Foreign Language Study Abroad Programs

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611 Foreign Language Study Abroad Programs
CIEE College Study Abroad
4.52
82
Your Open Campus Block program in Berlin lasts 6, 12, or 18 weeks and is designed to be completely customizable. You will enroll in CIEE courses and online courses taught through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while imme
See All 177 ProgramsAdelante Abroad
4.63
8
Seville is one of the most loved destinations among tourists. Enjoy a semester with Adelante Abroad in one of southern Spain's most popular Andalusian cities! In our Semester Study Abroad in Seville Program, students will develop their Spanish language skills while earning college credit in classes
See All 2 ProgramsEF Education First
3.5
2
Step beyond the classroom and into the world with EF Language Abroad. Our immersive programs combine academic excellence with life-changing cultural experiences in 11 stunning global destinations across 8 countries and 7 languages. Whether you’re a high school student eager to explore the world, a c
Arcos Learning Abroad
4.78
172
Study abroad in the charming colonial city of Oaxaca, Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Oaxaca’s extensive colonial architecture and deeply-rooted indigenous cultures make it a unique and fascinating destination. Spanish classes are offered for all levels and students can choose from a variety o
See All 3 ProgramsAFS-USA
0
0
Explore German culture and improve your language skills during this two-week summer program in Germany! During this program, you’ll live together with participants from all over the world at the “Jugendherberge Mannheim” youth hostel in Mannheim, one of the country’s most exciting and historic citie
AIFS Abroad
4.44
382
Study abroad in Barcelona, Spain with AIFS Abroad and earn college credit in one of Europe’s most popular student cities. With semester, summer, January Term, May Term and academic year options, you can study at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), or LCI Barcelon
See All 24 ProgramsIES Abroad
4.33
15
Known for taking the lead in the development of eco-friendly technologies and architecture, Freiburg attracts top researchers and environmental organizations from around the world. This English-taught program allows you to explore topics in disciplines like Environmental Studies, Forest Ecology, and
See All 17 ProgramsSemester at Sea
5
1
Mauritius boasts plenty of wonderful features—breathtaking beaches, friendly locals & rich resources. Discover this island nation and other countries by joining our unique study program. Make the world YOUR campus & set sail on our floating university! Semester at Sea is a global journey that bring
See All 2 ProgramsUniversity Studies Abroad Consortium
4.52
103
The USAC program is based at the University of Alicante, which has a student population of 30,000 and offers two diverse academic areas: Intensive Language and Spanish and European Studies. Have the opportunity to study the Spanish language and the complexities of Spanish and contemporary European s
See All 26 ProgramsJohn Cabot University
4.2
368
Imagine spending a year, semester, or summer studying in the heart of Rome, while earning academic credit, building your resume, and experiencing Italy beyond the classroom. Located in Rome’s historic center, John Cabot University offers a truly international study abroad experience where you’ll l
See All 3 ProgramsCollege Year in Athens
4.4
350
CYA (College Year in Athens) has been offering study abroad programs in various academic disciplines for over 60 years. Athens, a European capital, is rich in history and a contemporary hub for art, international business, and relations and debate on economic, political, and migration issues. With
IFSA, Institute for Study Abroad
4.48
23
Academic excellence in one of Europe's greenest cities! With a sterling reputation for academic excellence that stretches back to 1583, the University of Edinburgh is also looking to the future. Witness the university’s Edinburgh Futures Institute, a thought lab focused on global challenges. (Hint:
See All 15 ProgramsGo Abroad China Ltd.
4.73
176
Launch your global career with Go Abroad China's Paid Internship Program. Since 2003, we have connected over 4,000 international students and professionals from 50+ countries to high-impact, paid positions across China's leading economic hubs. Our exclusive network guarantees access to 2,000+ intern
See All 7 ProgramsCEA
4.37
168
Study abroad in Rome and taste la dolce vita—the sweet life. Imagine studying art history as you gaze up at the Sistine Chapel, or learning theology just a few blocks from the Vatican. Life in the Eternal City is an experience of a lifetime! You take classes at the centrally located CEA CAPA Rom
See All 8 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
4.67
723
Live and study in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Maximo Nivel offers the most intensive and professional Spanish Immersion program in Latin America. Learn Spanish on-site across 4 modern campuses in 3 of the most beautiful countries, or join online from anywhere in the world! Led by an experien
See All 3 ProgramsWorldStrides
4.56
57
Study in Seoul at Korea University, one of South Korea’s most prestigious private institutions, while experiencing the energy of one of the world’s most dynamic capitals. Take English-taught courses on Korea University’s impressive campus and connect with local culture through a Korean student buddy
See All 11 ProgramsWebster University Athens
4.4
111
Odyssey in Athens is a study abroad program offered through Webster University Athens. Located in the center of Athens, in the historic section of the Plaka area—right below the Acropolis, this campus is a perfect location for formal study and study abroad. Students from all over the US with a w
Siena Italian Studies Program
4.63
54
Participants are immersed in the Italian language and culture during a semester, academic year, or summer program. Courses include Anthropology, Art History, Cinema, Medieval History, Sociolinguistics, History of Italian Cooking, Business, and Creative Arts. Students live with local host families
Academic Programs International
4.58
12
As a fashion, art, business, and technology hub, London is the perfect city to get the courses and experiences you need. Participate in an internship while taking international relations courses at the University of Westminster. Rub shoulders with elite students from around the world at the Lond
See All 7 ProgramsCGEE
4.28
40
Join this program designed specifically for Social Work students. The curriculum is approved by the Council on Social Work Education, and participants have the opportunity to: - Learn directly from social work practitioners, social welfare policymakers, and community leaders - Take part in fieldwor
See All 2 ProgramsHow to Study Foreign Languages Abroad
Why
