EF Gap Year - The Global Gap Year
Program Overview
Spend a full academic year abroad—24 weeks of cultural immersion, travel, and personal growth. Begin with an adventurous semester exploring diverse destinations, then spend a second semester deepening your experience at a language campus.
In Semester 1, choose one of EF’s curated 12-week multi-destination programs—European Horizons, East Asian Odyssey, Spanish in Motion, or The Globetrotter—and explore several countries, lifestyles, and cultures. Along the way, you’ll pick up local language basics, join hands-on cultural experiences, and broaden your worldview while moving between vibrant cities.
In Semester 2, settle in at one of EF’s 11 international language campuses—cities like Tokyo, Seoul, Rome, Barcelona, Paris, or Nice. Live locally, make deeper connections, and gain practical skills.
Throughout your Year, you’ll live in EF student residences or homestays, travel with your cohort, enjoy weekly cultural activities and weekend excursions, and receive 24/7 support. Flights, housing, local language basics, and optional college credits are included. With global perspective, new challenges, and unforgettable experiences, The Gap Year is more than travel—it’s a transformation.
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Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- During College
- Post High School
- After College
- Adventure Travel
- Culinary
- Experiential Learning
- Language Immersion
- Self-Discovery
- Spanish
- Study Abroad
- American
Updated May 20, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Tamarindo, Costa Rica
- Nice, France
- Paris, France
- Berlin, Germany
- Munich, Germany
- Rome, Italy
- Tokyo, Japan
- Seoul, South Korea
- Singapore City, Singapore
- Barcelona, Spain
- Malaga, 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)
- University 5th Year or More
- 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
- During College
- Post High School
- After College
Starts At
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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. On the Global Gap Year, the real lessons happen out in the world: sharing tapas in Spain, surfing in Costa Rica, exploring ancient ruins in Rome, or experiencing the neon buzz of Tokyo and the traditions of Kyoto. 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?
Our cohorts are made up of students ages 18–22 who have graduated high school and are ready for their next adventure. Participants come from across all 50 states, bringing diverse perspectives and backgrounds that make each group dynamic, supportive, and inspiring.
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.
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
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