
Grace Davis
TEAN by WorldStrides
AlumniI had always known I wanted to study abroad since I entered high school. I'm Korean-American, but I didn't grow up with Korean culture as a part of my...
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University Studies Abroad Consortium
1693
Travel to the "Land of the Morning Calm." South Korea boasts a temperate climate with distinct seasons, particularly its breathtaking spring and ...


AIFS Abroad
16
Studying or interning abroad should be more than just exploring a new destination. With AIFS Abroad, you'll: - Earn academic credit - Gain real-...
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University Studies Abroad Consortium
51
Travel to the "Land of the Morning Calm." South Korea boasts a temperate climate with distinct seasons, particularly its breathtaking spring and ...
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WorldStrides
58
Study in Seoul at Korea University, one of South Korea’s most prestigious private institutions, while experiencing the energy of one of the world...
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CIEE College Study Abroad
58
Your Arts + Sciences program in Seoul lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a comb...
See All 15 ProgramsIES Abroad
2
Yonsei University is a prestigious private research university in Seoul, and a trusted partner of IES Abroad’s Study Abroad Foundation (SAF). So, picture it: you’re walking across campus at Yonsei University listening to your favorite K-Pop songs, you’ve got a hoppang (steamed bun) from a pojangmach
See All 4 ProgramsLTL Language School
35
Want to study Korean in Seoul at a CSN-accredited school? No school is better equipped to help you achieve your goals than LTL Language School. All of our group and 1-on-1 classes are taught by our fully certified native Korean teachers and are designed to help you make fast, steady progress. We ke
Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia)
115
Join Xplore’s In-Country TEFL/TESOL + Placement Program and kickstart your teaching career in South Korea with expert support and a guaranteed job placement. Earn a globally recognized 120-hour Level 5 TEFL/TESOL certification and step into a rewarding career with the confidence to succeed. Teaching
Academic Programs International
3
Study at one of Asia's most prestigious and multicultural universities—Korea University—with API! Not only do students have a vast array of subject areas to choose from, but they also have easy access to Seoul just outside the classroom. A perfect blend of modern and traditional, the vibrant capital
EF Education First
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
American Councils Study & Research Abroad
1
To help meet the growing demand for Korean language programming overseas, American Councils is pleased to provide the Korean Intensive Summer Language Program (KISLP), which is hosted by Chungbuk National University (CBNU) in Cheongju, South Korea. This program is open to all U.S. undergraduate an
CIEE High School Grads Abroad
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Your First Year Abroad program in Seoul lasts 12 weeks and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses and courses taught online through CIEE’s global academic partner, Arizona State University (ASU). Enhance your experience with co-curric
Intern Abroad HQ
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Launch your marketing career with confidence through Intern Abroad HQ, the world’s most affordable and top-rated provider of Sales & Marketing internships. Designed to provide practical, real-world experience and boost your resume, these internships help you build creative, analytical, and communica
See All 3 ProgramsThe TEFL Institute Group
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Get Certified to Teach English Worldwide Turn your ambition into a global opportunity with the Ofqual Regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma. This advanced course is designed to take you from beginner to confident English teacher, giving you everything you need to start teaching in a variety of settings.
SIT Study Abroad
0
Immerse yourself in South Korea’s dynamic society while exploring the intersection of tradition and rapid change. Build a shared foundation through a core course on Korean culture and society, then customize your experience by choosing two electives in language, gender, arts, or popular culture. Dee
See All 2 ProgramsAuthentica
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Authentica's Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea, is a semester or summer program hosted at Sogang University, a top-ranked Jesuit research university in the heart of the city. South Korea's transformation from post-war recovery to a G20 economic powerhouse is remarkable. With tech giants like Sams
Global Work & Travel
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Experience more than just local living – enjoy a VIP lifestyle on an amazing journey combining teaching English and exploring South Korea! Earn a generous salary, receive a warm welcome, flight reimbursement, free accommodation, and benefits like medical insurance. This program is your ultimate chan
Language Vacation
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Learn Korean in Seoul, South Korea, in a program provided by Language Vacation. With more than 10 million people, a figure that doubles if neighboring cities and suburbs are included, Seoul is the largest city in South Korea and the unquestioned economic, political, and cultural hub of the country.
VOYAGE KOREA
1
School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA) is the most renowned arts school in Korea, known for leading the global K-POP wave. Often referred to as the “Idol Academy,” SOPA has produced numerous world-famous stars, including singers, actors, and influencers — with alumni from groups like BTS, IVE, and E
International TEFL and TESOL
3
Experience the vibrant blend of modern innovation and rich cultural heritage as you embark on teaching in South Korea. Use the coupon code GoAbroad15 upon checkout to receive 15% off any course. Take advantage of our Super Sale! Choose from a selection of accredited online TEFL courses, with price
Non-Profit Study Abroad (NPSA)
0
Have the opportunity to study abroad by joining one of our Non-Profit, Low Cost, Direct Study Programs in these top destinations – Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Scotland, England, and France. These are offered throughout the year to university-level students fr
