Summer is a wonderful time for high school students to experience other cultures through international travel. However, choosing the right summer abroad program can feel overwhelming with all the options. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Types of High School Summer Abroad Programs
There are several different models for high school summer travel abroad programs. Understanding the options can help narrow down which style may be the best fit.
Service Learning Programs
Service learning programs involve students participating in volunteer work or internships while abroad. Common projects include building schools, parks, or homes in developing communities. These programs emphasize cultural immersion and giving back through hands-on service. Students gain valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, and working cross-culturally. Well-designed programs also provide cultural and language enrichment activities. Location options span continents with programs in places like China, Ghana, India, and more. Service programs usually last 2-4 weeks.
Cultural Immersion Programs
Cultural immersion programs focus on experiential learning through homestays, day trips, and cultural activities like cooking classes, art lessons, or dance workshops. The goal is to learn about the host country by fully engaging in the local lifestyle and community. Students may stay with host families which provides the most intimate cultural exposure. Group sizes are small (often 8-12 students) to allow for customized experiences. Local guides and educational programming supplement independent exploration. Program lengths vary from 2 weeks to a full summer. Locations could include countries in Europe, Latin America, and Asia.
Specialized Study Programs
Specialized study programs offer an academic focus in areas like science, engineering, art, or a foreign language. Coursework may involve lab work, field studies, studio time, or intensive language classes. Programs partner with local high schools, universities, or special summer schools abroad. Students earn high school credit while immersed in educational experiences uniquely tied to the host country. For example, a marine biology program in the Bahamas or an Mandarin language program in Beijing. Lengths generally last 2-4 weeks during summer break.
Sports Exchange Programs
Sports exchange programs allow students to pursue their athletic interests internationally. Options include soccer camps in Europe, surf programs in Australia/Costa Rica, basketball tournaments in South America, and more. Along with skill-building and competition, activities incorporate cultural experiences through local excursions, homestay accommodations, and interaction with international peers. Locations span various countries with strong connections to the given sport. Programs usually run 1-3 weeks in summer.
Independent Travel Programs
Independent travel programs give students more freedom to explore on their own with minimal adult supervision. Teens travel independently or in small, self-led groups according to an orientation-provided itinerary. Local guide support is available when needed. Accommodations include hostels, apartments, or hotels rather than homestays. Activities are self-directed with options for cultural attractions, volunteering, and recreational activities. Programs may offer travel hubs in destinations like Thailand, New Zealand, or Argentina that allow for multi-country itineraries over 4-8 weeks.
Combination Programs
Combination programs offer elements of different styles over a blended experience. For example, a few weeks of a service project combined with independent travel time or cultural immersion mixed with specialized academics. This allows students to tailor their experience according to various interests. Locations and durations vary depending on how programs structure their blended options. Combination programs provide flexibility within the overall experience.
In summary, the different models suit diverse interests, learning preferences, and travel styles. Knowing these options helps match programs to individual needs and desired outcomes for meaningful and memorable experiences abroad.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Program
When starting your search, consider the following factors that impact the quality and safety of summer abroad programs:
Location
Location significantly impacts culture, climate, language environment, amenities, and activities available. Research destinations to select ones aligned with interests and well-suited to summer travel. Safety should also factor into location choice.
Duration
Program length affects depth of cultural exposure versus number of locations visited. Shorter programs concentrate activities; longer programs allow more independence. Ensure duration meets learning goals versus schedule constraints.
Group Size
Smaller groups (8-12 students) facilitate customized attention whereas larger groups organize multi-country trips. Balance group dynamics with learning preferences.
Age Range
Verify programs appropriately accommodate high school ages versus mixing with college students or younger kids. Safety and maturity levels impact experience.
Accommodations
Homestays provide richest cultural immersion whereas hotels offer most independence. Hostels offer social aspects; apartments suit independent groups. Select options aligned with learning goals.
Academics
Check that academic content, workload, and credentialed instructors suit desired rigor to earn transcript credit. Balanced activities optimize cultural and educational objectives.
Support & Safety
Research health/safety protocols, staff qualifications, 24/7 emergency contacts, security procedures, and insurance coverage. Reputable programs prioritize well-being.
Costs
Determine true all-inclusive pricing; beware add-on expenses. Financial aid availability impacts affordability. Cost shouldn’t compromise quality and safety considerations.
