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Best Summer Travel Programs for High School Students – 2024

April 18, 2024

Studying abroad isn’t only for college students–high school students can also benefit from the opportunity to push their boundaries, develop cultural sensitivity, and explore other countries. In the process, they’ll develop their independence and resilience–skills they’ll need for college and beyond–as well as engage in academic and career-focused exploration. Additionally, there are programs available for just about every interest, from wildlife conservation to service-learning to sailing. Since critical aspects of attending an international or travel-based program for teens are safety and staff quality, our list only includes well-regarded providers with long-term track records who employ highly vetted and trained faculty, counselors, and trip leaders. If you’re set on leaving the US behind this summer, use the below summer travel programs for high school students as your research start point.

1)  Smithsonian Student Travel High School Summer Programs

  • Location : Australia & New Zealand; Belize; Costa Rice; France & Switzerland; Greece & Italy; Kenya & Tanzania; Iceland; Japan; Morocco; New York & Denmark; Portugal & Spain; Silicon Valley; Washington, D.C. & Houston; Vietnam & Thailand
  • Residential?:  Yes
  • Program Length:  8-20 days, depending on program
  • Cost:  $6,790-$9,990, depending on program (not including airfare)
  • Eligibility:  Rising freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and college freshmen (must be at least 13 years old)
  • Application Deadline:  Rolling, but students are encouraged to apply early

With fourteen different programs to choose from, Smithsonian Student Travel offers high school students the opportunity to deeply explore and engage with specific themes. Depending on the program location, themes include aerospace, social justice, climate change, indigenous cultures, art, and wildlife conservation, among others. For example, students who travel to Costa Rica will focus on marine & wildlife conservation while those who venture to France & Switzerland will delve into art, culinary traditions, & scientific research.

During each program, students engage with the past, present, and future. Not only will they visit museums and learn more about relevant artifacts but also will engage in hands-on activities, adventures, and independent learning projects. As a result, students become deeply immersed in both location and culture. Finally, a Smithsonian Student Travel Expert will join every group for about five days of each itinerary. Travel Experts are professionals in the program’s theme. For example, one of the Costa Rica travel experts is Dr. Brett Scheffers, a Professor of Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida.

Smithsonian Student Travel is searching for students who are serious about the program and plan to actively participate. As such, they require a personal statement as well as two teacher recommendations.

2)  CIEE Global Navigator High School Summer Abroad

  • Location : Argentina; Australia; Botswana; China; Costa Rica; Czech Republic; Denmark; Dominican Republic; England; Estonia; France; Germany; Ghana; Ireland; Italy; Japan; Mexico; Morocco; Netherlands; Portugal; Scotland; Singapore; South Africa; South Korea; Spain; Taiwan
  • Residential?: Yes
  • Program Length: 3-4 weeks
  • Cost: Typically between $5-7,000 per program
  • Eligibility: Current freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 14+
  • Application Deadline: January-May; rolling enrollment

CIEE–the Council of International Educational Exchange–offers a number of summer travel programs for high school students in nearly thirty different locations around the world. Focuses offered include arts & culture , business , language , leadership and service , social change , and STEM , although they are location-specific.

For example, programs in Mexico include Spanish Language and Mexican Culture as well as Leadership & Service in Youth Development . Students traveling to Portugal dive into Aquatic Ecosystems and Sustainability . Interested in music or gaming? You’ll want to check out the two programs offered in South Korea: K-Pop Immersion and Diplomacy and Peace Studies . Finally, some programs, like Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Europe , are offered in multiple locations (Dublin, Copenhagen, and Berlin).

Similar among all programs is the cultural immersion, relationship building, and singular focus on a particular language or topic. However, each program has its own unique objectives. For example, K-Pop Immersion students learn from music producers, songwriters, and choreographers while attending performances and visiting famous music video sites. Alternatively, Spanish Language and Mexican Culture students, who are based in the city of Mérida, spend the morning in immersive language classes and the afternoons exploring the city, visiting museums, taking cooking classes, and exploring Mayan ruins–all while participating in a homestay experience.

