Top 5 study abroad programs for gap year students

What are gap year programs?

A gap year program provides hands-on learning experiences while taking a break from academics or work.  These programs frequently emphasize cultural immersion through travel, and one can customize it in various ways. It includes destination and activities such as adventure travel or language immersion. When it comes to organizing a gap year, the options are almost limitless. Let’s find out some study abroad programs for gap year students and how you can identify the best among them.

How to choose the ideal gap year program?

When deciding on a gap year program, it’s essential to consider your specific goals. You can consider going for a gap year program if you want to enhance your career prospects or pursue a different educational path.

Reviews and alumni experience

When looking for the best gap year programs, read internet reviews but also ask the organization for contact information of alumni with whom you may speak. Hearing from others who have gone through the experience will help you best evaluate it, listen to it all, and determine if it suits you.

Clarity of information

The finest gap year organizations make program details easily accessible without making you jump through hurdles. You can get program details online or from a representative, including prices, curriculum, lodging, food, and travel logistics.

Organizational partnership

While some outstanding programs have no partner organizations to operate their facilities, most top gap year programs are affiliated with, or collaborate with other reputable organizations. Inquire about university or organizational partners, and look into organizations where you could intern or volunteer as part of the program. If you believe in the mission of such organizations, the program is more likely to be a suitable fit for your ambitions.

Local culture, environment, and individuals

Choose a gap year program that values and respects the country you’ll visit, prioritizes local control, treats local staff well, and provides local culture and language instruction. Volunteer for ongoing projects in a localized and informed manner, and select an organization that keeps up with the latest advancements.

Top study abroad programs for gap year students

1. Warriors Academy in South Africa

The cost for this package is $6,200. It includes accommodation, meals, activities, local transportation, and equipment. The age range for eligibility is 18 to 23.

The year-long program has four action-packed adventures corresponding to the seasons. During the 7-week program, participants will engage in fun activities while developing critical soft skills that will help them succeed in university, the professional world, and life. The Academy emphasizes community service, self-development, environmental awareness, and job preparedness activities to provide students with a well-rounded gap year experience.

The Academy has over 16 years of expertise, enabling gap years, and has high regard from program alumni. Participants are signing up for a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Still, they will face a challenge to become more critical thinkers, problem solvers, and confident individuals.

2. Irish Gap Year Leadership Program

The program costs $18,309 (€17,000) for either 75 days in the fall or 78 days in the spring. It includes accommodation, meals, activities, local transportation, equipment, and 24-hour support. To be eligible for the program, you must be between the ages of 18 and 22.

Suppose you want to develop your leadership skills, contribute to the community through service, and experience Irish culture; in that case, the Irish Gap Year Adventure and Leadership Program is an excellent opportunity. The program includes challenging wilderness activities that test your physical and mental abilities.

The Adventure and Leadership program extends beyond wilderness camping, surfing in Donegal Bay, and visiting towns around Ireland. Throughout the two-and-a-half-month program, ‘gappers’ will focus on ‘4 cornerstones’ to educate soft skills and build independence. The cornerstones are outdoor adventure, leadership skills, cultural immersion, and community service.

3. Plan My Gap Year in Ghana

The cost for a two-week stay is $375. It includes accommodation, meals, airport transportation, a SIM card, on-site assistance, and a certificate of completion. The program is open to individuals aged 17 and above.

Volunteering in Ghana with Plan My Gap Year (PMGY) promotes community development projects ranging from English teaching to childcare in Kumasi, Ghana. Volunteers will attend an orientation with the local team before working on projects in schools or hospitals. Projects range in duration from 2 weeks to 5.5 months.

Gappers will share housing in a volunteer house outside of town. It’s a great chance to socialize with fellow volunteers. All potential volunteers need to undergo a background check. You must present appropriate credentials for healthcare-related projects.

4. Art History Abroad in Italy

A 6-week program in Italy costs $16,000 (£12,840), including accommodation, transportation throughout Italy, breakfast, and museum fees. The program is open to individuals between the ages of 18 and 24.

Travel throughout Italy with Art History Abroad on a 6-week gap year course, learning each city’s history, art, architecture, politics, and culture. Enjoy local cuisine, literature, and music while participating in hands-on workshops and touring historic sites nationwide.

Gappers will acquire an authentic experience and an in-depth understanding of Italy, Italian culture, and some of the region’s most outstanding artistic achievements. Participants will be challenged to enhance their creative approach and earn foreign experience that will last long after the program has concluded.

5. VACorps internships in South Africa

The three-month cost is $3,475, which covers personalized placement, regular check-ins, and optional weekly excursions. The program is available for individuals who are 18 years old and above.

VACorps provides a unique internship program overseas in Cape Town, South Africa. Many students aim to make their gap year more adventurous, and VACorps offers the opportunity to achieve both goals simultaneously. Don’t be concerned if there isn’t an internship placement for your degree or interest; VACorps offers internships in various sectors, including human rights, journalism, law, marketing, and many more. You’ll live with other gap year participants and learn a new sense of freedom and potential. Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a one-of-a-kind way to travel meaningfully!

Key takeaways

• Gap-year programs allow students to immerse themselves in new cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding and personal growth.
• Gap-year programs often focus on skill-building, offering language courses, leadership development, and experiential learning opportunities.
• Study-abroad experiences can enhance employability by showcasing global competence, language proficiency, and intercultural skills.
• South Africa, Ireland, Italy, and Ghana provide the best gap year programs.
• The program costs range from $375 to  $18,309, depending on the duration, accommodation, and facilities.

Please share your comments below and let us know how this information has benefited you. For more details about scholarships and courses to study abroad, feel free to reach out to us by clicking here.

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FAQs

Q1. Can I study abroad if I have a gap year?

Answer- Most countries worldwide, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, China, and Japan acknowledge study gaps. Nevertheless, you must demonstrate that your gap year was meaningful and that you can contribute something distinctive to your chosen educational institution.

Q2. How can I finance a study-abroad program for my gap year?

Answer- Financing a study-abroad program for a gap year can be done through various means. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities specific to study-abroad are available for students. Additionally, part-time work, fundraising efforts, or utilizing savings can help cover costs. 

Q3. Is a 7-year gap in education acceptable in the USA?

Answer- Even if there has been a gap of 7 years in their studies, students are still eligible to apply for admission to institutes in the USA.