See All 2 ProgramsMost programs are based in Seoul, with a growing number in Busan and other cities. Where you go shapes your cost, your pace of life, and how much Korean you pick up day to day.
The capital and the center of study abroad in Korea. Home to the country's most prestigious universities, including Yonsei, Korea University, and Hanyang, along with provider programs run by CIEE, IES Abroad, AIFS, API, and USAC. The most expensive city to live in, but also the one with the most courses taught in English and the deepest student life.
Korea's second city, on the southeast coast. Beaches, a slower pace, and noticeably lower living costs than Seoul, with semester programs at universities like Pusan National. A strong choice if you want immersion with fewer other international students around.
USAC and SIT run programs in cities like Gwangju and smaller university towns, where costs drop further and English is less common in daily life. These suit students prioritizing language immersion over familiarity.
South Korea has more study abroad cities than the three above. Use the filters above to browse programs by city.
The right university depends on your field, your budget, and whether you want the capital or the coast. Narrow it down to a few, then compare the actual programs at each, since two programs at the same university can include very different things.
Popular fields include:
There are many more subjects available. Use the filters above to browse them all, or let the GoAbroad Online Advisor narrow it for you. It is a free interactive tool that instantly matches you with meaningful travel, study, work, or volunteer programs based on your personal goals.
No. Many programs teach entirely in English, which is why Korea works for students with no language background. Programs generally fall into a few groups:
Taught in English. No Korean required. Common at provider centers and at the major Seoul universities, and the usual choice for business, engineering, and the social sciences.
Korean language programs. Intensive language study at every level from beginner up, often the main reason students choose Sogang or Yonsei.
Mixed. Some coursework in English while you take Korean on the side, which is the most common way students study in Korea.
Your home university decides which credits transfer, not the program provider or the Korean university. Get that approval in writing before you leave.
Most programs require a minimum GPA, sophomore standing or above, and a valid passport. Language requirements depend on the program.
Visa rules depend on how long you are staying:
Learn more about visas and passports
Studying abroad in South Korea generally costs $8,000 to $20,000 per semester when you add living expenses to the program fee, making it one of Asia's more affordable destinations for the quality of its universities. Your city matters most, since Seoul costs more than Busan and smaller cities.
Most home health plans stop at the border. Browse GoAbroad's recommended travel insurance providers and get a quote by destination and travel dates.
These apply if your program doesn't already include them. Many programs bundle housing, so check what's covered before you add these up.
Budget roughly $600 to $900 a month in Seoul and less in Busan or smaller cities. Figures converted from KRW and vary with the exchange rate.
Tuition and course registration, and depending on the program, housing, some meals, insurance, orientation, excursions, and support on the ground.
Flights, visa fees, personal spending, most meals, local transport, and weekend travel. Read the inclusions on each program carefully, because two programs with the same headline price can differ by thousands once you account for what is left out.
Korea is one of the more affordable destinations, and funding makes it more so.
Don't rule out a program on price before you check what's available. Find scholarships to help pay for or reduce the cost of your semester in Korea.
Sources: Program fees compiled from GoAbroad listings, cost of living from Numbeo and the Study in Korea government portal. All sourced in September 2026. USD figures converted from KRW.
Korean universities run on their own calendar, which catches students out. The academic year opens in March, not September, so a spring intake there is the start of the year, not the middle.
Applications usually close three to five months before your start date, and each provider sets its own cutoff, so check the program directly.
Build in extra time for the D-2 visa. You cannot apply until your university sends your certificate of admission, and processing takes a few weeks on top of booking an appointment.
Here is how you can narrow the programs in South Korea down to a shortlist you can act on.
Every provider on GoAbroad is verified before their programs are listed, which is what makes the comparison worth doing in the first place.
Learn more about how GoAbroad works
Get answers to the questions travelers ask most
Studying abroad in Korea can be as simple as setting academic goals, talking to your advisor, and applying for programs! In general, there aren't any strict requirements other than the necessity to be eligible for a visa.
To get a scholarship to study in Korea, start doing research early. You can explore the GoAbroad Scholarship Directory for opportunities. Also consider talking to your study abroad office about any study abroad scholarships offered at your school.
It can cost up to $5000 to study abroad in South Korea for a summer, and up to $8000 per semester. The cost varies depending on your home university and your chosen program. Note that this does not include additional costs like airfare and insurance.
The only general requirement to study abroad in South Korea is to be eligible for a visa. Otherwise, there may be specific GPA or language requirements set by your home university or study abroad program.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Studying at LTL has been a life-changing experience for me and one of the best choices I've made for my personal growth. It's been almost a month since I arrived, and I am completely satisfied with the experience, from the educational system, the great teaching methods and charisma of Teacher Minkyung, to the socializing opportunities we have at school. The schedules are full of activities you can choose from to have fun, meet people, and learn together. The staff is highly professional and super friendly. Coming to class is really fun, and I really enjoy my routine here in Korea. I am grateful for this experience.

