EF Gap Year - European Horizons
Program Overview
Spend 12 inspiring weeks exploring Barcelona, Rome, and Paris—three of Europe’s most iconic cities. This immersive semester blends cultural discovery, local language learning, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures with a supportive travel community.
In Barcelona (Weeks 1–4), learn conversational Spanish and practice over tapas, flamenco nights, and a day trip to Costa Brava.
In Rome (Weeks 5–8), pick up Italian phrases while exploring ancient ruins, making pasta and gelato with chefs, and visiting Pompeii.
In Paris (Weeks 9–12), build confidence in French while admiring art at the Louvre, tasting pastries, strolling Montmartre, and diving into fashion and design.
Throughout your journey, you’ll live in EF student residences, travel with your cohort, and join weekly cultural activities and weekend excursions. With included flights, accommodations, EF’s global support, and optional college credit, European Horizons is more than study abroad—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and experience Europe like never before.
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Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- Post High School
- During College
- After College
- Art
- Experiential Learning
- Language Immersion
- Self-Discovery
- Study Abroad
- American
Updated May 20, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Paris, France
- Rome, Italy
- Barcelona, Spain
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- 2026, 2027, 2028
Eligible Nationalities
- American
- This Program is also open to Group
Education Levels & Language
- Education
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- High School Senior (4th Year)
- High School 5th Year or More
- High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
- Some college credit, no degree
- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
Accommodation Options
- Dormitory
- Group living
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18-25
Duration
- Post High School
- During College
- After College
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about EF Education First.
What's Included?
The program fee for EF Gap Year programs includes all flights (including to and from your home city), on-the-ground transportation, accommodations, meals, activities, excursions, mentorship, and global support.
How academic are EF Gap Year Programs?
EF Gap Year programs aren’t about sitting in classrooms—they’re about learning by living. You’ll pick up a new language at EF campuses, but the real lessons happen out in the world: sharing tapas in Barcelona, exploring ancient ruins in Rome, or cruising the Seine in Paris. With cultural immersion, global travel, and exclusive EF experiences, you’ll build confidence, independence, and a true international perspective.
What demographic makes up a cohort?
You’ll be part of a group of 18–22 year-olds from all across the U.S., all recent high school grads or college students looking for adventure. Every cohort is a mix of personalities and backgrounds, which makes the experience even more fun and connected.
How much spending money should I bring?
Spending money varies by destination and lifestyle, but most students budget for snacks, shopping, and personal travel. Since housing, tuition, and activities are included, your extra funds go toward exploring, souvenirs, and experiences that make your gap year unforgettable.
Are there payment plans available?
Yes — EF offers flexible payment plans to make your experience more affordable and easier to manage. You don’t have to pay the full amount upfront. After paying the enroll fee, you can choose to pay in installments over time, with the final balance due 60 days before your program starts. Many students and families find this helpful for budgeting and planning ahead.
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