No matter where you come from or what you plan on doing with your life, the ability to communicate with others is the most important skill one can possess. Without simple communication, no progress would ever be made. Studying a foreign language abroad takes this concept one step further, as students who choose to go abroad will not only learn the language, but they will also learn the culture and people that surround a specific language. The skills and global perspective gained from this type of experience will turn you into a competitive candidate for better jobs, a more well-rounded student, and a more conscious and responsible global citizen.
Studying a foreign language in a classroom filled with people just like you is one of the most boring and unproductive ways to learn a new language. You can sit in a Spanish class all day long staring at a whiteboard covered in ser versus estar rules, or you can head to a different country and learn these rules simply by talking with locals. Studying a foreign language abroad is the only way to truly learn a language, so if you are going put the time in, why not do it the right (and fun) way?
Locations
The best place to start when choosing a location to study a foreign language abroad in is to first decide which language you want to learn; then choosing which country can best support the specific dialect and finally honing in on a city within that country, will be a piece of cake. Many students make the unfortunate error of automatically thinking that the best and only place to learn French in France, while you can actually study French in anywhere from Haiti to Canada to Madagascar. Oftentimes, by selecting a less obvious place to study a foreign language abroad, you will have a much richer cultural experience and ultimately learn the language better.
The most popular languages to study abroad include Spanish, Mandarin, French, and Arabic, so naturally the most popular locations to study foreign languages abroad include Madrid, Beijing, Paris, and Cairo. The benefit of being in a large city is that students will have the opportunity to be exposed to all types of people and languages, and ultimately obtain a very global experience.
If after these considerations you are still struggling to narrow down your search to one location, think about what you are looking to gain besides just language skills. How do you ultimately want to use the language you will be studying for? If you are a musician and want to learn German to better understand your sheet music, pick a city like Vienna, which has a bustling music scene, so the German you learn will not be out of context for your goals. There is nothing worse than going abroad to learn a foreign language and then coming home and forgetting the language within six months because you are not using it in the way you thought you would.
Program Options
There are many routes you can take to studying a foreign language abroad, and fortunately there is no right or wrong way (except, of course, by studying in a country that only speaks your native language). Once you have selected the language and region you want to become immersed in, think about the academic setting that will be best for you to really strengthen your language skills.
The most popular option for language study abroad is at a university. In today’s society, there are thousands of programs all over the world that enroll students in a large university with a great reputation and options for all levels of language learners, so finding a fitting university setting for you will not be challenging. While each university is different, most offer the same basic structure, types of classes, and support services. Whether you’re enrolling in only grammar-intensive courses or a mixture of subjects, students will integrate quickly into their universities and have plenty of options.
The university setting is not for everyone, which is why private language schools have also gained a lot of popularity. This type of environment usually focuses on creating fluency as quickly as possible, but many also offer a much more flexible schedule for students than a typical university. Language schools frequently include cultural excursions and other activities to ensure students receive a well-rounded education.
Regardless of the academic setting, there are many courses that language students can take that are not your standard Italian Grammar 101. Region-specific history or literature courses, such as a Jorge Luis Borges poetry class if you are studying Spanish in Argentina, are a great way to learn more about a foreign language as well as about an important author, piece of work, or event for that specific culture. Challenge yourself to take classes that are outside of the language study “box” and will make you learn about your host culture and history. As long as the course is being taught primarily in the language you are trying to learn, you will still become more fluent in the language, regardless of the subject matter.
Benefits & Challenges
Tangible Skills. If you were an employer and had the option to hire one person who could do the job of two, wouldn’t you hire that person? Having a transferable skill like being multilingual is one of the best ways you can ensure a stable future for yourself, as well as form much more meaningful connections with customers, partners, and co-workers.
Multilingual Understanding. Before you shout “duh!” at the screen, there is way more to learning a new language than just being able to speak two languages. By studying a foreign language abroad, you will not only learn a foreign language, but you will also learn more about your native language. You will be strengthening all of your language skills, including verbal and written skills. As the very wise Goethe once said, “Those who know nothing of foreign languages know nothing of their own.”
Studying a foreign language abroad is not easy. Anyone can memorize vocabulary on a flashcard in preparation for a test, but it takes a whole different type of person to be able to understand what someone is saying, remember the proper vocab and grammar, put that vocab and grammar into the proper context, and reply back, all on the spot and in a timely manner. The challenges of learning a language in a real-world setting will force you to really have to interpret and remember the language, so you obtain a much fuller understanding and ultimately create more concrete skills. Study a foreign language abroad and learn how to truly communicate with others!
Popular Providers
Latest Program Reviews
Amazing time in Tanzania!!
October 07, 2026by: Ogy Simeonov - BulgariaI completed the Wildlife Conservation Programme in Tanzania in 2021 and it was honestly an amazing experience that I still remember to this day. Everyone was so kind and helpful, and I learned so much about wildlife and conservation during the programme. The classes in nature were amazing and it was great to be able to learn about wildlife while actually being surrounded by it. The weather was great, the people were lovely, and there was always something new to learn and experience. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I’m really glad I had the opportunity to take part. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves wildlife, nature and travelling.



