
Arseniy Ovchinnikov
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
AlumniI 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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Arcos Learning Abroad
250
Study abroad in the highlands of central Costa Rica, in the charming city of Heredia. Immerse yourself in the Costa Rican lifestyle while taking classes at the modern Latin University. Courses include Spanish for all levels, electives, certificate courses in English and Spanish, and internships. C
See All 3 ProgramsAIFS Abroad
50
Study abroad in London, England with AIFS Abroad and earn college credit in one of the world’s leading centers for business, fashion, media, theater and culture. With semester, summer, January Term, Spring Break, May Term and academic year options, you can choose from a wide range of programs and co
See All 3 ProgramsGo Abroad China Ltd.
177
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 8 ProgramsInternational Medical Aid (IMA)
70
Join the ranks of forward-thinking healthcare professionals through International Medical Aid's (IMA) Physician Assistant and Pre-PA Internships. Our program, rooted in the educational standards of Johns Hopkins University, is designed to propel undergraduate students, PA school attendees, certified
See All 6 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
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 2 ProgramsPhilotimo Med Abroad
44
Are you a dental student eager to gain hands-on experience and shadow leading professionals in one of the most historically rich countries in the world? The Philotimo Med Dentistry Internship in Greece offers an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your dental knowledge and skills. With 25+ hours of
See All 6 ProgramsJaLS GROUP
51
Hokkaido Japanese Language School, located in the center of the bustling and modern city of Sapporo, offers students the chance to study Japanese conversationally and culturally. No previous experience is necessary and classes are offered for all levels and age groups. Courses begin every Monday and
See All 3 ProgramsMeiji Academy
73
Meiji Academy’s Hokkaido School is located in the center of the bustling city of Sapporo, which offers delicious food, world-famous beer, and action-packed ski resorts. You’ll also find the vast stunning lands of Hokkaido on your doorstep, perfect for an adventure! Our courses cover: - Standard Ja
See All 2 ProgramsInstituto Hemingway
33
Study Spanish at our fully accredited language training center, located in one of the most interesting areas of Spain. Our educational programs provide a unique combination of in-class work and outside activities. We are not only a 'School for Spanish', but we are also an 'Institute for Languages an
See All 3 ProgramsCracow School of Art and Fashion Design
13
The Cracow School of Art and Fashion Design offers a two-and-a-half-year full-time program that enables students to release their full potential. At the school, students are in the heart of a vibrant community—alive with creative energy, surrounded by people who love what they do, have ideas and t
See All 2 ProgramsMente Argentina
8
Through the Mente Argentina: Wine Program participants will explore the process of how the Argentine Malbec is produced while experiencing the rich Argentine culture. Concepts that will be taught in this course include wine production, introductions to wine tasting techniques, knowledge of varieties
See All 2 ProgramsNosara Spanish Institute
7
For those looking to combine training of the body and mind, NSI's Spanish & Yoga program combines the best of what Nosara has to offer. As a world-class yoga teacher training destination, Nosara has an abundance of expert yoga instructors and first-class yoga studios. In this program, students c
Seville Abroad
3
Join one of our Educational School Trips to Spain with Seville Abroad, a unique and unforgettable experience that helps students develop a deeper love and respect for the Spanish language, while increasing their motivation and interest in future studies. Our educational tours allow students to lear
The Palestinian Center - Go Palestine
23
The Learn Shami Arabic or Modern Standard Arabic in Palestine Program offers a valuable opportunity for individuals who wish to study either Levantine Arabic (Shami / Ammiya) or Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) while practicing the language with native speakers in Palestine. Shami Arabic is spoken by n
See All 2 ProgramsChild Family Health International
2
Participants get the chance to learn about tropical diseases in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca while improving their conversational Spanish language skills. They will also learn medical terminology. Service opportunities will vary, from work at primary care facilities to awareness promotion for rural dis
See All 2 ProgramsInternational TEFL Academy
0
Are you an American interested in studying Spanish and getting paid to teach English in Spain? Typically, it is extremely difficult for Americans and non-EU citizens to get a work visa to live, work, and teach English in Spain. What makes ITA's teach & study programs unique is that you can get a stu
Dante Alighieri Siena - Learning Italy
1
The Italian Language Experience at Learning Italy – Dante Alighieri Siena offers a flexible, immersive Italian language program open to students of all proficiency levels. Students may enroll for a minimum of 3 weeks and up to a full academic year. Each week includes 20 Italian lessons (50 minutes
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
0
Spend a semester or academic year at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and experience university life in Beer-Sheva, Israel. Study in English while becoming part of BGU’s vibrant community of Israeli and international students. Build an academic experience that fits your interests by choosing cour
Intern Abroad HQ
169
Intern in Spain with Intern Abroad HQ and experience award-winning, accredited programs in Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona, Tenerife or Seville. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, gap year traveler, or career changer, you’ll gain real-world experience in fields like Business, Psychology, Anima
See All 12 ProgramsWorld Unite!
