There are a ton of great summer abroad programs for high school students out there. Let’s take a look at them.
Are you ready for a summer like no other? It's time to pack your bags, broaden your horizons, and jet off on an adventure that will shape your life in ways you can't even imagine.
High school is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and discover the world, and these top 10 summer abroad programs are your ticket to an unforgettable journey.
Whether you're looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or a chance to make a positive impact, there's something here for everyone. Let’s explore some of the best summer programs for high school students abroad.
Imagine spending two to four weeks in the heart of Spain, Costa Rica, Argentina, or Mexico during the summer. Arcos Journeys Abroad makes this dream a reality for high school students seeking immersive language experiences.
What sets them apart? They offer the opportunity to live with carefully selected host families, which guarantees an authentic and local perspective.
Your days with Arcos Journeys Abroad are filled with intensive language classes, ensuring that by the end of your journey, you'll be conversing confidently with locals. But it's not all about hitting the books; you'll also embark on exciting adventures, exploring the rich cultures of these vibrant countries.
Picture yourself strolling along the charming streets of a Spanish village, savoring authentic paella in Costa Rica, or delving into the vibrant culture of Mexico. Arcos Journeys Abroad combines language acquisition with unforgettable summer escapades, making it a top choice for adventurous high school students.
For the high school student with a heart full of compassion and a thirst for adventure, Projects Abroad is a great option. They operate in a number of destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific. Their programs typically last two weeks during the summer, making it perfect for a meaningful yet manageable break.
What makes Projects Abroad special is their focus on volunteer work. Whether you're passionate about medicine, human rights, conservation, or other causes, there's a project tailored just for you. Imagine spending your summer contributing to a worthwhile cause while exploring a new corner of the world.
If you’ve ever imagined trekking through the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, caring for elephants in Thailand, or assisting medical professionals in Ghana—check this program out. Projects Abroad gives high school students the chance to make a tangible impact on global issues while having the adventure of a lifetime.
If your idea of a perfect summer involves globe-trotting and immersing yourself in different cultures, Travel for Teens is your ideal companion. They offer programs ranging from 11 to 30 days during the summer, featuring destinations as diverse as Australia, New Zealand, Costa Rica, and various parts of Europe.
What sets Travel for Teens apart is their versatility. They cater to a wide range of interests, from community service and cultural exploration to language immersion and photography. It's like a customized summer experience where you get to choose your own adventure.
Whether you're helping with conservation efforts in Australia, exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, or engaging in community service projects in Costa Rica, Travel for Teens ensures that your summer is not only memorable but also meaningful.
GVI is all about combining adventure with sustainability and global citizenship. They operate year-round in diverse locations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, offering programs that can last from one to 24 weeks. What makes GVI stand out is its commitment to responsible travel and impactful projects.
You can spend your summer in Ghana, contribute to marine conservation efforts in Seychelles, teach English in Cambodia, or preserve sea turtle habitats in Greece. GVI programs allow high school students to step out of their comfort zones and make a real difference in the world.
Not only do you get to explore stunning destinations, but you'll also acquire new skills and perspectives, fostering personal growth and a sense of global citizenship.
Greenheart Travel is for the environmentally conscious high school student who's passionate about making a positive impact on the planet. They offer year-round programs in a wide array of countries, including Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Puerto Rico, Spain, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
One of Greenheart Travel's standout features is its dedication to animal welfare. They offer programs like elephant conservation in Thailand and stray dog rescue in Costa Rica, giving students the opportunity to work directly with animals while promoting responsible tourism.
Additionally, Greenheart Travel offers one-week language immersion programs, allowing students to improve their language skills while experiencing the culture firsthand.
Whether you're snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or learning the art of Italian cuisine in Italy, Greenheart Travel encourages responsible and immersive travel experiences.
API understands that high school students have diverse interests and goals, which is why they offer summer programs in Bhutan, England, Ireland, Spain, and Costa Rica. Their programs typically range from 1 to 4 weeks and cover a wide range of disciplines.
Whether you're into art, want to earn college credits, are interested in community service, or have a passion for STEM subjects, API has a program to match your aspirations. The best part? API's program fees are comprehensive, covering everything from housing and insurance to excursions and fees.
Imagine studying art history in the vibrant city of Dublin, delving into environmental science in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, or taking on a leadership program in Bhutan. API ensures that your summer abroad is not only academically enriching but also culturally immersive.
Calling all aspiring dancers, musicians, actors, and filmmakers! Performing Arts Abroad offers unique programs that blend your artistic passion with global engagement. Their programs typically last from one to six weeks and take place in regions such as Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the South Pacific.
