Question 1

intro

Accepted Answer

The countries of Western Europe feature an all-around global vibe utilizing only the finest ingredients to create modern cities, an artistic culture, and dining to die for. Though more expensive than most alternative high school program destinations, students who choose Western Europe will get what they pay for. Whether adamant about language learning, anxious to embark on a European adventure, or seeking inspiring cultural immersion, high school programs in Western Europe are sure to provide students with the experience of a lifetime.

Question 2

Best Countries for Teens

Accepted Answer

With 17 countries to choose from and a wide array of programs available, students won&rsquo;t have any trouble finding the perfect high school program in Western Europe.
France. There is a reason France holds the title as the world&rsquo;s top tourist destination, it has earned it! With a collection of world class art second to none, a wide variety of regional cuisines and specialty dishes, and an art de vivre (art to living), high school programs in France will leave students planning their return trip before their first week even ends.
Italy. It won&rsquo;t take high schoolers very long in Italy to conclude that Italians do in fact live la bella vita (the beautiful life). Whether fashion, food, history, art, or natural exploration take precedent, high school programs in Italy will provide students with everything they are looking for and more.
Spain. Students with a passion for the Spanish language who are seeking a more contemporary Western experience abroad will thrive among the passionate people of Spain. The informal atmosphere, flavorful Spanish food, and musical heart and soul of Spain will captivate high school students who choose Spain for their study abroad experience.

Question 3

Popular Program Types

Accepted Answer

With a range of academics, languages, and cultural activities available, students have a number of options to choose from when participating in high school programs in Western Europe.
Exploration Programs are common throughout Europe, and generally feature multiple destinations, last anywhere from two to eight weeks, and entail less of emphasis on academics and more of a focus on adventure. These programs are perfect for students seeking to fill their short trip abroad with as many experiences as possible.
Language Learning. High school programs in Western Europe focused primarily on language acquisition generally require students to spend a large number of hours in the classroom, but likewise, a good amount of time will be specifically set aside for immersion activities. The majority of language courses will be taken alongside other international students, but immersion activities will put students face to face with locals in various environments and situations.
Student Exchange. The most time-intensive and academically challenging option for high school programs in Western Europe are full, long-term immersion experiences that give students the opportunity to attend local schools in their chosen country. Either through direct-enrollment or participation in a student exchange program, students will have the opportunity to learn alongside locals and typically live with a local host family.

Question 4

Anticipated Costs

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, the cost of living in Western European will be higher than in the United States. With such iconic metropolitan destinations, like Rome and London, high school students should likewise expect the cost of living in larger cities to be even higher still. For example, day-to-day spending in Florence will cost much more than life in smaller, more rural towns, which may therefore be more appropriate for students on a stricter budget. Luckily, fundraising is always a possibility and is increasingly common, not to mention scholarships are often available for extended high school study abroad programs.

Question 5

Accommodations & Visas

Accepted Answer

The most popular and readily available form of accommodation in Western Europe is homestays. Not only is living with a host family safe, supervised, and comforting, it also provides incomparable opportunities for immersion and language learning. Occasionally, alternative housing will be available for students who favor dorm life, and sometimes hotel accommodation is also utilized. No matter where students choose to stay, high school program coordinators are dedicated to student safety, so parents of can rest easy while their student is abroad (or as easy as possible).

For nearly all high school programs in Western Europe, the only documents necessary for students to obtain will be a passport valid for three to six months beyond their stay and a return ticket home. In the rare case of programs that last beyond 90 days, additional visas warranting prior planning may be required. If participating in an extended program or study abroad program, students should always check with their program provider and embassy to ensure proper documentation is obtained. Find all of the embassy information you need at GoAbroad&rsquo;s Embassy Directory.

Question 6

GoAbroad's Inside Scoop

Accepted Answer

Cost. Though the higher cost comes with high rewards, students on a shoestring budget need to be aware of the reality of costs that will be incurred during high school programs in Western Europe. Financial restrictions should not stop ambitious students from pursuing their ideal program, however; instead this challenge should fuel students to complete thorough research and choose an appropriate destination for their budget or spend time fundraising and applying for scholarships.
Artful Living. If travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer, students passionate about the finer things in life will find no better destination for programs abroad than Western Europe. With deep historical context, top-notch cuisine, and an endless collection of inspiring art, students will learn the true value of travel during high school programs in Western Europe, opening themselves up to new experiences and ideas.
Additional Travel. One of the biggest benefits of high school programs in Western Europe as a whole is the close proximity to surrounding countries. No matter which European destination students choose, they will be in a prime location for additional exploration leading up to, during, or following their program.
Western Europe has a little something for everyone, no matter if you want to explore castles or scour the city streets for the best cafes.