Itinerary
Carefully review planned activities, cultural experiences, and educational components. Programs vary in depth, structure, and logistical details provided. Well-planned itineraries optimize benefits.
Conducting thorough due diligence across these important criteria ensures selecting the best-matching, high-quality program. Don’t hesitate to ask providers detailed questions to evaluate options systematically.
How to Find Reputable Programs
The high school study abroad industry involves many new program operators every year. Ensuring a program’s reputation and track record protects student safety. Here are trusted resources for finding well-established providers:
Referrals
Ask teachers, advisors, or other students/parents who have utilized programs for referrals of reputable operators. Personal referrals offer valuable insider feedback.
Secondary Research
Check operator accreditation with organizations like COGAP, NAFSA, and Forum on Education Abroad. These associations maintain standards for ethical, safety-focused practices.
Program Websites
Evaluate websites for detailed itineraries, staff bios, policies, and families’ testimonials. Reputable programs openly share information to establish trust.
Third-Party Databases
Search portals maintained by organizations like American Council on Education, DreamSpark, and Study Abroad Connection. These list established programs vetted for quality and credentials.
Fee-Based Research
As a last resort, utilize background check services to evaluate complaints/compliance records when red flags emerge. But positive third-party reviews provide best validation.
Carefully consider any new or unknown program operators. Work only with established providers with multiple references available to ensure the highest quality experience.
Making the Final Selection
For popular programs meeting all the desired criteria, spend time contacting references to get authentic student perspectives. Ask about specific experiences, cultural impacts, staff support quality, logistical coordination, and value received. Families may also consider visiting prospective program facilities or local representatives if travel is possible.
Additionally, review enrollment contracts thoroughly and ask clarifying questions. Look for specifics on things like:
- Insurance coverage and emergency protocols
- Withdraw/refund/cancellation policies
- Behavior expectations and disciplinary process
- Communications andtech policies abroad
- Itinerary modifications and supplemental costs
- College transcript processes
Signing with a sense of assured comfort allows full focus on learning abroad rather than logistical doubts. Some final considerations include:
- Financial timeline fitting payment plans
- Program dates aligning with student schedule
- Pre-departure orientation/prep support
- Post-program support network
With extensive research and due diligence, selecting the best matched program gives families and students confidence. The right international experience, guided well, can profoundly impact student growth and global perspectives in positive, lasting ways.
FAQs
Here are some common questions families have about high school summer travel abroad programs:
What is the average program cost and are there ways to lower fees?
Programs range widely in price from $2,000 – $10,000 depending on location, duration, amenities, and activities provided. The average 2-4 week program costs $3,500-6,000. Many operators offer price reductions for early applications or fundraising help. Additionally, some destinations provide cost breaks for applying with a friend or sibling. Limited need-based scholarships exist, so inquire proactively. Be wary of unusually low prices which may compromise program quality.
How much independent travel time is typical within programs?
Independent travel time varies significantly between program models. Cultural immersion programs generally have no independent periods for maximum cultural engagement. Combination programs schedule 1-3 days independently. And independent travel programs structure 4-5 days per week for self-directed exploration with local guide support as needed. Opt for the right balance that suits learning style and maturity level.
Do students need foreign language skills to participate?
While foreign language skills open more doors abroad, they are generally not prerequisites for most general high school summer travel abroad programs. However, specialized language immersion programs usually require a minimum level of proficiency in that target language. For other program styles, having some language skills can enhance the cultural experience but are not necessary. Many operators provide educational materials and guide support in English to enable full participation. Still, learning some basic local phrases certainly helps students engage more actively in the host culture.
How do credit and grades work for academic programs?
Most academic-focused programs partner with accredited high schools, language institutions or universities abroad to award official transcript credit. Specific coursework, projects and assessments aim to meet typical high school standards. Grades vary between pass/fail to full letter grades depending on the credentialing school. Programs provide details upfront on earning credits, grade schemes and transcripts to ensure clear understanding of academic recognition received.
What health and safety precautions are in place?
Reputable programs carry international medical insurance, have staff trained in basic first aid and CPR, comply with child protection laws and maintain emergency contacts 24/7. They also provide pre-departure orientation on safety protocols like travel documents, money matters, cultural norms and behavior expectations. Well-planned itineraries ensure activities and transportation are properly vetted. Constant guidance helps ensure well-being while still providing independence as appropriate for age group. Proper research validates prudent safety policies are top priority.