Studying abroad can be an enriching and worthwhile experience for tweens and teens, providing them with a unique view of the world. But with so many programs to choose from, it may be daunting trying to identify which is the right one for your student.
Many high schools provide their own study abroad programs to make the process of applying and transferring credits easier, while students can also enroll in programs offered by outside organizations specializing in travel and language learning. Programs range from one week to a full year in length with options ranging from internships, volunteerism and language immersion programs as well as cultural exchange.
Some programs are run by non-profit organizations such as CIEE (Centre for International Education and Exchange). They offer Summer, Semester, and Academic Year High School Study Abroad programs in Botswana, China, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan Mexico Spain Tanzania with almost every aspect of a trip covered, such as enrollment at local high schools; housing/meals arrangements; predeparture orientation/arrival orientation arrangements/flight arrangements insurance 24 hour support support
Sustainable Summer, another popular organization, offers travel opportunities focusing on sustainable living to Costa Rica, Ecuador and the Galapagos for high school students aged 15-18. This program teaches environmental sustainability through international travel while including hands-on fieldwork activities at sustainable farms as well as scholarship options available through Global Vision International (GVI).