0
We can arrange a stay with a coffee farmer on a family-run plantation on the lower altitude slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro. This is an excellent opportunity for everyone to learn everything about the cultivation of coffee and the Tanzanian coffee trade while staying in the middle of a natural landscape
It’s not too late to sign up for an alternative spring break in 2016. Many universities and colleges sponsor different international activities for students to participate in during spring break. Not only will you be able to travel with your closest friends and classmates, but you’ll earn college credit AND collect some shiny, new stamps in your freshly minted passport.
Deciding to study or volunteer abroad during spring break is a relatively low-risk commitment too. Instead of packing your bags for a semester or summer abroad (or more), you will only be away from your teddy bear (er, comforts from home) for a week or two. Leaving home can be very scary and overwhelming, and testing the waters with a short trip like an alternative spring break is a good way to get a feel for travel without overdoing it.
Spring break can be a time to goof off and imbibe with your friends. But that’s so old school, and let’s be honest, do you really need to wake up full of regret from another night spent at the bar? Instead, choose to spend your time helping others or seeing beautiful new parts of the world.
There are a variety of spring break study abroad programs you can choose from. While you can opt to do a spring break program through your university, there are also plenty of other ways to make your spring break more meaningful abroad. Some of the most popular ones include:
Volunteering Abroad. Many volunteer organizations abroad are in need of extra hands to contribute to ongoing projects for their respective causes. Even with only one to two weeks, college students can have a positive impact on others during a spring break volunteer trip. Popular spring break volunteer projects include construction, teaching English, and conservation. Choose a cause that you’re passionate about, sign up for a program, and do some good for the people of the world!
Intensive Language Courses. If you are interested in speaking a foreign language (or already have one or two under your belt), you might settle on traveling to a country that speaks your second language natively. You can sign up for an intensive language course for spring break, do a homestay with a local family, and return home with more to show for your travels than a silly souvenir cup. Many college students study Spanish, French, or Italian abroad on their spring breaks.
Eco-Adventure Travel. If you want your spring break to be heavy on the adventure side, you might opt to sign up for a spring break travel program for young adults. Nothing wrong with being a college tourist! The exciting part about partaking in an adventure travel program abroad is you can whitewater raft, scuba dive, or trek safely alongside other spring breakers like yourself.
Before deciding what type of alternative spring break you’re ready to sign up for, identify your goals and motivators for traveling abroad over spring break. Is it just to have a good time? Awesome! Are you wanting to give back and help others? Superb! Do you want to capitalize on the opportunity by learning something destination-specific? Fantastic! Once you know the “why” behind the “what,” your decision making process will be extremely easy.
If you want to maximize your spring break study abroad experience and make the most of your alternative spring break, you must be prepared and plan ahead. Beyond researching your destination and committing some of the local language to memory, here are some other hyper-relevant tips to keep in mind:
It is important that spring break travelers are intentional with their time abroad, especially considering how brief the trip will be!
Studying abroad during your spring break has more benefits than Taylor Swift has followers. You will get an introduction to fabulous world cultures, learn more about yourself and your passions, and get a taste of the life aquatic (er, abroad) in a short amount of time. Don’t be surprised if you gain loads of confidence and start planning your next trip abroad before your spring break trip is even over.