I had an amazing experience at LTL Language School! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, and the teachers are excellent. I learned so much during my stay. I also loved the weekly activities organized by the LTL staff, which made the experience even more special. The school is in a great location, too. I highly recommend LTL to anyone who wants to learn Korean and have an unforgettable experience in Seoul! 💗
Yay love to hear it!! We miss you here in Seoul, come back again in 2027! Thanks for the 5 stars and don't forget to keep speaking Korean back home :) LTL Team
I think up until my semester at Korea University, South Korea felt like some far off fantasy. A place that I knew of but could never truly put my finger on. But, I can now say with full confidence that my time there was one of the best times of my life. I made the sweetest friends that I will keep for life, got to embrace Korean culture through excursions with WorldStrides and with friends that I made in Seoul, and got to grow as a person. I think the reassurance of having my WorldStrides program and onsite staff there to help me gave me the ability to have the fullest experience I could have had. I got to see some of the most beautiful sights, ask questions (even the silly ones), and always felt safe. If you are considering going abroad, especially to Seoul, you 100% should. The country and culture are wonderful and the onsite staff there will become an extension of your Korean family. :)



I started my Korean 1-on-1 lessons on September 14, 2026 for two weeks, and I had a wonderful experience at LTL school, which was recommended by my daughter, Catherine. The school is very nice, well-organized, and the staff are friendly and welcoming. Special thanks to Manuel Saldana and Sebastian for the warm welcome and everyone else was very friendly. I would definitely recommend Ms. Soyeon G. for 1-on-1 lessons. She is understanding, patient and determined to help me succeed in learning Korean. I learned so much from her in these two weeks – from properly pronouncing vowels and consonants, to reading words and forming sentences in a short period of time. Thank you so much, Ms. Soyeon, for your patience, encouragement, and guidance.

