Summer programs for high school students abroad offer transformative growth opportunities, from volunteering with elephants in Thailand to exploring ancient ruins in Greece. These programs range from a few weeks to an entire summer and cater to diverse interests through cultural immersion, community service, and language learning experiences.
My first high school trip abroad completely changed my life’s direction. Since that pivotal summer experience, I’ve traveled to 30 countries and spent seven years living and working in South Korea.
That initial international experience taught me essential life skills, prepared me for college, and opened my eyes to a world far beyond my American suburban community. For some students, this kind of early exposure also shapes the decision to consider a gap year abroad after graduation, choosing programs in countries that align with their goals and budget.
Participating in a summer program abroad during high school can be truly life-changing. Choosing a high school summer abroad program ensures students combine travel with meaningful growth. This guide will help you navigate the key factors in selecting and preparing for the right program to set you or a teenager in your life up for an unforgettable 2026 summer adventure.
Illustration of summer programs for high schoolers featuring hands-on STEM building. Hand-drawn illustration for editorial use.
How We Evaluated the Best Summer Programs for High School Students
Not every “best summer program” list is created the same. For this guide, programs were evaluated using criteria that matter most to high school students and parents: safety, supervision, educational value, cost transparency, and the overall quality of the experience.
When we mention “top-rated” programs, we prioritize providers and itineraries that are built specifically for teens and that clearly explain what’s included, how students are supervised, and how day-to-day activities support real learning and growth.
Our evaluation criteria
Safety & supervision: Staff experience, emergency planning, local partnerships, and the ability to support teen well-being.
Program design for high school students: Age-appropriate independence, structured days, and a balance of guidance and freedom.
Learning value: Cultural immersion, language practice, service learning design, reflection, and meaningful activities beyond sightseeing.
Cost clarity: Transparent program pricing, what’s included, and realistic expectations for additional costs (like airfare and spending money).
Track record & reviews: Program ratings and feedback where available, alongside provider experience running teen travel programs.
Note: Exact costs, availability, and published ratings can change over time. Where we list third-party program details, they reflect what was available at the time of access.
How Much Do Summer Programs for High School Students Abroad Cost?
Summer programs for high school students abroad cost between $2,000 and $15,000, depending on the location, program type and what is included. For a one to three week summer program, the average cost per day is $370, which includes everything except the airfare to the destination.
A week-long program to the Dominican Republic can cost $2,595 plus airfare, while a month-long summer study abroad program in Northern Italy can cost $12,000 before flights.
The cost of a summer program for high school students abroad is typically higher than summer camp in the U.S. The average summer camp costs $173 per night, with ranges from $50 to $500+ according to the American Camp Association (ACA).
Programs abroad are a bigger investment than many domestic options, but they can offer unique benefits—like cultural immersion, language practice, and structured service learning—within a supervised environment.
Here is a summary of the typical costs of a summer program abroad:
Area
Description
Cost
Tuition/Program Fee
Program fees for courses and activities
$1,000 – $6,000
Accommodation*
Homestay, dormitory, or apartment costs
$700 – $3,200 per week
On the Ground Transportation*
Private and public transportation in country
$50 – $300
Daily Expenses
Food and meals not included in the program, entertainment, and leisure activities
$30 – $50 per day
Health Insurance
Travel insurance with health coverage
$150 – $500
Airfare
Chaperoned or personal flights to and from the destination
$800 – $3,000
Additional Costs
Visa and passport fees, vaccinations, study materials, phone and internet, emergency funds and personal expenses
Varies
*Typically included in the program fee
Many programs bundle and organize all of these expenses into one, all-inclusive price. It’s hard to put a price tag on a transformative experience, but we know that a $5,000 summer trip is quite daunting.
Thankfully, there are many ways to fund high school trips abroad, including scholarships and fundraising opportunities.
How to pay for summer programs abroad?
A high school student can pay for a summer program abroad through scholarships, fundraising and personal savings. Apply for a travel scholarship to offset some of the costs and make a summer program a bit more affordable. Here are some scholarship opportunities for high school students to go abroad for the summer:
As a high school student, fundraising within your family and community is another great way to pay for a summer program abroad. Summer programs are not only transformative travel experiences, but also offer the opportunity to do community service abroad. Family members and others in your community can be lifelines in supporting your journey in working on meaningful projects abroad.