Perhaps even more importantly, one benefit of studying abroad during spring break means you won’t be stuck sitting in your boring hometown eating Panda Express while half-heartedly skimming Netflix options on your couch (again).
While it is possible to earn college credit for your travels, it is not guaranteed. The possibility varies significantly from university to university. Our best advice is to start the conversation ASAP with your academic advisor to learn the steps necessary to secure course credit for your spring break travels.
So, what are you waiting for, Johnny gun-shy?! Start packing your bags, saving your money, and preparing for a week of more Snapchatting than normal.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
I chose AIFS Abroad for my semester in London because I wanted to experience living in a new country while continuing my education, and I’m so glad I did. The staff were incredibly helpful and supportive, which made adjusting to life in a new city much easier. The housing accommodations were also a great part of the experience and gave me a place to feel comfortable while living abroad. Having an Oyster card to use on the Tube made it so easy to get around London and explore different neighborhoods, landmarks, and attractions. The Eurail pass was another great benefit because it gave me the opportunity to travel and experience even more while studying abroad. One of my favorite parts of the program was getting to explore London, visit museums and landmarks, and experience everyday life in a different country. I also made amazing friendships and became more independent and confident navigating new places. As a marketing and management student, studying abroad gave me a new perspective on different cultures and helped me grow both personally and professionally. Between the supportive staff, housing, transportation benefits, and opportunities to explore, AIFS made my experience really memorable. I would definitely recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking to study abroad, make new friends, and get the most out of their time in another country!
I had an amazing time learning about the culture in Thailand while participating in therapeutic activities with amazing children. it was a life-changing experience and I’m so thankful that therapy abroad made it so special!
Program: 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.
I spent two months studying Mandarin at Fudan University in Shanghai through GAC, and it was an unforgettable experience. My homestay family welcomed me like their own — we cooked together, watched Chinese dramas, and they patiently helped me practice every day. My teacher was engaging and focused on real conversation rather than just textbooks. By the end, I could confidently order food, ask for directions, and chat with locals. The GAC team also organized weekend trips to Suzhou and Hangzhou. I came home with real fluency and a deep love for Chinese culture.

In the program, myself and fellow students at my university really connected with the hosts of the program- both when they were professors for teaching us Darija and culture and guides in new cities. It would not have been the same for me in Morocco without them, and they have set me up on a good track for the entirety of my experience since and in the future. And this was all in 2024! They have had years to improve and refine their skills.

I had the best time in Morocco. It will always hold a special place in my heart. Marwane and his team played a major role in that. They have the kindest hearts and truly want you to learn and understand the place they call home and why it is so special to them. I could not have asked for a better experience and team to do this with. I will cherish this time in Morocco eternally. I highly recommend Marwane and his team. Cheers!