To apply, students need to fill out a general online application. They’ll need to be ready to do so well before summer begins–some deadlines for these teen summer travel programs are in January (others are later in the spring). All are first-come, first-served, and some programs have prerequisites.

Summer Travel Programs for High School Students – Continued

3)  putney student travel.

  • Location : 25+ countries; all continents (except Antarctica) represented
  • Program Length: 8-34 days
  • Cost: $4,690-11,490, depending on the program
  • Eligibility: Current freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
  • Application Deadline: Rolling, but it’s best to apply early as some programs fill quickly

What sets Putney apart from other teen summer travel programs is their exclusive focus on middle and high school students. Students can choose from career , exploration , service , pre-college , or language-focused programs in a number of different countries. Moreover, all students participate in cultural immersion and complete a creative independent student project of their choice. Past projects have included apprenticing with a gelato maker, designing sports marketing campaigns, and learning to play a traditional instrument.

Wondering what you can expect from each focus? Career-focused programs include wildlife conservation, writing, and public health, among others.  For example, Writers’ Workshop and Craft , held in Dublin, Ireland, gives students the opportunity to experience Ireland’s storytelling tradition, write in famous historical sites, and travel to a three-day writer’s retreat on a remote island. Alternatively, Exploration programs are all about discovering a new country and immersing oneself in its culture. As such, students journeying to the Faroe Islands & Iceland participate in activities like lighthouse hikes, boat and helicopter excursions, and glacier and volcano treks. Service program participants participate in structured projects that give back to the local community they’re staying in, while those undertaking a Language program engage in authentic interactions with their homestay family as well as the local community on a daily basis. Finally, Pre-College students undertake academic coursework alongside experiential learning activities.

To apply to these summer travel programs for high school students, you’ll need to complete an Applicant Statement and two teacher references. Looking for more options? Putney collaborates with a number of other providers, including National Geographic Student Travel .

4)  Broadreach Summer Programs

  • Location : Caribbean; Bali; Fiji; Curaçao; Costa Rica; Amazon & Galapagos; Red Sea; Bahamas; Bonaire; Mexico; Portugal
  • Program Length: 12-24 days, depending on program
  • Cost: $4,880-9,480, depending on program

Broadreach programs center on one of five specializations: scuba diving , sailing , marine biology , veterinary medicine , or wildlife biology . In addition, certain programs are land-based and others are liveaboard.

Broadreach’s philosophy is that students should learn and build skills in a hands-on environment. As such, students can expect to develop knowledge in a particular field while having the freedom to explore their curiosities. At the Bahamas Veterinary & Wildlife Care program, for example, students not only assist with animal care procedures and learn more about animal handling, restraint techniques, and conservation but also explore the islands via kayak and snorkel. Alternatively, students enrolled in Red Sea Advanced Scuba participate in more than 30 dives, earn multiple PADI dive certifications, and take part in community-based projects as well as Egyptian coastal and desert hikes.

Groups are kept intentionally small (approximately twelve students). Moreover, all students who attend these summer travel programs for high school students participate in some level of academic coursework, including journals, discussions, research projects, and exams, and can receive college credit for some programs.

Summer Travel Programs for High School Students — Continued

5)  issos summer school.

  • Location : St Andrews (Scotland); Cambridge (UK); Yale (Connecticut)
  • Program Length: 3 weeks
  • Cost: approximately $8,500-11,000, depending on program
  • Eligibility: 13-18 years old
  • Application Deadline: Rolling

Looking for an intensive academic experience abroad? ISSOS runs three summer travel programs for high school students: St Andrews , Cambridge , and Yale . Over the course of three weeks, students choose one Academic and one Elective. They’ll also participate in plenty of social programming and trips.

Classes meet for three hours each morning; all three campuses have different Academic options available. These include Debate, Study Skills, English Language, Creative Writing, Youth Leadership, IB Extended Essay, Business & Entrepreneurship, and Journalism. Similarly, electives vary according to campus and include theatre, tennis, film, outdoor leadership, photography, golf, or art. All courses are hands-on and seek to teach essential skills. For example, Journalism students practice interviewing, research, writing, and debate.