The best month ever!
October 07, 2026by: Elmar Limas - United StatesI chose AIFS Abroad because of the variety of programs that they offer. I went to Paris, France for a January term to take an Accounting class at the American Business College. The AIFS staff was super helpful with me. Even before departure, they were there for me helping me with my housing options and to coordinate my flights, during my program they invited us to different excursions and to the AIFS office in Paris to know the staff and after the program they were very interested in our feedback and reviews. During my program I stayed with a host family and it was such an amazing thing because i got to experience French culture first-hand while also sharing a little bit about my own culture. The American Business College is a place where students from different cultures and backgrounds share one same perspective on global business with an American point of view, which made everything easier for me. This program had a great impact in my life because it made me get out of my comfort zone and get to know so many people while earning credit towards my degree. I'd recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking to study abroad or intern while getting credits towards their degree. AIFS is very helpful, has so many programs available and a staff who is always willing to make the best for you.
Great fun while learning g
October 05, 2026by: Joanna Walker - United StatesThe teachers were fabulous! Using games mixed with instruction made learning interesting. I especially enjoyed our assignment of going to the high market across from our hotel. We learned how to order what we wanted, and interviewed the proprietor. Ours was a bull fighter before buying his stall in the market! The cultural activities were fun and the hotel where we stayed was very comfortable.
¡Hola Joanna! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! We'll be sure to pass your kind words on to our teaching team. We hope to welcome you back soon to keep learning and exploring together. ¡Un fuerte abrazo!
A Fantastic Experience!
October 04, 2026by: Dana Loncar - United StatesThe Expanish 50+ study abroad program in Malaga was amazing! The instructors were awesome and made the lessons engaging and fun. The cultural activities were really interesting and allowed for an excellent opportunity to learn about and experience the local history and culture. I highly recommend it!
¡Hola, Dana! Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you had such an amazing time on our 50+ study abroad program in Málaga. Thank you for recommending us. That means a lot to our whole team, and we'll be sure to share your kind words with our instructors. We hope to see you back in Málaga soon for another adventure. ¡Un abrazo y hasta pronto!
Lots of Wildlife and Very Kind Community
October 04, 2026by: Sofia Nuri - United StatesThis study abroad experience was truly life changing. I had never been camping before and was a little intimidated, but the instructors and staff were so kind and helpful. I also got the experience of a lifetime on the safaris! I got to see lots of elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras. Would highly highly recommend!
GREAT EXPERIENCE
October 02, 2026by: John Kreit - United StatesProgram: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I spent 4 weeks in Cusco with Maximo Nivel. My level was high-intermediate. The school is outstanding and well organized, and my teachers were excellent. I learned a lot. My home stay went very well, with great food served for breakfast and dinner. I recommend this program for anyone, but I think it is most helpful for those who have at least a basic ability to speak and understand Spanish.
Best experience!
October 02, 2026by: Michaela Forbes - United StatesStudying abroad in Tanzania with SIT was the best decision I’ve ever made. I made so many incredible memories while on safari, staying with my host family and even completing my own wildlife research. It was such an educational and enriching experience. I learned so much about the country, the people, the wildlife as well as myself. Tanzania is still my favorite place I’ve ever traveled!
Transformative, Highly Recommend!
October 02, 2026by: Naturi Scott - United StatesThis program absolutely changed my worldview! Not a day goes by that I don’t think about the immersive experiences and connections that I have as a result of this program. The staff are unbelievably inviting, talented, and caring. They are highly knowledgeable and invested in the learning, development, and wellbeing of students. If you are looking for a unique opportunity to expand your world while gain valuable research experience, this is the program for you.