Thanks so much for your lovely words, James :) We're so happy you had a wonderful experience at LTL. Come back again soon!! LTL Team
Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides
My experience studying abroad in South Korea was so much more than I could have ever expected. Honestly, I went into it thinking I would just try a bunch of new foods and do some sightseeing. However, it ended up being so much more than that. I attended Hanyang University, where I met so many amazing people and formed friendships that I know will last a lifetime. One thing I quickly realized was that everyone around me was in a similar position. We all wanted to explore, try new things, and make the most of our time in Korea. Because of that, it was incredibly easy to connect with people and build meaningful friendships. Before I knew it, my schedule was completely filled. Every day brought something new, whether it was visiting a different city, trying a new restaurant, going on a hike, or simply meeting someone new. For me, this was far outside my comfort zone. I had never traveled internationally before, and I barely knew how to speak Korean. However, the people around me made the experience so much easier. I probably asked more questions than I could count, and I'm sure I annoyed a few people along the way, but everyone was always kind and willing to help. Overall, studying abroad in South Korea taught me that there is so much more to a country than what you see on the surface. Being able to experience Korean culture firsthand, explore new places, and share those moments with friends made the experience truly unforgettable. What I originally thought would just be a few months of traveling and studying turned into one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.



I 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.
Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides
Hi! My name is Lily Nevarez, and I am a Biochemistry student at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). I love cooking, makeup, K-dramas, learning new languages, and, most importantly, exploring and experiencing new cultures. During my study abroad experience, I had the opportunity to spend an entire Wintermester in Seoul, South Korea, where I studied at Yonsei University. Yonsei is one of the most prestigious and iconic universities in South Korea, and if you are interested in Korean culture and studying abroad, it is definitely a university I would recommend exploring. I really recommend going to Yonsei with Worldstries because I think it has a program in which you can learn about and study the culture at the same time, here below is a video of my day to day life.

I 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!
Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides
My time at Sogang University through WorldStrides was the most impactful, life-changing, and rewarding experience I have ever had. Beyond my incredible course studying K-Pop, Hallyu, and the way it has spread across the globe, I found so much joy going and experiencing everyday life in Korea. From the beautiful temples to practicing my Korean with locals, I cherished every moment I had during my time there. I was always taken care of, supported, and felt like I was truly cared for by the on-site team, from airport pickup to organized activities (including a super fun excursion to Nami Island!). I would do anything to go back again and re-experience the entire thing!



Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides
This was one of the best experiences of my life. I spent a month in Seoul and took classes at Hanyang University. I felt very immersed in the culture and made so many new friends from all over the world. I took a Korean traditional fan dancing class while I was there, and it was so much fun to learn and perform at the graduation ceremony. We also got to go to Jeju Island during the trip, which was so amazing. It was really interesting to see an island filled with so much history.

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides
My experience in Seoul was amazing, I had so much fun exploring and with my fellow WorldStrides attendees. Together we explored different parts of Seoul, tried new foods, experienced Korean culture and got to experience what daily life is like in South Korea. Being able to learn both inside and outside the classroom made an experience even more meaningful for me. One of the most memorable parts of my trip was exploring Seoul on my own. I spent an entire day navigating the city by myself, using the subway system, ordering meals in Korean, asking for directions, and visiting places I had previously only seen on social media. The WorldStrides team also made the experience much easier and less overwhelming. They provided clear instructions, answered my questions, and were always there when I needed support. Knowing that I had people I could turn to allowed me to focus less on the logistics and more on enjoying Seoul, learning about Korean culture, and making the most of my experience.

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides
I studied abroad in Seoul, South Korea at Sogang University through WorldStrides!! I had the most incredible, unforgettable experience studying Korean music globalization, exploring the country, and immersing myself completely in the culture. Thanks to Sogang and to WorldStrides, I was taken care of every single step of the way and had an experience I’ll miss every single day!