Here are some fundraising ideas you can do as a high school student:
run a “service-a-thon” in your local community
organize a party, concert, dinner party, or movie screening
make the most of your birthday
don’t forget the classics – car washes, bake sales, raffles and garage sales
What is the cheapest country for summer programs abroad?
The cheapest country for a summer program abroad for high school students is Mexico. The average cost for seven days in Mexico is $1,402 without airfare. The most budget-friendly region for summer programs abroad is Africa, with an average per-week cost of $2,007. As a general rule, longer trips become much cheaper on a per-day basis but have a higher upfront cost.
We analyzed over 400 program offerings from the top service providers for summer programs abroad for high school students to find the most affordable program currently available. Here are the average costs for each region:
Region
Average Weekly Cost (No Airfare)
Africa
$2,007
South America
$2,205
Central America
$2,302
Asia
$2,371
Europe
$2,423
North America
$2,538
Caribbean
$2,556
Oceania
$2,618
What is the cheapest country for study abroad summer programs for high school students?
India is the cheapest country for study abroad summer programs. When thinking about longer programs with non-inclusive pricing or a full summer study abroad, you need to consider the cost of living. The good news is that the cost of living in the U.S. is one of the highest in the world.
Odds are that the country you are considering for a summer abroad will be cheaper. India has a cost of living index of 21.2, meaning it is 70% cheaper in India.
Indonesia is one of the cheapest English-speakingcountries to study abroad, with 30% of the population speaking English as a second language. Putting it in the context of the cost of a Big Mac, you will pay only $2.46 in Indonesia compared to $5.69 in the U.S. Choosing Indonesia for a summer study abroad program means you can order your Big Mac in English and pay 50% less than in the U.S. It’s quite the deal when you are a McDonald’s fanatic with an adventurer’s heart.
Take a look at the cost of living in the most popular countries for high school students:
Types of Summer Programs for High School Students Abroad
Types of summer programs for high school students abroad include language immersion, cultural immersion, volunteering and service learning, adventure and summer study abroad. Each different type of program can be a transformative travel experience and offers experiential learning that goes far beyond classroom lessons. Let’s take a closer look at the most common types summer programs abroad:
Language Immersion
Language immersion programs for high school students focus on enhancing language skills by immersing students in a country where the language is spoken. These programs often include structured classes, as well as opportunities for real-world practice through interactions with locals.
Students in Spain often return home with stronger Spanish language skills that benefit them in school and beyond.
Average Duration: 2 to 4 weeks
Top Destinations for Language Immersion Programs: France Spain China
Summer Study Abroad
Summer study abroad programs offer high school students the opportunity to take academic courses in a foreign country. These programs typically include classroom instruction, field trips and cultural activities, providing a well-rounded educational experience that extends beyond traditional learning environments. Summer study abroad programs also have the opportunity to count for college credits. For the academic-focused student, it’s the perfect opportunity to get a leg up when you start college while having the summer adventure of your lifetime.
Average Duration: 3+ weeks
Top Destinations for Summer Study Abroad:
United Kingdom Germany Japan
Cultural Immersion
Cultural immersion programs provide students with the chance to experience and understand different cultures. These programs often involve living with host families, participating in local traditions, and engaging in cultural activities that foster mutual understanding and appreciation.
Average Duration: 1 to 2 weeks
Top Destinations: Italy Thailand India
Volunteering & Service Learning
Volunteering and service learning programs allow students to contribute to communities in need while learning valuable life skills. These programs combine hands-on service projects with educational components, helping students develop a sense of social responsibility and global awareness. Working alongside a host community helps students understand local challenges and contributions firsthand.
Average Duration: 1 to 2 weeks
Top Destinations for Volunteering & Service Learning: Thailand South Africa Fiji
Sustainability & Conservation
Sustainability and conservation programs focus on hands-on experience with environmental and conservation projects. As a high school student, you can help protect sea turtles in Costa Rica from poachers or learn about the sustainability and supply chain of the coffee industry. These programs give a real-life experience of the efforts people around the world are making to do their part to save and improve the world we all live in.
Average Duration: 1 to 3 weeks
Top Destinations for Sustainability Programs: Costa Rica Indonesia Ecuador
Adventure Programs
Adventure programs are for students seeking excitement and physical challenges. These programs often include activities such as hiking, rafting, and other outdoor adventures, promoting teamwork, resilience, and a love for the natural world.
