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EF Gap Year
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EF Gap Year

8.62 (54)Verified14 Programs

Why choose EF Gap Year?

EF Gap Year has been opening doors to international education since 1965. Driven by their mission, "Opening the world through education", the organization continues to send millions of people all over the globe to have life-changing experiences. EF prepares students through their gap year programs for success in this constantly changing globalized world. With over 50,000 staff members, student...

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EF Gap Year Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

8.62

Total Reviews

54
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The Key to a New Beginning

by: Alyssa Galdamez - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple Destinations
9

Being part of the first ever Voyager semester in Fall 2023 was an experience I was unprepared for, and the best decision I could’ve ever made. Little did I know that by embarking on this endeavor, I would unlock a part of myself that I didn’t know existed until then. My semester with EF Gap Year taught me self-love, self discovery, and the importance of being uniquely myself. Never did I think it was possible to be able to afford this trip of a lifetime, but I was left with so much satisfaction and so much pride that I had set this goal and I achieved it. This semester taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to and no goal is too big or too impossible. I flew to the other side of the world by myself and saw glowing blue oceans in Thailand that I never thought I’d be able to witness in my lifetime. I learn pieces of languages from each country I spent time in. I connected with people I would’ve never met without this experience and found with locals who had so much passion for their homeland and wanted to share it with me. Was I prepared for this transformation and self growth? No, and only because it was more than I could ever ask for. To anyone who is scared to take such a leap of faith, do it anyway. I haven’t met one person who regretted doing this for themselves, or thought it was a waste of time or money. Dream big, and you will reach the stars.

National Park in ThailandFamous bamboo forest in JapanTemple in Bangkok

An unforgettable experience worth repeating!

by: Kelsi Schneider - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Year: Curated 23-Week Program Multiple Destinations
9

If I were to do my gap year abroad again, I would undoubtedly choose EF Gap Year again. Why? Because they truly care. From the moment I started my journey with EF, it was evident that their staff goes above and beyond to ensure every participant has a meaningful and fulfilling experience. A standout moment for me was during my internship placement. As a recent college graduate, I felt my initial placement didn’t align with the skills and value I knew I could bring to a company. Sensing my frustration, one of the program leaders took the time to meet with me over lunch. She genuinely listened to my concerns, got to know me on a personal and professional level, and worked with me to make sure my goals were reflected in my experience. This level of care and attention left a lasting impression on me. Beyond the incredible support from the EF team, the bonds I formed with people during my gap year are ones I’ll treasure for a lifetime. Whether it was fellow participants, locals I met during my travels, or the EF staff themselves, the connections I made continue to enrich my life in ways I never expected. EF Gap Year is more than just a program—it’s a life-changing experience led by people who genuinely want you to succeed and grow. I couldn’t recommend it more for anyone considering a gap year.

The best 10 weeks of my life!!

by: Greta Foss - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple Destinations
10

I got to experience the most amazing places and make so many incredible memories with some of my newest and greatest friends in the world! My tour director and SLC were amazing and really helped me to have the most incredible trip possible. I’m hoping to some day go on a trip similar!

Me and a few of my closest friends that I met on the trip in front of the eiffel tower.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Elizabeth Searls

Interviewed in 2022

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I was inspired to work for EF Gap Year because of their incredible reputation, expertise and ingenuity on creating meaningful cultural exchange experiences for young people. I was also drawn to EF Gap Year because they are working to break down the stigma associated with the term "Gap Year" and encourage students to follow their own path, even if that is deviating from societal expectations of what a structured "education" should look like. This is their year. I love how supportive EF is of that mission.

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Rebecca Barr

Interviewed in 2022

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I found myself really drawn to the way EF lives its mission of "Opening the World through Education.” My first trip outside the US was actually a 2-week EF trip to Italy with my school when I was 12 years old, and that trip completely opened my eyes to the world around me.

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Caoimhe Flood

Participated in 2023

Alumni

I have always loved to travel and this opportunity gave me the chance to explore places I have never been before. I also wanted to travel while I was young because I might never get the opportunity to do this again in the future. EF also intrigues me, I love the places they go and what they do.

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Awards

Check out awards and recognitions EF Gap Year has received

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Gap Year AbroadTop Rated Provider 2023 - Notable MentionInnovation in Marketing & Digital Media 2023 FinalistTop Rated Gap Year Provider 2022