Lingua Compass left a Rabat shaped hole in my heart and was an experience that will always stay with me. Marwan and the rest of the team place you right in the heart of Moroccan hospitality, in which guests are treated with the same warmth as a long lost friend. I also had a thoroughly immersive cultural experience, not stopping at the surface of Moroccan culture, but exploring the history, geography, and complex aspects of the country. This is all coupled with really experienced language teachers who use a skills-based, speaking-first model - which is very refreshing for anyone who has ever suffered through Arabic grammar. Thank you Lingua Compass! ❤️🩵
Overall I loved my time in Costa Rica but the unfortunate part about it was I was there for 2 months and the 2nd month we did not have any excursions or cultural events even though we paid so much money to be there and I feel like we were lied to on what everything would cost to travel individually. I think I loved my time in Costa Rica because me and my roommates made the most out of it even though we felt separated from the rest of the program because we were the only ones who lived away from everyone and we could not walk to our other friends home stays because our homestay mother would make us Uber once it was already dark we did not have the money to continuously do that if we just wanted to hangout with our friends. Also we were mislead about the internship transportation luckily I was in a group of 4 for my internship and we could split Ubers but even then I was struggling financially towards the end of the trip and had no idea that we would have to figure out our own transportation to our internships if I had known that before I would have never done the internship it was totally misleading. Lastly, I enjoyed my homestay but I hated having the same meals from lunch and dinner and when I told my homestay mother that we all did not like that she did not change it she continued to do it.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Hola a todos, estuve una estancia muy bonita aquí en Arequipa y en las clases de Máximo Nivel. Sobre todo la clases de Dyana. Antes, tenía muchos profesores de español, pero, como ella da sus clases . . . ¡Era la mejorar de todas! Siempre alegre y sonriendo. El clima En la clase siempre era más familiar o como con amigos buenos. Así, nunca me senti como en una clase de escuela. Hacer las conversaciones y la gramatica no era trabajo . Pero tambien muy detallado Y muy bien explicado. Eran tres semanas que ya me hacen falta. Y tambien las clases de cocina con Nora. No solo la comida me gustó mucho. Ella lo hace de una manera. muy buena. Quizá, se podría dar a las estudiante estudiantes de cocina tambien dar un pequeño certificado que dice, que ahora tienen experiencias en la cocina peruana :-)
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Dayana made learning Spanish fun. We laughed a lot and learned a lot. She was always encouraging and supportive. Dayana did a good job focusing on our errors with supplementary materials. Our group was very cohesive, in large part because Dayana brought us together. Best Spanish teacher ever!
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I was pleasantly surprised with this whole experience! You all have been incredible. Maximo's culture is very welcoming + easy to connect with other people. I so so appreciate all of the support you've provided. Also, Pamela is fantastic!! I wish I could learn from her for longer. She is warm and a great, relatable teacher who has made me feel proud + confident in my Spanish level. My only regret is not staying longer!
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Nely was a great teacher. We discussed many debatable topics and I learned a lot of new vocabulary. Everyone at Maximo was great from Patrick, Maia, Gabby and many others. Maximo really takes great care of all their students. I can´t say enough good things about Maximo.
My name is Kabba and I studied abroad in London, England during the Fall 2025 semester! I chose to study abroad because I wanted to explore an opportunity to grow by doing something out of my comfort zone. AIFS helped make my experience an unforgettable one by ensuring I was prepared before departure and providing me with support during my time abroad. I would recommend studying abroad with AIFS to anyone who is willing to expand their horizon!
I studied Mandarin at BLCU in Beijing for 4 months, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. My homestay family was so kind — they spoke only Chinese, so I had to practice every single day. My teacher was patient and always encouraged me to speak more. By the end of the program, I could comfortably order food, take the subway, and even have simple conversations with locals. The GAC team organized a weekend trip to the Great Wall and a traditional Chinese painting class. I left Beijing with real language skills and friends from all over the world. Highly recommend!

I spent three months studying Mandarin at Peking University through GAC, and it completely transformed my confidence with the language. My homestay family was incredibly welcoming — they spoke only Chinese at home, so I had to practice daily. My teacher made grammar and tones easy to understand with interactive lessons. By week eight, I could order food, take the metro, and even bargain at the markets. The GAC team organized a trip to the Great Wall and a traditional tea ceremony, which made the cultural side unforgettable. I returned to Spain with real fluency and a second family in Beijing.

Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I've been with Maximo a little over two months into my 6 month stay doing Spanish immersion. The locals, staff, and friends I have met here have been nothing short of incredible! Learning Spanish from native speakers and immersing yourself in the culture is the best way to do it. Cusco, Peru is such an amazing city full of history and wonderful nature. I cannot recommend it enough!

I had so much fun studying abroad in Costa Rica through Arcos. My program director Angie was super caring! The university professors and the rest of Arcos staff were super friendly as well. I learned a lot of Spanish, ate really good food, made some new friends and explored really beautiful places.The study abroad had excursions and activities planned throughout the weeks. There was enough structure to have something to look forward to, but also enough flexibility to do something on your own!