Top Countries for Summer Programs for High School Students Abroad
The top countries for summer programs abroad are Japan, Italy and Costa Rica. For high school students spending the summer abroad, factors like safety, cultural immersion and adventure opportunities are all important when choosing where to go.
5 of the Best Countries for Summer Programs Abroad
Japan
Japan offers far more than pop culture—students can experience a blend of modern cities, traditional arts, and hands-on learning that makes it a standout destination for first-time teen travelers.
Program Type: Cultural Immersion, Service Learning
Provider: Travel for Teens
Duration: 17 days
Price: $7,595 (+$600 rail pass + self-airfare)
Traveler Rating: 5.00 ⭐ (7 reviews)
Thailand
Thailand is the classic backpacker’s paradise of South East Asia. Being a haven for for backpackers transitions perfectly into being a fantastic country for high school summer programs abroad. With a mix of adventure, culture immersion and unfathomably kind locals, Thailand easily makes the list as one of the best countries for summer programs abroad.
Best for:
Adventure Travel
Cultural Immersion
Budget Travel
Nature Exploration
Top-rated programs in Thailand
Thailand Adventurer
Program Type: Conservation, Volunteer & Service Learning and Adventure Travel
There is a reason that Italy is the most popular destination for U.S. study abroad students in the world. There’s fantastic food, the history is unparalleled and the country is beautiful. Did I mention the gelato? A summer program abroad in Italy can never go wrong, and is the perfect destination for first-time travelers and high school students.
Costa Rica is one of the most widely accessible foreign countries for a summer program abroad. You can experience just about every program type in Costa Rica, from adventure programs that take you rafting or scuba diving to turtle conservation projects that help rescue sea turtles. Costa Rica’s accessible and affordable flights combined with one of the best selections of high school summer programs make it one of our picks for the best countries for high school students.
Best for:
Eco-Adventure
Wildlife Exploration
Outdoor Activities
Environmental Conservation
Top-Rated Programs in Costa Rica
Costa Rica: Turtle Conservation Project
Program Type: Conservation, Adventure Travel and Service Learning
Peru is a country you will not regret visiting as a high school student. The world has only a few new wonders, seven to be exact, and Machu Picchu firmly deserves its place on that list. Summer programs abroad to Peru take you to places like Machu Picchu and other ancient Incan sites. The ancient culture combined with modern traditions, make Peru a country filled with cultural immersion opportunities and a top contender for anyone considering a summer program abroad.
Best for:
Ancient Civilizations
Cultural Immersion
Adventure Travel
Spanish Language Immersion
Top-rated programs in Peru
Peru Service
Program Type: Adventure Travel, Cultural Immersion, Service Learning
Provider: Travel for Teens
Duration: 11 days
Price: $4,295 (+ self-airfare)
Traveler Rating: 5.00 ⭐ (10 reviews)
Peru: Sacred Valley Service
Program Type: Cultural Immersion, Service Learning
Program Type: Cultural Immersion, Adventure Travel
Provider: Where There Be Dragons
Duration: 28 days
Price: $4,195 (+ mandatory group airfare)
Traveler Rating: 5.00 ⭐ (10 reviews)
Which country is the best for high school students?
England is one of the best countries for high school students, offering a balance of safety, language accessibility, program availability and cultural richness. Other top contenders include Spain and Japan, which also provide a variety of well-structured programs in safe environments, making them excellent choices for a summer abroad.
Which country is the best for a student on a budget?
Mexico is one of the best countries for students on a budget, thanks to its low average daily program costs and affordable flights from the U.S. Thailand and Costa Rica are also budget-friendly options with cultural immersion and adventure opportunities without breaking the bank.
Tips for Choosing a Destination Country
1
Consider Your Interests
Think about what you love to do and topics you care about. Whether it’s adventure, cultural experiences, or environmental conservation, choose a destination that aligns with your interests to make your travel experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.
2
Think About Your Likes and Dislikes
Reflect on the type of environment you most enjoy, such as the city or countryside, and the climate you prefer. Deciding whether you’d like beaches, mountains, or a mix of both can help narrow down your options.
3
Be Mindful of the Distance
Decide how far you are willing to travel. In the case that you prefer to stay closer to home for comfort and convenience, there are plenty of excellent destinations nearby. Long-distance trips are great for those looking for completely new experiences.