Loveee
October 02, 2026by: Sanette Monegro - United StatesI honestly loved my time in Seoul. It was an amazing experience and it really opened my eyes to what’s outside of the United States. I was also able to travel to Japan (twice) and Thailand, so I really got to see different cultures.
Once in a lifetime program!
October 01, 2026by: Sydney Gelhorn - United StatesThis program was absolutely incredible. The staff, both the support staff and the teachers, were incredible. They made efforts to connect with each student on a personal level, and I am deeply grateful for at home they worked to make us feel. In what scenario are you doing school work and group projects while in National Parks and Widlife Reserves in Tanzania?! I learned a lot both academically and about myself as a person. So much love for this program!!
A life changing opportunity
October 01, 2026by: Brooke Su - United StatesI had a really impactful experience studying abroad in Tanzania in 2020. The teaching staff were all so valuable, insightful, and friendly, and we as students all felt taken care of during our time there. I learned so much through hands-on experience in the national parks on safari and learning Swahili while staying with my host family. This semester abroad has left a lasting impact on me and I hope to visit Tanzania again in the future.
Great program! Best semester ever!
October 01, 2026by: Bec Griffin - United StatesThis program is amazing for anyone looking for cultural immersion, language immersion, incredible field experiences, and resume building research experience. Class is literally watching lions in the Serengeti.
A great experience
October 01, 2026by: Maddie Krug - United StatesThis experience was an amazing one. I grew so much as a person. Not only did I learn a lot, but the experience was so immersive that learning could be connected to real life examples. During this time I got sick, and the staff were nothing short of amazing. They all came together to help me in whatever way they could. The people, the classes, the country, it was all amazing. I can’t recommend enough to other students.
Everything about this program was amazing!
October 01, 2026by: Joshua Connors - United StatesThere’s not one thing about SIT Tanzania that wasn’t amazing. If you’re looking for an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people, and explore such a unique, incredible country, then this program is for you. From the incredible staff and unforgettable experiences I couldn’t recommend this program enough!
The best thing i have EVER done
October 01, 2026by: Brooke Hermanson - United StatesThis program genuinely changed my life. I’m not joking it really opened my eyes and allowed me to fully immerse myself in a culture extremely different from mine and very far away from home! It also allowed me to develop new communication skills as well as research skills. This is my most favorite thing to talk about and was definitely a huge contributor to what made me stand out when applying to vet school! With all that being said, the staff was extremely supportive and the kindest, brilliant people you will EVER meet. The staff is extremely hard working literally always and are a huge inspiration to me. I could not tell more people to chose this program. Truly once in a lifetime experience.