I studied Mandarin at Peking University for 3 months through GAC. I arrived knowing almost no Chinese, but my homestay family was incredibly patient and kind. My teacher made classes fun and practical. By the end, I could hold conversations, order food, and even bargain at markets. The GAC team organized weekend trips to the Great Wall and Summer Palace. I returned to Japan with confidence and a love for Chinese culture. Every food was very tasted and appetite bringing and I would eat more than usual. Highly recommend.

I studied Mandarin at Peking University for 4 months through GAC. I arrived knowing only "ni hao." My homestay family was amazing – they only spoke Chinese, so I had to practice every single day. My teacher was patient and made classes fun. By month three, I could order food, take the subway, and have real conversations with locals. The GAC team organized weekend trips to the Summer Palace and the Great Wall. I came back to Belgium with confidence and a second family in Beijing. Highly recommend.

Had an incredible time. Didn't know what to expect since this program was new to me, but I absolutely loved it and would totally recommend it to anyone looking to study abroad. Met amazing people and made friendships even though I knew no one going into this. Would 100% go through this program again.
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Arseniy Ovchinnikov
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to gain international experience, improve my English, and learn from professionals in the hospitality ind...
Read Full Interview
Anastasiya Vinogradova
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
AlumniGrowing up, I lived in Thailand and practiced tennis, so travel and new cultures always felt natural to me.
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Maria Huerta
European Centre for Career Education
AlumniWhat 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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Andrew Messersmith
College Year in Athens
AlumniWhat 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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Jonathan Ulicny
CES Maastricht
AlumniI was inspired to travel abroad because of my commitment to learning more about international cultures and interacting with individuals across Europe....
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Vanessa Chairez
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
AlumniI 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 ...
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Bethel University Global Studies
AlumniMy family has been my motivation and inspiration to go abroad. I come from a family where most of us are complacent with small, everyday life. My fami...
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Kesa Ferguson
Academic Programs International
AlumniMy brother was my primary inspiration to go abroad; seeing his transformative experience in China showed me how much a global perspective can change a...
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Lia-Mara Bösch
StudyInBali
AlumniWhat inspired me to go abroad was partly a requirement of my university, as we have to either complete an internship or study abroad for one semester.
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John Peterson
Instituto Hemingway
AlumniGoing abroad was inspired by my desire to step outside my comfort zone and experience life from a different perspective. I wanted to improve my langua...
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José Gonzalo Solís Baca
European Centre for Career Education
AlumniTraveling has always been a passion of mine, and the opportunity to experience other cultures deeply inspires me. Going abroad allows me to build genu...
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Amal Azabova
European Centre for Career Education
AlumniAlthough I graduated some time ago and currently live in Prague, I felt a strong desire to return to a structured academic environment. I wanted to re...
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Elise Monroe
Academic Programs Abroad (APA)
AlumniI was always determined to study abroad because of the stories my dad told me about his own time living overseas. He once spoke French fluently, and I...
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Mikhail Mikhaylov
Learn Russian in the European Union
AlumniI wanted to deepen my understanding of the post-Soviet region through direct immersion, especially given my academic focus on conflict mediation. The ...
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Makayla Ross
IES Abroad
AlumniStudying abroad was not a part of my original 4-year plan. I'd anticipate joining campus clubs, meeting new people and making lifelong friendships, an...
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Grant Dockery
IES Abroad
AlumniThis was not my first experience studying abroad. I have always loved traveling and experiencing new cultures (I'm a big foodie). I also adore languag...
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Eddie Kaake
CES Maastricht
AlumniI had known from a young age that I wanted to study far from home, but due to the illness of one of my parents, I was afraid to make that jump. After ...
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Jon Shepherd
Bethel University Global Studies
AlumniMy first trip abroad was to Mexico when I was in college, studying Spanish. That experience changed everything for me; it brought the language to life...
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Anika Freestone
Phezulu Pre-Vet
AlumniI’ve always wanted to go to Africa, or specifically South Africa, to experience and work with its wildlife since I was a little girl. I’ve wanted to e...
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Janie Kilby
Forum-Nexus Study Abroad
AlumniAll three of my older brothers participated in study abroad, and from their experiences and adventures, I discovered my inspiration to have similar ad...
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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