What makes Performing Arts Abroad stand out is the opportunity to combine your creative pursuits with community service projects. You might find yourself teaching dance to underprivileged children in India, participating in theater productions in Italy, or creating documentaries in Costa Rica.
These programs offer a chance to not only hone your artistic talents but also foster cross-cultural understanding through the universal language of the arts.
For those who crave the wonders of nature and the serenity of peaceful landscapes, Worldwide Friends Iceland beckons. In just 11 days during the summer, high school students can experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland, known as the "Land of Dreams."
This program offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity. Picture yourself horseback riding through Iceland's stunning landscapes, watching whales in their natural habitat, hiking to hidden waterfalls, and kayaking amidst glaciers.
It's a journey that fosters a deep connection with nature and the camaraderie of like-minded adventurers. Iceland's pristine wilderness becomes your playground, and the memories forged here last a lifetime.
If you’re interested in exploring China, add these programs to your list. You’ll learn and grow in some of the country's most famous cities.
Thinking about diving into the Chinese language and culture? These programs might be just what you need.
This program is set in Shanghai, a fast-paced and modern city. It aims to improve your Mandarin and understanding of Chinese culture. If you join, you'll earn college credits and live with a local family, a great way to see what life is like in Shanghai.
The Temple of Heaven Program in Beijing focuses on improving your Mandarin and understanding Chinese culture. Like the Shanghai program, it includes college credits and a homestay with a Chinese family, giving you a firsthand look at daily life in Beijing.
Are you looking to make a difference in the world? These programs address important social justice issues within Southeast Asia.
If China’s borders stay closed to foreign travelers, the program will move to Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. Participants will explore the largest river basin in Southeast Asia, learning about resource management and local spiritual beliefs.
They will stay with local families and learn about the region's history, including the impacts of Mao’s Cultural Revolution and Pol Pot’s Regime while exploring diverse landscapes from the Himalayas to the tropics.
These language immersion programs are all about giving you a thorough language and culture experience.
If you’re a high school student aged 13 to 18 interested in learning a new language, this might be the program for you. It offers a chance to come to China and study Chinese at a university or language school. Classes are held in the morning, and in the afternoon, students visit Chinese high schools.
This helps them see how Chinese students experience school, allows them to participate in activities, and allows them to learn about the culture firsthand.
Check out Shanghai's vibrant energy and Beijing's rich history in one unique program. RISH has been setting up Chinese summer camps for over a decade, constantly tweaking things to keep them fun and educational. These camps are great for boosting your Chinese skills and getting into the heart of Chinese culture.
If you’re interested in traveling to South Africa, check out these programs.
Keep reading for opportunities to help out local communities, giving you a chance to learn about leadership and understand what those communities need.
Set in Cape Town, South Africa, this program invites you to embrace Nelson Mandela’s legacy during the Mandela Month of Service. Participants work on meaningful projects that embody Mandela's ideals.
While enrollment is now closed, those who joined previously spent 50 hours on service-learning projects, with accommodations provided in local hostels or hotels.
Are you interested in protecting the environment? Check out these programs that work to ensure it stays healthy for generations to come.
In Cape Town, this program offers a deep dive into ocean conservation, focusing on the city's unique and biodiverse ecosystems.
Though enrollment is currently closed, it’s a great opportunity for those interested in STEM to get hands-on experience with marine conservation efforts and learn about sustainability in one of the most beautiful coastal settings in the world.
This program offers teens the chance to volunteer in South Africa, focusing on wildlife conservation. Participants will have the unique opportunity to spot lions, elephants, and other wildlife while engaging in safari conservation efforts.
This hands-on experience helps protect endangered species and supports the preservation of South Africa's diverse ecosystems.
Experience Italy's beauty and history while learning new skills. These summer programs offer a chance to explore Italian culture and gain valuable experiences.
These programs explore art, history, and literature in Europe. If you’re an artist, writer, or culture lover, check them out.
In Rome, Italy, this program explores Italian art, history, and culture. Enrollment is currently closed. Previous participants stayed in hostels or hotels and lived among famous masterpieces.
Also, in Rome, this program is great for aspiring writers. Enrollment is closed. Participants stayed in hostels or hotels and found inspiration from Ancient Rome's myths and legends to create new stories.
This program inspires artists with the Renaissance in Florence, Italy. Enrollment is closed. Past participants stayed in dorms or residence halls and explored Florence's rich artistic heritage.
This program takes you on an art journey across Europe, including Prague and Florence. Enrollment is currently closed. Participants stayed in dorms, residence halls, and hostels, enjoying an artistic adventure.
If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, you might enjoy this program.
Travel to Paris, Milan, and Madrid with this program focused on fashion marketing. Enrollment is closed. Participants stayed in hostels and hotels, exploring the fashion capitals of Europe and gaining industry insights.