An awesome adventure!
October 01, 2026by: Austin Koff - United StatesMy semester abroad in Tanzania was life changing! A truly once in a lifetime experience that I truly recommend. The SIT program staff are the kindest most welcoming people you can imagine. Additionally, from game drives in national parks to home stays the cultural immersion and wildlife I was able to learn about and experience was amazing! I truly learned so much and had a wonderful time exploring Tanzania!
So much fun and opportunity!
September 29, 2026by: Laura Zhang - United StatesStudying abroad in Singapore is the best decision I made during my college years. I got to explore my interests and travel to places I've always wanted to go to. I explored Bali, Johor Bahru, Shanghai, Seoul, Jeju, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Phuket, Danang, and Hanoi. Got to try a lot of yummy food and experience various cultures. The Hawker Centers and other food courts have so much variety and new cuisines to try. Singapore is extremely clean, and people there are kind and respectful in public spaces. They are willing to show up around and invite you to their culture. Being apart of a study abroad program was nice because I got to connect with others in the program. I got to attend the program events and learned more about Singapore. For instance, we went to Gardens by the Bay, Cloud Forest, Oceanarium, Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and had group lunches/dinners. I really really enjoyed my time there and would love to go back.
Studying Abroad with CEA Capa
September 29, 2026by: Lauren Zamberlin-Eidelman - United StatesIf you get the chance to study abroad with CEA Capa, you should. Participating in Cal Poly's First Year GO Program, and venturing on my own to Sevilla, Spain, was the best choice I could've made. Before I left, I was nervous, unsure, and had never before left the country on my own. With CEA Capa, everything felt do-able. We were welcomed into the city, housed at a very pleasant residence hall, and got to take classes in a beautiful historic building in the city-center. Studying abroad with CEA Capa gave me the opportunity to see the world, immerse myself in Spanish culture, and build a variety of skills that I will carry with me throughout my life.
This summer changed my life!
September 23, 2026by: Everette Palmer - United StatesI went to Korea University over the summer and it's safe to say it was the best summer yet. WorldStrides was extremely helpful and accommodating throughout the whole process. Their excursions were a lot of fun and gave me the opportunity to meet other students that came with WorldStrides as well. The staff was always available when needed and knew what to do when asked questions. The summer was so much fun, I got to travel all over Seoul and make memories everyday! I cannot recommend this enough!
Best time of my life!
September 22, 2026by: Daisy Sahagun - United StatesProgram: Study Abroad in Greece with CYA (Semester/Academic Year)
Going abroad with CYA was truly a life changing experience for me. I got to immerse myself with the Greek culture and got to visit areas of Greece that I didn't even know existed through field study trips. For example, besides living in Athens, I had the opportunity to visit Northern Greece and see more of Greece's country side. Additionally, through the academics that CYA provides, I was able to take a modern Greek class and even got to learn a little bit of Greek. I will never forget my time with CYA and am grateful for everything it taught me.
Hi Daisy, thanks for sharing your experience with CYA! We are thrilled to hear you felt supported throughout your semester and had a chance to immerse yourself in the culture. We hope you can visit again soon!
Latest Interviews

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The Academy of Tourism Antalya
I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to gain international experience, improve my English, and learn from professionals in the hospitality ind...

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Growing up, I lived in Thailand and practiced tennis, so travel and new cultures always felt natural to me.

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What inspired me to go abroad was not just curiosity, but the need to understand the systems that shape people's lives beyond borders.

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What inspired me to go abroad was all of the different opportunities that my university provides. I believe that spending a semester abroad can be an ...

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Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
I was inspired to go about because it truly is a once in a lifetime experience and we are only this young once, so why not take advantage of that. It ...

Bethel University Global Studies
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StudyInBali
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European Centre for Career Education
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Learn Russian in the European Union
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