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. Participating in a summer program abroad during high school can be truly life-changing. 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 2025 summer adventure. In this guide, we’ll take a look at: 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 on average is more expensive 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). A summer program abroad doesn’t come cheaply, but offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. When it’s between a week exploring the marine ecosystems in the Dominican Republic and staying in another log cabin by some random lake, I’d be choosing island life any day. 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 a 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: Scholarships for High School Students Scholarship Destination Provider Application Deadline Service Scholarship Costa Rica, Thailand, Dominican Republic, USA, Fiji, South Korea, Australia Rustic Pathways Rolling Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program (CBYX) Germany U.S. Department of State November Future Leaders Exchange Abroad (FLEX Abroad) Georgia, Kazakhstan, Poland U.S. Department of State 2025-2026 Program TBD Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Abroad Middle East, Africa, Asia, Southeast Europe U.S. Department of State 2025-2026 Program TBD National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) Various (Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Indonesian, Korean, Persian, Russian, Turkish) U.S. Department of State 2025-2026 Program TBD Ayn Rand Essay Contests Various Ayn Rand Institute September 2024 National Geographic Slingshot Various National Geographic February 7, 2025 NSHSS Foundation Scholarships Various National Society of High School Scholars Rolling Fundraising 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 find a part-time job Learn more tips for how you can fundraise as a high school student for a summer program abroad. 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 summer programs for high school students abroad? 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-speaking countries 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: Country Cost of Living Index (1) Big Mac Index English Speakers EF English Proficiency Index (2) United States 70.4 $5.69 95% Native India 21.2 (-49.2) $2.75 10% Moderate proficiency Indonesia 26.7 (-43.7) $2.46 31% Low proficiency Vietnam 28.7 (-41.7) $3.01 5% Moderate proficiency Argentina 29.4 (-41.0) $6.55 7% High proficiency Peru 30.0 (-40.4) $4.55 11% Moderate proficiency Brazil 30.2 (-40.2) $4.23 5% Low proficiency China 31.7 (-38.7) $3.53 1% Low proficiency Thailand 34.1 (-36.3) $3.79 27% Very low proficiency South Africa 34.5 (-35.9) $2.85 31% Very high proficiency Mexico 40.2 (-30.2) $5.10 13% Low proficiency Hungary 41.7 (-28.7) $3.90 25% High proficiency Portugal 45.1 (-25.3) $3.90 27% Very high proficiency Japan 46.1 (-24.3) $3.19 15% Low proficiency Czech Republic 46.6 (-23.8) $4.63 51% High proficiency Spain 47.3 (-23.1) $4.80 22% Moderate proficiency Greece 52.0 (-18.4) $4.10 51% Very high proficiency Costa Rica 52.3 (-18.1) $5.62 8% Moderate proficiency Italy 56.2 (-14.2) $5.10 14% Moderate proficiency Sweden 59.3 (-11.1) $5.60 89% Very high proficiency South Korea 60.1 (-10.3) $3.99 18% Moderate proficiency Belgium 61.1 (-9.3) $5.00 60% Very high proficiency United Kingdom 62.0 (-8.4) $6.06 98% Native Germany 62.2 (-8.2) $6.06 91% Very high proficiency Netherlands 63.1 (-7.3) $6.06 70% High proficiency Finland 63.2 (-7.2) $6.06 57% Moderate proficiency France 63.7 (-6.7) $6.06 98% Native Ireland 64.4 (-6.0) $6.06 98% Native New Zealand 64.6 (-5.8) $4.99 83% Native Canada 64.8 (-5.6) $5.52 73% Very high proficiency Austria 65.1 (-5.3) $4.20 93% Native Australia 70.2 (-0.2) $5.06 86% Very high proficiency Denmark 72.3 (+1.9) $5.66 90% Very high proficiency Norway 76.0 (+5.6) $6.77 96% Very high proficiency Singapore 76.7 (+6.3) $4.97 98% Native Iceland 83.0 (+12.6) No McDonalds 61% High proficiency Switzerland 101.1 (+30.7) $8.07 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. 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. 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. 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. Average Duration: 1 to 2 weeks Top Destinations for Adventure Programs: Fiji Iceland Peru