These programs help language learners improve their Italian. Whether in Rome or Milan, participants practice Italian and earn college credit. They also experience local culture with homestay families.
This program helps you practice Italian in local shops and markets in Rome. Enrollment is closed. Participants earned college credit and stayed with homestay families.
This program focuses on improving Italian language skills and experiencing local culture in Milan. Enrollment is currently closed. Participants earn college credit and stay with homestay families in Milan's vibrant environment.
Experience Spain's culture and history while learning new skills. These summer programs let you explore Spanish life and gain valuable experiences.
These programs offer the opportunity to experience Spain's culture and improve your Spanish. Let’s get into them.
Ready for a unique challenge in Seville? Earn college credit and stay with a host family. Improve your Spanish while living like a local. Apply now and immerse yourself in Andalusian culture!
Experience Barcelona's rich culture. Enjoy famous food, cafes, and beaches. Earn college credit and stay with a host family. Perfect for language learners. Enrollment is closed. Dive into the artistic spirit of Barcelona!
Strengthen your Spanish in Palma de Mallorca. Enjoy stunning coastal views and vibrant marinas. Earn college credit and stay with a host family. Enrollment is closed. Soak up the island's unique charm!
Boost your Spanish in scenic Alicante. Earn college credit and stay with a host family. Improve your language skills in a Mediterranean setting. Enrollment is closed. Experience the beauty and history of Alicante!
Explore sustainability in Spain's coastal regions. These programs mix STEM education with cultural experiences.
Explore the Mediterranean in Palma de Mallorca. Improve your Spanish and study marine ecosystems. This program includes a homestay and 12 hours of service-learning. Enrollment is closed. Gain hands-on experience in marine sustainability!
Learn about the business world in Spain. These programs offer practical experience and industry insights.
Get an insider's look into sports management in Barcelona. Gain valuable experience in the business of sports. Stay in hostels or hotels. Enrollment is closed. Learn from the home city of FC Barcelona!
Here’s our list of summer programs that are based in Mexico.
Looking to learn or brush up on Spanish? Check out these programs.
The Teen Spanish program at the Spanish Experience Center is fun and engaging. Courses last from 1 to 52 weeks. It is for students aged 12 to 17.
Classes are taught entirely in Spanish, providing a full immersion experience. With a maximum of 5 students per class, teens get personalized attention to help them stay focused and improve their language skills.
Na'atik offers a Teen Spanish Immersion Course. It combines language learning with cultural immersion. For students aged 16 to 19, the program lasts from 1 to 8 weeks. It includes homestays with local families. Teens can also volunteer in the institute's library or English classes. They gain professional development while improving their Spanish.
Ready to make a difference? Youth development initiatives provide opportunities for mentoring, volunteering, and leadership development for teens.
This program in the Yucatan Peninsula focuses on leadership and service. Teens mentor children and learn how NGOs work. They gain valuable experience in youth development.
Participants stay with local families in homestays. They complete 50 hours of service learning. The deadline has been extended, giving more time to apply and develop leadership skills.
To wrap it up, each of these top summer abroad for high school students offers a unique and transformative experience. Whether you're passionate about language immersion, volunteering, global citizenship, cultural exploration, the arts, or simply looking for your next adventure, there's a program out there that suits your interests and goals.
Are you looking into summer abroad programs for high school students? Here are some common questions and answers to help you navigate this exciting opportunity:
Typically, high schoolers do not participate in full semester abroad programs due to academic commitments. However, many organizations offer summer abroad programs, which are shorter and more manageable for high school students. These programs provide a taste of studying abroad without interfering with your regular school year.
Yes, you can study abroad as a junior in high school. Many summer abroad programs are designed specifically for high school students, including juniors. These programs offer a chance to explore new cultures, languages, and experiences during your summer break.
Affording a summer study abroad program is possible through various means. First, research scholarships and grants are available for high school students interested in international programs.
Plus, many program providers understand that studying abroad can be a financial stretch, so they offer flexible payment plans to ease the burden for you and your family.
Are you considering one of these summer abroad programs for high school students? They offer a ton of experiences, from language immersion to community service and cultural exploration. You might just want to add them to your summer checklist.
These programs take your summer break and turn it into a chance for personal growth, cultural awareness, and positive change. So, as you plan your summer, remember that you're not just traveling; you're learning, evolving, and creating lasting memories.
As you get ready to set off on your journey, keep in mind that the world is your classroom. Whether you travel to California, Shanghai, or Cape Town - the lessons you'll learn and the experiences you'll gain will be priceless. Get set to explore, connect, and make a meaningful impact.
.svg)