Socially, students are divided into four Clans, which serve as their core group during their time in the program. Clans also compete against each other in friendly competitions. Moreover, excursions are held weekly. St Andrews students visit Glasgow, Edinburgh, and historic castles while Cambridge students explore Windsor, Oxford, museums, and cathedrals. Yale students travel to New York City and Boston.

No matter which of these teen summer travel programs you choose, you’re in for an international experience. Enrollment is limited to only 10% of any given nationality. Teacher recommendations are required as part of the application, and students should find out within 24 hours of submission whether or not they have been accepted.

Final Thoughts – Summer Travel Programs for High School Students

In our ever-changing world, being a global citizen–respectful of other cultures and perspectives, aware of one’s place within the larger community, and civically and environmentally active–is more important than ever. In addition to helping students develop critical academic and professional skills, teen summer travel programs also give students the opportunity to build the empathy, respect, understanding, awareness, and independence that will impact and shape them for years to come.

Looking for summer programs closer to your area? Consider checking out the following:

  • Best Summer Programs for High School Students
  • Best Summer Programs in Atlanta
  • Best Summer Programs in the Bay Area
  • Best Summer Programs in Boston
  • Best Summer Programs in Chicago
  • Best Summer Programs in Dallas
  • Best Summer Programs in Denver
  • Best Summer Programs in Houston
  • Best Summer Programs in Los Angeles
  • Best NYC Summer Programs
  • Best Summer Programs in Philadelphia
  • Best Summer Programs in Phoenix
  • Best Summer Programs in Seattle
  • Summer Programs

Kelsea Conlin

Kelsea holds a BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Tufts University, a graduate certificate in College Counseling from UCLA, and an MA in Teaching Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Her short fiction is forthcoming in Chautauqua .

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Join our newsletter and be the first to hear about new programs, early registration savings, and more this fall! Since 1982, our summer programs for high school students have brought thousands of teens together from around the world to share unforgettable experiences and create lasting friendships. We can't wait for you to join us for your summer of a lifetime!

  • Safety Our #1 priority, safety is integral in everything we do.
  • Experience 42 years providing teens with amazing summer experiences.
  • Excellence 98.5% of recent survey respondents recommend us.
  • Impact Over 45,000 teen travelers' lives forever changed.

Life-changing Summer Experiences for Teens

Active Teen Tours

Costa Rica Service & Adventure

Grades 9, 10, 11

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California & the Canyons

Grades 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

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Pre-College Enrichment Los Angeles on the campus of UCLA - 21 days

Pre-College Enrichment Los Angeles - on the Campus of UCLA

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

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European Discovery

Grades 9, 10

$14,399 USD

$13,899 USD

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Costa Rica Community Service - 21 days 16

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High School Trips Abroad 2024 to Spain, Cuba & Puerto Rico

The best customized educational short-stay programs abroad with rich immersive learning experiences, high school trips abroad for international students: what we offer, a high school trip focuses heavily on cultural immersion regardless of your students' language capabilities to enhance personal, social, and emotional development.

Alandis’ short-stay high school trips are a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience designed to meet the specific needs and interests of your group of students. Our custom programs for high schools will take you across the cities and natural wonders of several European or Latin American countries.

These flexible programs are designed to offer a blend of cultural immersion , language learning , and educational experiences . The custom program is created after working closely with you, the teacher, and other high school faculty, to understand your specific interests and requirements.

This may include visits to historical sites , educational institutions , museums , and cultural landmarks . Depending on your program’s goals, there may be opportunities to attend language classes , engage in community service activities, participate in cultural events , or meet local students to practice language skills.

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  • Program examples: school trips to Europe
  • Program examples: best school trips worldwide
  • What makes Alandis Travel unique?

What to expect when customizing your school trip

The alandis travel promise.

