How International Students Enroll
International students follow the exact same enrollment process as U.S. families; there’s no separate application track, no additional forms, and no location-based restrictions. If you can choose a program, complete the standard application, and submit your deposit, you can enroll.
1. Choose Your Program
Browse programs by destination, duration, or focus area (service learning, adventure travel, language immersion). International students can enroll in any program unless noted otherwise in the description.
2. Submit Your Application
Complete the online form with student details, parent/guardian contact information, and any preliminary travel notes. This is the same application U.S. families complete; no extra documentation required based on nationality.
3. Pay Your Deposit
A deposit secures your spot in the program. International families may pay via credit card, wire transfer, or a payment plan, just like U.S. families.
4. Complete Pre-Departure Forms
You’ll fill out:
- Medical and health history forms
- Emergency contact details
- Flight itinerary once booked
These forms help staff prepare for your arrival and are identical for all students.
5. Prepare for Travel
Before departure, you’ll receive:
- A packing list tailored to your destination
- Cultural preparation resources
- Final travel instructions and meeting-point details for your gateway airport
Enrollment Timeline Tip
Programs fill on a first-come, first-served basis. International families, especially those coordinating long-haul flights, benefit from applying early, particularly for high-demand weeks in June and July.
What to Expect When Traveling From Abroad
The journey from enrollment to arrival day involves several touchpoints designed to prepare both students and parents.
Pre-Departure Communication
Once enrolled, you’ll receive a series of communications covering:
- Detailed packing lists tailored to your specific program and destination
- Flight booking guidelines with recommended arrival windows
- Health and vaccination recommendations
- Cultural preparation materials for your destination
- Emergency contact information and communication protocols
International families receive the same comprehensive preparation materials as U.S. families, with additional guidance relevant to international travel logistics.
Airport Arrival Process
Rustic Pathways staff meet students at the gateway airport on arrival day. After clearing immigration and customs, students are greeted by staff in uniform and guided to a holding area. Once all students arrive, the group transfers together. Staff assist with delays, lost luggage, or any arrival concerns.
Time Zone Adjustments
Program schedules adapt to time zone differences. Light activities and early bedtimes on the first day support adjustment. Staff watch for jet lag and make sure students rest before intensive programming begins.
What International Students Around the World Are Saying
Each year, students from more than 50 countries join Rustic Pathways programs. Here’s what international students had to say about their experiences, in their own words.
Christina M. — Cape Town, South Africa
“Wanting to do a Rustic Trip? Do it. Do a Rustic Trip. I promise you, you won’t regret it. Still unsure? Do it anyways. Because you’ll find afterwards, that it was probably one of the best experiences of your life.”
Connor C. — Den Haag, Netherlands
“My vacation experiences will never be the same after this trip.”
Jarred F. — Cape Town, South Africa
“My trip to Laos was a memorable one and a very character developing one… the living like the locals experience, was something lots of kids need to have.”
Catalina V. — Valencia, Spain
“In our group we were 11 and there were 6 different nationalities in it, we discovered a new culture together but above all that we are all the same at the end of the day.”
Hinako T. — Tokyo, Japan
“Don’t ever think about pretending to be cool in front of your group. Cuz they are your family from another planet.”
Mansi G. — Singapore
“It was the most enriching experience I’ve had in a long time. Filled with opportunities to learn and hone our skills, we were able to bond with each other and get WFA training in the best possible way.”
Explore Rustic Pathways programs for international students.
