthen academic readiness, Smart Schools International offers an accessible and affordable pathway to a world-class American education. SSI makes high-quality learning possible from anywhere in the world.

Expanish

9.2

5

Young Adults Summer Program in Barcelona

Discover the magic of Barcelona this summer with Expanish! Our Young Adults Spanish Immersion Program invites students aged 16-20 to one of Europe's most iconic cities for a unique blend of language learning, cultural exploration, and personal growth. Whether you choose to stay with a local host family or in a student residence, this program offers an unforgettable opportunity to improve your Spanish, make friends from around the world, and experience life like a local. Ages 16-20 | 1-4 Weeks | July Start Dates Choose Your Experience: Day Program Spanish classes + activities Ideal for locals or families in the city Overnight Homestay: Live with a local family Full cultural immersion Overnight Residence: Stay with fellow students Great for independence & community

Nacel International

10

1

High School Exchange in Canada - Short & Long Term

Study in a Canadian high school and live with a host family for real immersion in English, organized by Nacel Educational Travel. For students aged 14 to 17, choose a short stay (about 4 to 16 weeks), a semester (fall or spring), or a full academic year (August to June). Placements are in public or private schools depending on your option. Program locations include Manitoba (Winnipeg), British Columbia (Kelowna), Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan. Students attend an arrival orientation to understand the program and connect with other international participants. Select either a credit track (to earn school credits) or a non-credit cultural exchange track.

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Putney Student Travel

9.57

7

Service & Community Immersion in Costa Rica

Live and volunteer in a rural Costa Rican community on this immersive high school service program. Begin at a rainforest ecolodge near Lake Arenal, where you learn about sustainability, explore jungle trails, and prepare for your project work. Settle into your host community to partner with local residents on meaningful construction and agricultural initiatives, practicing Spanish as you cook meals, play fútbol, and join local events. Cap your journey on the Pacific coast, where you celebrate your accomplishments while rafting, hiking, snorkeling, or surfing in warm tropical waters.

Oui-Connect

10

1

Reciprocal High School Exchange: Host and Be Hosted

Participants aged 13-17 will host a Spanish, French, Italian, or German student for three weeks, followed by their own three-week stay abroad with the same exchange student’s family. This can take place any time between June and August. The Reciprocal Exchange is a uniquely shared experience. Both participants embark on the same adventure, creating a strong and lasting bond that enhances their language-learning journey. Participants share not just a cultural exchange but a deep friendship. It’s the best of both worlds—combining all the benefits of hosting with the excitement of going abroad. Plus, the financial advantage of this program makes it even more attractive due to its reciprocity. Participants are carefully matched based on age, gender, and shared interests.

Edu-inter International French School in Quebec City

1

1

French Summer School for Teenagers in Quebec City

The summer French immersion school for teenagers has been offered every summer since 2005 by Edu-inter. Through this summer camp, hundreds of teenagers live and learn French in Quebec City. This highly international program welcomes students from more than 20 countries. Students attend French classes in the morning, from 8:30am to 11:45am. Classes are organized into seven levels, and help students develop all four communication skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will also study grammar and phonetics. In the afternoons, students can select from a wide variety of programs. These options are pre-selected on a week-by-week basis. Multi-activity and multi-sports programs are operated directly by the Edu-inter team. These programs offer students fun and varied activities every afternoon. Art programs and sport programs are mostly offered in collaboration with local partners and provide students with opportunities to mix with local teenagers. Cultural activities include excursions to Montreal to visit La Ronde theme park and the Montreal Jazz Festival, LE Cirque du Soleil, the Festival de Québec, and whale-watching at Tadoussac.

A Guide to Summer Exchange Programs for High School Students

Popular Places for Summer Exchange Programs

Choosing to participate in a high school summer exchange program might be a no brainer, where to go however, is a more challenging decision. With the world at your feet, think carefully about how your choice impacts your aims for the program, and, of course, what’s on offer in your most lusted location. 

England tops the charts for European adventures. While Hogwarts isn’t accepting new admissions right now, the awe-inspiring architectural sights of London Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral contrasted with the incredible landscapes of the Lake and Peak districts should offer you a fair range of things to wonder at. Plus, who wouldn’t want to try authentic fish and chips and ride the tube?! 

Ireland is a world away from London’s bustling Soho streets without actually being very far at all. Spend your weekends exploring the never-ending coastline along the cliffs of Moher and getting acquainted with the super friendly locals — if you can decipher their accent that is! Some programs even boast beautiful beaches nearby where you could swim, paddle, and surf to your heart’s delight. 

Spain — flamenco and tapas, anyone?! This sunny country offers stunning cathedrals and castillos in a laid-back culture. With opportunities to see World Heritage Sights like the Olympic Harbour and the Picasso Museum, you’re a long way from reading dusty old textbooks. Not to mention opportunities to practice Spanish, one of the most spoken languages in the world.   

France is also another great alternative to the English speaking options — with better weather and the opportunity to speak French too. Sporting pristine beaches, sight-filled cities, and cuisine to tickle any taste-buds, you shouldn’t struggle to find something to please you here.

Latest Program Reviews

Amazing Experience and hard to leave.

February 14, 2026by: Aylin Nolan - Germany

Program: High School Exchange in Canada - Short & Long Term

10

“Thank you Lisa for everything. I am currently at my layover in Toronto and I am leaving for Germany in an hour. Thank you for the amazing time in Canada and all the organization. I really enjoyed my trip here and i am so sad to leave. But at least i have these amazing memories and a lot of new connections to people from all over the world. That all would not have been possible without you and i am so grateful for you and that you pour your whole heart into the kids experiences in Canada. Thank you so much!!” Aylin - Germany

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