



EF Gap Year
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...
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, students are ensured of unparalleled international support 24/7. The organization believes that traveling is a pathway to understanding and self-discovery. Students will experience the world while discovering their passion through the variety of programs offered.
EF Gap Year Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
The Key to a New Beginning
by: Alyssa Galdamez - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple DestinationsBeing 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.



An unforgettable experience worth repeating!
by: Kelsi Schneider - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Year: Curated 23-Week Program Multiple DestinationsIf 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 DestinationsI 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!
EF Gap Year Programs
Browse programs you might like

Embark on a unique global experience in 10 weeks. An EF Gap Semester is perfect for students who want to live in different parts of the world whi...

Experience the world and discover your passions with EF Gap Year. Visit 10+ countries, build real-world skills, make lifelong memories, and retur...

Explore Europe, ignite your passions, and discover your path forward. The Pathfinder is perfect for hands-on learners looking to dip their toes i...

Get hands-on experience with conservation and sustainability and make a true impact across Latin America. Work with locals on global challenges a...

Are you looking for an adventure? The Voyager allows you to explore the natural wonders of Australia and experience its lush environments. Get yo...

Empower yourself to shape your narrative and drive meaningful change on an intercontinental expedition spanning Colorado, Costa Rica, Panama, and...
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Frequently Asked Questions
Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Elizabeth Searls
Interviewed in 2022
Elizabeth is a travel and cultural exchange enthusiast who loves helping young people have these experiences! She studied anthropology in college, liv...

Elizabeth Searls
Interviewed in 2022
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.

Rebecca Barr
Interviewed in 2022
Rebecca Barr is the Program Manager at EF Gap Year. Since taking her own gap year in Turkey back in the day, she has been passionate about helping oth...

Rebecca Barr
Interviewed in 2022
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.

Caoimhe Flood
Participated in 2023
Caoimhe Flood is from Boston Massachusetts. She went to three years of college outside of Boston before doing this trip. She has traveled many times t...

Caoimhe Flood
Participated in 2023
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.
Awards
Check out awards and recognitions EF Gap Year has received