4
Review Your Budget
Set a budget for your trip and consider destinations that fit within it. Ensure you know what is included in the cost of your program, such as food, housing, and transportation, to avoid any surprises.
5
Take Age Into Account
Younger travelers may prefer destinations with more familiar amenities and less in-country travel. Choose programs that provide a balance between new experiences and comfort.
6
Consider Your Career and College Aspirations
Travel can be a great way to explore potential college majors or career paths. Choose destinations that offer experiences relevant to your future plans, such as environmental science or international relations.
7
Evaluate the Landscape
Decide what kind of scenery you want to experience, whether it’s beaches, mountains, jungles, or historic sites. The type of landscape can greatly enhance your travel experience.
8
Look at the Program Type
Choose a program that fits your goals, whether it’s service-oriented, adventure-based, or focused on cultural immersion. Some programs offer a mix of these elements, providing a well-rounded experience.
9
Assess the Accommodations
Review the accommodation options provided by the program. Some might involve camping or rustic facilities, while others offer more comfortable lodging. Choose based on your comfort level and preferences.
10
Check the Travel Time Available
Consider how much time you have for travel. Shorter trips might be better spent closer to home, while longer trips allow for more extensive exploration and immersion in the destination.
Benefits of Doing a Summer Program Abroad in High School
Summer programs abroad in high school are transformative experiences that offer opportunities for personal growth and a step up academically. Programs abroad provide a platform for you to explore new cultures, develop critical skills and gain a competitive edge in college applications. Some of the many benefits of traveling abroad in high school include:
Identify Interests and Passions: By immersing in new environments, you can discover what they are passionate about and gain insights into potential fields of study for college.
Develop a Global Perspective: Traveling abroad helps you understand diverse cultures and perspectives, fostering leadership skills and creative problem-solving.
Enhance Cultural Sensitivity: Working with people from various backgrounds helps you develop empathy and cultural awareness, essential skills in our interconnected world.
Implement Impactful Projects: You learn how to design and execute projects that positively affect communities, enhancing their understanding of social responsibility.
Sharpen Critical Skills: Experiences abroad build critical skills like self-awareness, adaptability and resilience, contributing to overall personal growth.
Do summer programs look good on college applications?
Absolutely, summer programs look great on college applications, especially programs in another country. A summer program during high school is a great way to add that extra special touch to your college application. Colleges are increasingly looking beyond grades and test scores to understand a student’s character, experiences and potential contributions to their campus community. Here’s how a summer program abroad can make your application stand out:
Demonstrate Initiative and Independence: Traveling abroad shows that you are proactive and capable of stepping out of your comfort zone to pursue new experiences.
Showcase Cultural Competence: Experience in diverse settings demonstrates your ability to interact and collaborate with people from different cultures, a valuable trait in today’s globalized society.
Highlight Commitment to Service: Many summer programs involve community service, showcasing your dedication to making a positive impact and your ability to work on meaningful projects.
Build a Compelling Narrative: The experiences and stories from your travels provide priceless material for essays and interviews. There is just something a bit more compelling when telling the story of how you pushed your physical and mental limits climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro or gained an appreciation for wildlife after saving baby sea turtles from poachers. What will your story be?
“Traveling with Rustic as a teenager allowed me to place myself in the context of the larger world, which was really, really powerful. This allowed me to see myself in my true sense. After my experiences in Peru and India with Rustic, I began attaching myself to the idea that I was going to be a citizen of the world.”
Where Will You Stay? Summer Program Accommodations
Summer program accommodations are normally arranged by program providers to ensure the best possible experience for the program. The most common accommodations on programs are homestays, basehouses, hotels, apartments, youth hostels, and dormitories.
Don’t forget that you will be living in a foreign country that might have different living standards than you are used to. Having grown up in an air-conditioned or die state, Arizona, it took some adjusting to places without widespread AC. Accommodations are a central component and where you will stay during a summer program abroad can change everything about your experience.
These are the different types of accommodations and what you can expect:
Type
Description
Pros
Cons
Homestay
Living with a local host family
Immersive cultural experience, language practice, personal support from host family
Potential cultural differences, varying quality of accommodation
Basehouse
Structured camp-style accommodation, living together with your group of fellow travelers
Highly supervised, many organized activities, social interaction with a large group
Less freedom, can feel restrictive, shared facilities
Hotel
Private rooms in a hotel, providing a higher standard of comfort and amenities
High comfort level, private facilities, professional service
Higher cost, less interaction with local culture
Camping
Sleeping in tents or outdoor shelters, typically in natural or remote areas
Close connection with nature, often in scenic locations, fosters a sense of adventure and teamwork.
