5 Best Study Abroad Programs for High School Students

Updated on June 6th, 2024

Study abroad programs for high school students are surprisingly plentiful, creating opportunities for teens to explore the world and experience different cultures. Often, one of the most challenging parts of choosing a program is sorting through all of the options.

Did you know that studying abroad could help your student land scholarships for college? It’s true. If you and your student want to learn about scholarship opportunities, http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar

Many of the study abroad programs for high schoolers are worth considering, but they each have their own benefits and drawbacks. If you and your student are curious about study abroad programs for high school students, the best study abroad opportunities and locations, and why studying high school abroad is worthwhile, here’s what you need to know.

Why Should High School Students Study Abroad?

Studying and living abroad is beneficial for high school and college students, for many reasons. Often, spending time in a different country is an eye-opening experience. It’s a chance to immerse themselves in different cultures and often creates a sense of oneness with the global community and international relations that aren’t captured without this kind of travel.

Additionally, study abroad programs create unique learning opportunities that traditional classrooms can’t offer. It’s a chance to see new perspectives and learn a language through cultural immersion, making students more natural speakers. Plus, they’ll be able to explore historical sites up close instead of through a book or video.

Many study abroad programs for high school students are also highly service-oriented. Students support the local community through volunteerism and community service projects, which is incredibly rewarding and can boost their college applications and scholarship resumes. The study abroad experience and volunteer work may also make students eligible for more scholarship awards, as volunteer hours are a requirement for some scholarships and grants.

Studying abroad also lets high school students learn about themselves. It’s a chance to have an experience outside of their traditional environment, and that’s often very enlightening. As a result, your high school student may return a more self-assured person, which can benefit the high school education for them enormously, moving their personal growth and forward.

What Are the Best Places to Study Abroad for English Speakers?

England is easily one of the best countries to study abroad for English speakers and one of the most popular destinations abroad. Along with English being the primary language, England’s proximity to mainland Europe creates countless benefits and ample opportunities for additional language immersion and cultural exploration of local culture if the university or program allows it.

Australia is likewise one of the best English-speaking countries to study abroad this academic school year. The country’s culture is intriguing, and there are chances to experience environments and see wildlife that doesn’t exist in other areas of the world. Plus, students can potentially spend some time in New Zealand, which is also an English-speaking nation.

However, students don’t have to limit themselves to English-speaking countries. For example, if you’re looking for the best country to study abroad, Germany is a foreign country worth considering. English speakers are pretty common, and language classes are making it easier for students who don’t know German.

Similarly, The Netherlands has plenty of English speakers, and most host families won’t mind if your student doesn’t know any Dutch. In The Netherlands, one of the best cities to study abroad is The Hague (Den Haag), as it’s the seat of government, has a breathtaking coastline, and is brimming with historical architecture.

In many cases, high school students shouldn’t focus on finding the cheapest places to study abroad. Instead, students should focus on their academic goals and finding affordable programs that head to destinations that interest them, preferably those with scholarship opportunities that can reduce the cost even further.

How to Prepare for Studying Abroad as a High Schooler

Studying abroad isn’t something that happens on a whim. Instead, students need to prepare for the experience.

Along with finding a suitable program or internship in popular study abroad destinations, students need to take steps like getting a valid passport, and (if needed) a visa. Many study abroad programs can assist with the required applications, but students will have to handle much of the work.

Additionally, high school students with college applications need to consider when is the best time to head overseas. Choosing a summer study abroad program won’t interfere with their high school experience at home, which has its benefits. However, some students prefer the idea of a summer program to spending a semester or year abroad. With that, students need to research the program to assess the academic quality and courses they’d take, ensuring it aligns with their academic major and their graduation plan.

Further, the timing of a trip impacts packing needs. Weather conditions vary considerably around the world, so students need to make sure they can dress appropriately. It’s also critical to review any packing restrictions to avoid trying to bring items that aren’t allowed.

In many cases of summer travel programs, students should also learn about local laws in the host family destination country that differ from the United States. Some countries have rules that catch visitors off-guard. As a precaution, review materials provided by the program and do additional research to make sure that students traveling won’t accidentally break the host country or law.

5 Best Study Abroad Programs for High School Students

1. INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL EXCHANGE SERVICES

International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) is one of the best high school study abroad programs around. This nonprofit organization is an official J-1 sponsor through the US Department of State and is certified by a wide variety of other organizations.

Through ICES, high school students can explore a range of programs. Plus, the organization handles nearly all of a student’s needs, including arranging accommodations, school placements, flights, medical insurance, emergency support, and more.

2. THE COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL EXCHANGE

Another one of the best study abroad programs for high school students is offered by The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE). The organization has been operating for more than seven decades, and it provides a variety of options for international internships, including summers abroad, semesters abroad, and gap years abroad.

Throughout the available programs, students can potentially visit one of about 50 countries, giving them more options for projects abroad than they may find elsewhere. There are also programs focused on language learning, allowing high school students to fully immerse themselves and speed through language learning programs to up their understanding of different languages.

3. ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE

Offered by Rotary Clubs, the Rotary Youth Exchange gives high school students a chance to explore different cultures and learn languages, turning them into global citizens. Rotary Clubs exist in local communities in over 100 countries, which may give local high school students more options than other such exchange programs do.

Through this program, there are long-term exchanges that last full academic years and short-term options that can range from a few weeks or days to up to three months. Room and board are always handled, though students will need to save money to cover the cost of airfare, travel documents, travel insurance, and general spending money.

4. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC STUDENT EXPEDITIONS

National Geographic Student Expeditions focuses on exploration and international education, allowing students from high school programs, to spend the summer and join the National Geographic Society and Explorers in the field. During the journey, students are assigned to a project, giving them focus and new skills during the experience.

The areas studied can include a cultures rich history, geology, technology, tropical biology, and more, allowing students to focus on programs that spark their interest. Plus, many of the trips and summer programs also focus on photography, giving students a chance to hone those skills and capture images that will help them remember their adventure.

5. MEI INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

MEI International Academy focuses on study abroad programs for high school students. Along with providing access to high school abroad programs and to resources in a wide array of countries, there are semester abroad study programs that offer exceptional academic experiences. MEI carefully plans the journey to optimizing learning through immersive approaches service learning, allowing students to connect with different cultures.

In many cases, students get the chance to visit multiple countries during their study abroad journey. That makes MEI International Academy a standout option for students who want to travel abroad to explore more of the world.

FAQs

What Do Exchange Students Pay For?

Out-of-pocket expenses for exchange students can vary, but some typical costs include program fees, airfare, travel insurance, and visa application fees.

Program fees typically cover core costs. For example, they’ll usually handle expenses related to tuition, housing, meals, and sometimes excursions and activities.

Students might also need to budget for personal expenses, such as local transportation, textbooks, school supplies, and leisure activities. Additional costs may include medical insurance, cellphone plans, and emergency funds.

It’s critical to review the specific program details and plan a budget accordingly, ensuring all potential expenses are considered for a smooth and enjoyable study abroad experience.

Are There Free Study Abroad Programs for High School Students?

Few full-year, full-semester, or summer abroad programs for high school students are free by design. However, high schoolers may find scholarships or grants that functionally make travel abroad programs no-cost. These work by giving students ways to receive financial awards or assistance to handle any expenses related to studying abroad, including for academic year, single-semester, or summer programs.

Additionally, some fully funded exchange programs for high school students may serve a similar purpose. For example, specific exchange programs allow students to head overseas without a notable out-of-pocket cost if their parents serve as a host family for a student from another country. However, these options are much rarer than those that come with some level of out-of-pocket costs, so students and their parents should keep that in mind before counting on this option.

What Year of High School Is Best to Study Abroad?

The best year to study abroad varies, but many students find their junior year ideal. By this time, students typically have a solid academic foundation and are mature enough to handle the challenges of living abroad. Junior year also offers a unique opportunity to enhance college applications, showcasing adaptability and global awareness. However, sophomores and seniors can also benefit from studying abroad, depending on their personal and academic goals.

Regardless of a student’s age, planning carefully before studying abroad is essential. Students need to ensure the study abroad experience aligns with graduation requirements and other academic responsibilities. By doing so, they can keep the rest of their high school career on target.

Does Studying Abroad Look Good on College Applications?

Absolutely! Studying abroad can significantly enhance college applications. Admissions officers value the unique experiences and skills gained from living and learning in a foreign country. It demonstrates independence, cultural awareness, adaptability, and a willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone.

These qualities are highly attractive to colleges seeking well-rounded, globally-minded students. Additionally, the academic rigor and diverse perspectives encountered while studying abroad can enrich a student’s personal and intellectual growth, making them a more compelling candidate for college admission.

Can High School Students Study Abroad with Their High School-Aged Siblings?

Yes, high school students can potentially study abroad with their siblings, provided the program accommodates this arrangement. Many study abroad programs are flexible and can cater to siblings, offering shared housing or similar schedules to ensure they stay together.

This type of travel abroad program for students can provide additional comfort and support, making the experience less daunting and more enjoyable. If this is an option your student (or, in this case, students) wants to explore, it’s essential to communicate with the program coordinators early to discuss specific needs and preferences.

Can High School Students Work While Studying Abroad?

High school students may have limited opportunities to work while studying abroad, depending on the host country’s regulations and visa restrictions. For example, students may need a work visa to engage in any kind of paid employment while they’re in another country. That is particularly challenging to get for high school students, particularly if they’re considered a minor by the nation they’re visiting.

Similarly, study abroad programs may have work-related restrictions. Some may bar students from employment entirely, regardless of whether the student can secure a visa or is otherwise allowed to work in the host nation.

In most cases, students should prioritize their studies and cultural experiences over employment. However, some countries and study abroad programs allow part-time work for students, typically with a cap on hours per week. Before assuming that working is the best choice, students must understand that balancing work and academic responsibilities can be challenging. Additionally, it’s essential to check the specific rules of the study abroad program and the host country before making plans.

Did you know that studying abroad could help your student land scholarships for college? It’s true. If you and your student want to learn about scholarship opportunities, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a quick trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve a spot today.