I have been here in LTL South Korea for about 2 months and it has been a really great experience. When I first chose to join LTL over a standard Korean university, I was worried about the quality of teaching that I would received because honestly I have had mediocre experiences before. I think good teachers can be really hard to come by. But my teacher 고민지 선생님, was honestly perfect for my learning styile and has really helped me improve my Korean. She always puts in the extra effort to make sure we understand the material. In the past, I have taken Korean courses both in America and in Korea, but I have never learned as fast as I have with her so I am really grateful. In our small group setting she talks to each student and makes sure that we all get our speaking practice in. She is always attentive to her students and I always feel that she is super passionate and about teaching. Even if I am slacking on studying or low energy class is still really fun. In the past my Korean courses never really provided speaking practice. But because of the small groups, we are able to do it very well. She also explains the nuances of Korean which I feel as a foreigner is a really difficult concept to grasp.. I really truly think that is such a great teacher. Actually at first I also wondered about the length of the classes because I thought 4 hours would be long. But time really goes by fast. I was also pretty worried that I wouldn’t be in the right level for learning Korean. But the staff were really accommodating in our Korean to ensure that we were getting the right teacher for our levels. I personally was put in the level fit for me, but I’ve seen a lot of students change levels a lot of they needed. Which I think is great because my other programs never let us switch levels.. and that was really frustrating for me in the past. With the LTL program every monday, wednesday, and friday we are able to eat lunch together as a group. One of the first staff I met was 최지은 (we call her Violet) and she was so kind! I felt really welcomed and she is usually the person who takes us to lunch. We both bonded over our love for K-pop (haha). We always go somewhere nearby the school for lunch. There are also many activities after morning classes. A lot of the activities are tourist activities, so these days I don’t really join as often as I used to, but in the start of the program I was a little shy so it was fun to join and make some friends. Everyone is from somewhere different so I always had fun conversations. Another nice thing I have been able to do is just stay in the building a study in an empty classroom. My teacher recommended it to me after I told her I had a difficult time studying at my place. I love the location of the building as well because its in Hongdae, so theres just so many things I can do after class. I would definitely come back again and hopefully I am able to next summer. It is definitely more affordable compared other schools and while other programs offer all day excursions and such, personally I don’t have a strong interest in that. So I would definitely recommend this program if anyone is considering it especially if you have been to Korea before.



So pleased you had a great time with us at LTL Seoul and with your teacher 고민지 선생님. It's a pleasure to read such a positive story and we're so glad you bonded with the team over common interests too!! Please come back again and let's improve together again. Don't forget to study Korean hard back home too :) Best wishes, LTL Team
Best languageschool experience! Communication: Top! Even before booking fast and helpful response (in your mother tongue), in Seoul the team is sooo helpful. Whatever question you have...they are present and help. You are totally lost somewhere in the city? send a message. They will help. Location: you ll find LTL in a supernice student district, easy to reach by couple of subwaylines, many restaurants, clubs, bars, shops School/Classrooms: As LTL does not do huge classes, you have rooms for max 8 people, with a lot of light, all with aircon)heating. Also after classes you can study in the front area or have a nice chat (or learning) on the outside terrace. Your morning only works with coffee? no problem, coffeemachine provided. Iced Coffee? ice cubes provided. as well as tea, water and so on. course: after finding out your level you enter a course of a few people only. in a very personal and easy going atmosphere. even though focused on learning, there s always time for some chatting and intercultural exchange. crowd: international mix, all ages, openminded, mixing well. me near 50, was a bit afraid it might be difficult going to school/course with genz/alpha. Not at all. Thanks to openminded and inclusive atmosphere. and to: Teacher: We had Kyle as super skilled teacher. He managed a very mixed group of 4, different age and nationality, different backgrounds in a perfect way. In a personal approach he encouraged, motivated and gave guidance. Starting from absolutely ZERO within 4 weeks i feel safe to speak. Of course more practice in writing reading and vocabulary needed. But the base is there to proceed on your own. 감사합니다, Kyle씨. And all this in a not pushy but very relaxed way! After school avtivities: LTL team organizes a lot of team activities. exploring nearby restaurants, art and craft courses, escaoe rooms, clumbing, pool excursions, korean calligraphy course..and many more. And LTL is not asking additiona fees. Prices: I did a research before, and seeing what others offer, LTL is best value for money. perfect service, good facilities, small classed, superskilled teacher/teaching method, extra progams, and supersweet team. I ll definitely come back and go on with course.