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. We have been taking high school students to 38+ different countries for decades now. Here are our picks for the best countries for high school summer programs abroad and top-rated programs. 5 of the Best Countries for Summer Programs Abroad Japan Japan is not just for otakus (a person obsessed with Japanese pop culture). Tourists from the United States have more than tripled in the last two decades, and for good reason. Japan sits right at the edge of modernity and tradition, highlighting the thin border between the past and future. Japan is one of our favorite upcoming travel destinations for high school students that checks all of the boxes in all the right places. Best for: STEM Programs Cultural Immersion Safety Modern Technology Top-rated programs in Japan Japan: Language & Culture Program Type: Language Immersion Provider: The Experiment Duration: 22 days Price: $8,442 (+$1,806 group airfare) Traveler Rating: 4.92 ⭐ (13 reviews) Japan: Tokyo Fusion Program Type: Cultural Immersion Provider: Rustic Pathways Duration: 8 days Price: $3,295 (+ $1,497 group airfare) Traveler Rating: 5.00 ⭐ (6 reviews) LEARN MORE Japan Discovery and Service 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) Program details and review ratings were accessed on 08/15/2024. 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 Provider: Rustic Pathways Duration: 16 days Price: $2,100 (+ group airfare) Traveler Rating: 4.94 ⭐ (106 reviews) LEARN MORE Thailand: Elephant & Education Initiative Program Type: Conservation, Volunteer & Service Learning Provider: Global Leadership Adventure Duration: 14 days Price: $4,499 (+ self-airfare) Traveler Rating: 4.97 ⭐ (31 reviews) Thailand Elephant Service and the Islands Program Type: Conservation, Volunteer & Service Learning Provider: Travel For Teens Duration: 17 days Price: $6,395 (+$400 intra-trip flight + self-airfare) Traveler Rating: 5.00 ⭐ (20 reviews) Program details and review ratings were accessed on 08/15/2024. Italy 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. Best for: Historical Exploration Culinary Experiences Cultural Immersion Art and Architecture Top-rated programs in Italy Language Camp in Italy Program Type: Language Immersion Provider: Green Heart Duration: 1–4 weeks Price: 1 week: $1,940 2 weeks: $2,920 3 weeks: $3,810 4 weeks: $4,710 (+ self-airfare) Traveler Rating: 5.00 ⭐ (3 reviews) Italy: Culinary Training & Culture Program Type: Cultural Immersion, Study Abroad Provider: The Experiment Duration: 29 days Price: $8,304.00 ($1,708.00+ group airfare) Traveler Rating: 4.83 ⭐ (12 reviews) Northern Italy Adventure Program Type: Cultural Immersion Provider: Rustic Pathways Duration: 8 days Price: $3,395 (+ $1,995 group airfare) Traveler Rating: 4.84 ⭐ (3 reviews) LEARN MORE Program details and review ratings were accessed on 08/15/2024. Costa Rica 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 Provider: Rustic Pathways Duration: 8 days Price: $2,895 (+$1,440 group airfare) Traveler Rating: 4.90 ⭐ (120 reviews) LEARN MORE Teen Spanish Summer Camp Program Type: Language Immersion Provider: Tico Lingo Duration: 14 days Price: $3,950 (+ self-airfare) Traveler Rating: 4.95 ⭐ (65 reviews) Costa Rica: Intro to Pre-Med And Public Health Program Type: Community Service, Study Abroad Provider: Global Works Duration: 17 days Price: $5,395 (+ self-airfare) Traveler Rating: 5.0 ⭐ (10 reviews) Program details and review ratings were accessed on 08/15/2024. Peru 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 Provider: Rustic Pathways Duration: 12 days Price: $4,195 (+ $1,195 group airfare) Traveler Rating: 5.00 ⭐ (29 reviews) LEARN MORE Peru: Sacred Mountains 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) Program details and review ratings were accessed on 08/15/2024. 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. Need help deciding where to go? Talk with our expert travel advisors to help you figure out the perfect destination for your summer adventure. 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. Well, except for somewhere like North Korea. Don’t be too surprised to find zero programs taking high school students to visit Pyongyang, North Korea. 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.