  • Safety guarantee: our greatest priority is your students' safety, which is why we have one of the best developed protocols in the industry.
  • Bespoke itineraries: you tell us your budget and program objectives and we'll give you various options to help you understand what you can fit on your trip.
  • No-obligation quote: with 50+ years building custom programs and excellent client satisfaction, we know you will love our client service and proposals.
  • Tour & site coordinators: our tour coordinators receive and accompany your groups throughout the journey, while our site coordinators are responsible for the well-being of your students throughout their trip, and will be there to accompany them and resolve any issues 24/7.
  • Teacher planning resources: unsure what to include? We're happy to share promotional, organizational and safety resources to help you plan your trip accordingly.
  • Free travel for teachers: we typcally include teacher & chaperone travel for free in the pricing.
  • More on safety
  • More on planning

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What can be included?

  • Spanish language or content-based classes & materials, such as culture & history
  • Cultural encounters: discover new sports & hobbies such as kayaking, sevillanas dance classes, local cinema trips, flamenco shows, local cooking classes, local music concerts, and ceramic workshops
  • Day trips: discover the local region with short excursions to neighbouring hotspots rich with Christian, Jewish and Moorish culture
  • Religious activities: optional religious activities are available such as mass, holy week, and more
  • Certificate on completion
  • Language exchanges with local students
  • Service learning
  • Residential accommodation
  • Transportation
  • Health insurance & 24/7 emergency support

Our programs are entirely customizable and adaptable to your specific preferences and needs.

High School group Alandis Travel

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How Can Students Maximize Their School Trip Abroad? 🌍✈️

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High school program examples.

Alandis high-school programs are 100% customizable, but browsing the following fixed programs gives you a good idea of the social and culture immersion our educational programs are renowned for.

HAV Fall 2018 service learning opportunity

High School Jazz Education & Music Excursions: A Cuban Cultural Immersion Program

8  days, request quote.

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Physiotherapy Education & Spanish Cultural Tours: A Group Wellness Program in Spain

11  days.

Winery Visit

Culinary Study Abroad Program: A Taste of Iberia in Spain

9  days, request quote.

Camino de Santiago Sign

Camino de Santiago & Cervantes Literary Journey: A Spain and Portugal Cultural Tour

15  days.

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Extended Soccer Team Journey: A Comprehensive Football & Cultural Program in Spain

Sevilla FC Stadium

Soccer Tours & Cultural Immersion: A Soccer Travel Program Across Spain

7  days.

Metropolis Building in Madrid

Best of Madrid and Andalusia (Extended)

10  days.

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Spanish Cultural Immersion: Andalusia & Madrid Experience

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Study Abroad Adventure: Spain and Portugal Cultural Immersion

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Benefits of Alandis' high school trips

  • Students immerse themselves in a new way of life, learn a new language , and gain a better understanding of the world around them.
  • Boost cultural encounters from flamenco dancing to guitar building and other local activities to discover culture and have genuine authentic interactions
  • Students hold regular conversation exchanges and social meetups with local students
  • Students see and experience an alternative way of life first-hand with the opportunity to try things they never would without the exchange relationship
  • Students find it considerably easier to build relationships in a setting specifically engineered for this purpose
  • Students often create long-lasting relationships with their exchange partner and their family for many years
  • Studying abroad can enhance a student’s resume and increase their chances of being accepted into a prestigious universit y or landing a job in a global marketplace . Employers value candidates with international experience and language skills .
  • Students experience a different educational system and values to compare with their own
  • Study the same topics and themes as at home but from a different perspective/cultural bias
  • Students boost their CV with courses in Spanish and personal & visual presentation opportunities in Spanish too
  • Students build a network of international contacts that they will stay in touch with for many years
  • Students who participate in exchange programs have the opportunity to study subjects that may not be available at their home school. They also get to learn from new teachers and experience different teaching styles .
  • Learn real, colloquial Spanish used day-to-day , and learn formal alternatives in your Spanish courses for a comprehensive approach to improving your Spanish
  • We offer the option to level test students before and after their exchanges to measure their language improvement
  • Living in a new country and attending school in a different environment can be challenging, but it also helps students develop independence , self-confidence , and problem-solving skills . They learn to adapt to new situations , make new friends , and navigate unfamiliar surroundings .
  • By studying abroad, students gain a better understanding of global issues and become more aware of their role as global citizens . They learn to appreciate diversity , respect other cultures , and develop a sense of empathy for people from different backgrounds.