Zero to feeling safe to speak Korean in 4 weeks - and with iced coffee on tap throughout!? Amazing!! We are thrilled Kyle and the whole Seoul team made such an impression and we will make sure he sees your kind words. Thanks so much for taking the time to cover every corner of the experience. Keep up the great work studying Korean and we cannot wait to welcome you back! LTL Team
Program: CIEE Semester in Seoul, South Korea
I think that this program is an accessible way for students to venture outside of their comfort zone in both their taste pallet and social interactions. In this program you will learn to make friends with people you might not encounter on a day to day basis.
Program: CIEE Semester in Seoul, South Korea
Program is well structured and the pre orientation is super helpful, specially because going to a new country can feel overwhelming so the guide made it easier. The staff is very attentive to our needs and they host events and day trips to help us be involved in our new city
Program: USAC South Korea: Undergraduate Courses at Kookmin in Seoul
I am super grateful for the support from both institutions in making the process as smooth as possible from departure to arrival and departing again. USACs preparation was surely a gift, Kookmin’s integration and support was helpful, and staff from both sides helped as much as they could!
Program: USAC Korea: Seoul - Korean & East Asian Studies at Yonsei
I enjoyed my study abroad program! I felt my time there allowed me to integrate into the culture to the point that I truly saw the local culture rather than what people see as a tourist. It showed me that I can adapt quickly to assimilate the customs of the community while also still retaining my independence and sense of self. Coming back to the U.S., I came back with a better understanding of my personal identity and how different practices around the world are similar and different to where I live. This program helped me see ways I can incorporate different cultural perspectives in my career advancement and knowledge. I highly recommend this program to people that want to challenge themselves!
Program: USAC Korea: Seoul - Undergrad Studies at Korea University
I honestly think studying abroad at Korea University was one of the best opportunities I have experienced! I was nervous before going, but I am so happy I went and got out of my comfort zone, which allowed me to become more independent. While in Seoul, I made amazing friends (who I still keep in touch with) and had tons of fun everyday both inside and outside of school. There was just so much to explore and I was never bored! I would totally go back again if I had the chance because it is such a great memory of mine.
Program: USAC Korea: Seoul - Undergrad Studies at Korea University
As someone who had never been to Asia to start with. Studying and living in Seoul for a semester was a life changing experience. Meeting other international students from all over the world while also making new friends with the locals. The city of Seoul offers a wide variety of cultural activities, food, nightlife, and many more things to do for entertainment. I came back from my study abroad and still recommend it to my friends and fellow classmates. USAC also offered amazing guidance along the whole process of applying to arrival and even ongoing support while there. Great program and highly recommend to others.

Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Grace Davis
TEAN by WorldStrides
AlumniI had always known I wanted to study abroad since I entered high school. I'm Korean-American, but I didn't grow up with Korean culture as a part of my...
Read Full Interview
Benjamin Olmstead
WorldStrides
AlumniGrowing up in a small town it can be hard not to feel the pull of wanting to expand your horizons. I knew after a long time fascinating myself with od...
Read Full Interview
Mary Schwark
WorldStrides
AlumniI would be lying if I didn’t say that it was the only program my school offered in Korea. But, I was actually the first student from my university to ...
Read Full Interview
Bao Yang
WorldStrides
AlumniI think it all came down to cost and benefits for me. I wanted the most bang for my buck. When I compared other programs to ISA, ISA was just a better...
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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