GoAbroad

This epic summer journey traces the past 500 years of modern history as we travel through Rome, Florence, Paris, Switzerland, and Munich. From philosophers to revolutionaries, from soldiers to spies—we follow in the footsteps of the people who shaped our world. We begin our journey of Western civilization in the ‘Eternal City’: Rome. With visits to the Colosseum and the ruins of the Forum, we wander through time and discuss the foundations of the West. in Florence, we grapple with the events and ideas of the Reformation, the ravages of the Black Plague, and the glorification of human ingenuity and creativity. As you wander through the world-famous Uffizi, Il Duomo, and the Accademia, we have a chance to revel in the potential of the human spirit. In Paris, we debate the nature of humanity and the structure of civilization. From visits to the Musée du Louvre, the D’Orsay and the Pompidou, we save the Eiffel Tower climb for last. After a rest and a hike in the Swiss Alps, we examine the details of the rise of Nazi Germany and trace the impact of the National Socialist movement on both the European continent and the rest of the world in Munich.

Program Highlights

Bike rides through the gardens at the Palace of Versailles.

Climbing the Eiffel Tower for golden hour photos before descending in time for the epic strobe light show where the entire tower explodes in flashing light.

Roasting marshmallows and making true Canadian S'mores over an open fire in the mountains of the Swiss Alps after a day hike to a summit where the air is the freshest and the view is unparalleled.

A sunrise over the Roman Colosseum during our morning workout in the ruins of the Roman Forum. Then tossing coins for good luck into the historical Trevi Fountain at the base of the Spanish Steps.

Standing at the base of the greatest achievement in art and science history, Michelangelo's statue of David.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Paris, France
  • Munich, Germany
  • Florence, Italy
  • Rome, Italy
  • Bern, Switzerland
Availability
Year(s) Offered: 2027Terms Available:
  • Summer
Age Requirement: 14-17
Types & Subjects
Subjects & Courses:
  • Art History
  • History
  • Social Sciences
Focus Areas:
  • Experiential Learning
  • Language Immersion
  • Outdoor Education
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Mar 25, 2026

Awards

Notable Mention 2021 - High School Abroad

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Paris, France
  • Munich, Germany
  • Florence, Italy
  • Rome, Italy
  • Bern, Switzerland

Types and Subjects

  • Subjects & Courses
  • Art History
  • History
  • Social Sciences
  • Focus Areas
  • Experiential Learning
  • Language Immersion
  • Outdoor Education

Availability

Years Offered: 2027

Terms Available:
  • Summer
Duration:
  • Summer

Age Requirement

14-17

Guidelines

All Nationalities

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
  • Group Meals
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • In-Country Transportation To & From Project
  • International Airfare
  • Required Equipment
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • Academic Advising
  • Assistance Booking Travel
  • Course Materials
  • Academic Credit
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Emergency Support

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Guest House
  • Other

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • High School Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • High School Junior (3rd Year)

Application Procedures

  • Written Application
  • Letters of Reference
  • Phone/Video Interview
  • Transcript
  • Resume

Frequently Asked Questions

Are MEI credits reviewed on university applications?

  • MEI courses are accredited by the Ministry of Education in Ontario, Canada, and are recognized by universities across Canada as well as internationally. 
  • Our alumni have found that detailing their experiences in our programs on their university applications has been advantageous because universities consider applicants holistically, and showcasing our accredited courses has often enhanced their applications.

Am I able to graduate with MEI?

  • Yes, students who reside outside of Ontario can graduate with MEI Academy if they meet the Ontario Ministry of Education graduation criteria. 
  • Please contact MEI Academy for requirements. 
  • If you live outside of Canada, international student fees may apply.

What are your admission requirements?

  • Students require a minimum mark of 78% to 80% (depending on the program) in the courses relevant to the program. 
  • Your acceptance into the program is based on past academic performance, interview (for semester students), self-evaluation, and teacher references (if required).

How do students apply for a program?

  • Applying to an MEI program is easy and automated through our website. 
  • Simply go to the Apply Now section of the website, complete the application form, and submit a deposit and registration fee. 
  • You can pay by credit card, etransfer or by cheque. 
  • You will automatically receive an email outlining the next steps as soon as the payment is processed.

Can a student make travel plans with family after the travel portio

  • Yes, students can make travel plans with family after the travel portion of the program. 
  • For students who make travel arrangements to stay overseas after the travel portion of the program ends, please note that their final exam takes place after the travel is completed.
  • Students must have access to wifi and quiet space and time to complete their online classes, prepare and present their Independent Study.

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MEI Academy World High School

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Ready to Learn More?

This epic summer journey traces the past 500 years of modern history as we travel through Rome, Florence, Paris, Switzerland, and Munich. From philosophers to revolutionaries, from soldiers to spies—we follow in the footsteps of the people who shaped our world. We begin our journey of Western civilization in the ‘Eternal City’: Rome. With visits to the Colosseum and the ruins of the Forum, we wander through time and discuss the foundations of the West. in Florence, we grapple with the events and ideas of the Reformation, the ravages of the Black Plague, and the glorification of human ingenuity and creativity. As you wander through the world-famous Uffizi, Il Duomo, and the Accademia, we have a chance to revel in the potential of the human spirit. In Paris, we debate the nature of humanity...

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