Basic amenities, exposure to weather conditions, limited comfort and privacy.
Apartment
Independent living in a rented apartment, usually shared with other students
Greater independence, more privacy, experience living like a local
Higher cost, requires self-management of meals and cleaning
Youth Hostel
Budget accommodation with shared rooms and facilities, often used by travelers and students
Affordable, social environment, often located in central areas
Limited privacy, potential noise, varying quality
Dormitory
Shared living spaces in a dormitory, often within a school or campus environment
Social interaction with peers, structured environment, often close to program activities
Less privacy, potential noise, shared facilities
Why Safety is Important in High School Summer Travel Programs
Safety is exceptionally important, particularly for high school students traveling abroad on a summer program. Having an enriching and transformative experience is great and all, but it means nothing when your physical and mental safety is not guaranteed. Any country can be safe as long as proper precautions and measures are in place. Safety depends on preparation, local knowledge, and strong in-country systems—not just the destination itself. The provider’s planning and protocols matter most.
Ensuring a safe and enriching summer program starts with the program provider. When choosing a program, don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions about safety. The best program providers will have a strong track record and comprehensive safety protocols.
Key safety measures include:
Experienced Leaders and Staff: Program leaders should have certifications in first aid and CPR, with extensive training in handling emergencies and supporting student well-being.
Comprehensive Planning and Local Knowledge: Programs should be held in well-vetted locations with established community partnerships, ensuring familiarity with local conditions and reducing risks.
Medical and Emergency Support: Ensure the program has access to medical consultations and emergency services and gathers detailed health information from participants to cater to specific medical needs.
Travel Insurance: Encouraging or, better yet, requiring travel insurance helps cover unexpected medical expenses and other emergencies, providing extra peace of mind.
About This Guide
This guide is written to help families compare summer programs for high school students with a focus on practical decision factors like supervision, safety planning, learning value, and cost clarity.
Why you can trust Rustic Pathways on teen travel
Teen-first program design: Rustic Pathways programs are built specifically for middle and high school students, with age-appropriate structure and support.
Experienced leaders: Rustic Pathways programs are led by trained staff with established on-the-ground systems for student support.
Safety planning: Rustic Pathways believes student travel requires more than “good intentions”—it requires planning, local knowledge, and clear protocols.
If you have questions about choosing a destination, program type, or what’s included, you can talk with our program advisors.
Looking beyond summer programs?
If a few weeks is not enough, semester programs abroad can provide deeper cultural immersion while still fitting within a school year schedule.
Our Gap Year Series highlights how taking a year off before college can expand your horizons:
Yes, high school students can study abroad through full academic-year exchange programs as well as shorter programs during spring and summer breaks. Some students also participate in exchange programs that allow them to live abroad with a host family for an extended period.
What is the youngest age to study abroad?
The youngest age to study abroad depends on the program provider. Programs exist for a wide range of ages, including elementary and middle school students, although most options are designed for high school and college students.
Do you need a high GPA to study abroad?
A high GPA is not required to study abroad. Many programs have no GPA requirement, while others may ask for a minimum GPA, often around 3.0. Some programs, such as language immersion courses, may require prior language study. It is still worth applying even if you do not meet every listed requirement.
Is it better to study abroad in summer?
Studying abroad in the summer allows students to experience a new culture and gain independence without interrupting the school year. Summer programs typically offer more time for immersion than short school breaks and require less commitment than a full academic year.
Can I study abroad the summer after I graduate high school?
Yes. Many students choose to participate in gap year programs, which are designed specifically for recent high school graduates and typically last from a few months to a year or more. Students planning to enroll in college can also review our college gap year deferral guide to learn how to postpone admission step by step.
Start with our three most-loved regions for first-time travelers. Perfect for high schoolers and parents who want a balance of adventure, safety, and meaningful impact.
France
Spain
China
United Kingdom
Germany
Japan
Italy
Thailand
India
South Africa
Fiji
Costa Rica
Indonesia
Ecuador
Iceland
Peru