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Interested in more information about our customized school trips for high schools?

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High School Travel Programs for Older Teens - 11th and 12th Grade

Find yourself this summer.

Our high school summer travel programs for older teens are carefully crafted with students finishing 11th and 12th grade in mind. Older teens flourish with itineraries that offer more independence to encourage growth and even more confidence in traveling.

Whether it’s hitting up a larger variety of destinations in Asia , learning to use the Eurail train pass in Europe , connecting with local cultures in Latin America , road-tripping in New Zealand , or just having a bit more freedom on our North America trips, these programs are designed to guide older teens to becoming more independent and savvy travelers. Are you ready to find yourself with TFT this summer?

Show Me All The Older Teen Programs

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Featured Programs

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Europe for Older Teens: Ultimate Europe (30 Days)

  • Jun 29 - Jul 28 Full

Current Grades

Program length.

High school student traveler in New Zealand

Australia & New Zealand for Older Teens

  • Jun 29 - Jul 23 Full

Teenage travelers explore Amsterdam on summer travel program in Europe

Europe for Older Teens: Amsterdam, Munich, Swiss Alps & Venice

  • Jun 29 - Jul 11 Full
  • Jul 3 - Jul 15 Full
  • Jul 23 - Aug 4 Full

laoswaterfall

Southeast Asia for Older Teens: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

  • Jun 29 - Jul 19 Full

High school students smile in Santorini on their summer teen tour to Greece.

Europe for Older Teens: Greece, Italy & the Islands

  • Jul 11 - Aug 4 Full

Alaska Student Travel

USA for Older Teens: Alaska Service & Adventure

  • Jul 10 - Jul 20 Full

Teens enjoy sunset on the beach in Costa Rica on summer service and adventure program.

Costa Rica for Older Teens: Adventure & Service

  • Jul 21 - Jul 31 Full

Teen enjoys surfing in Costa Rica on summer student travel program.

Costa Rica for Older Teens: Adrenaline

Costa Rica Activities

Costa Rica for Older Teens: Ultimate Adventure & Service

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USA for Older Teens: Hawaii Big Island Service & Adventure

  • Jun 29 - Jul 9 Full

Eiffel Tower

Europe for Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris

  • Jun 21 - Jul 3 Full
  • Jul 11 - Jul 23 Full
  • Jul 15 - Jul 27 Full

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Europe for Older Teens: Berlin, Krakow, Vienna & Budapest

Teen travelers take in the beauty of the Amafli Coast on their summer tour to Italy.

Europe for Older Teens: Greece & Italy

High school traveler captures the sunset in Santorini on their summer teen tour to Greece.

Europe for Older Teens: Greece Island Hopping

Iceland Travel For Teens

Europe for Older Teens: Iceland Adventure

London-Paris-French-Riv-Barcelona

Europe for Older Teens: London, Paris, French Riviera & Barcelona

Croatia Boys

Europe for Older Teens: Prague, Austria, Slovenia & Croatia

  • Jun 29 - Jul 13 Full

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Europe for Older Teens: Spain, Portugal & Morocco

  • Jul 11 - Jul 28 Full

Older Teen Programs with TFT

Choice & flexibility.

Travel is all about embracing the unexpected, which is why we are always flexible if there is a local festival, art exhibit or other fun events the group is interested in seeing. After all, unplanned moments are often the most memorable! We give teens an active voice in what they would like to do and see and we cater to each individual’s interests.

Ditch The Tour Bus

Tour busses are for tourists, and on our programs, you are anything but! We explore cities the same way the locals do. When you drive around a city on a bus you miss the little things that make each place so special, like that hidden alleyway in Rome or the charming cafe on the corner street in Paris . Missing the little pieces that make each city unique isn’t the full experience and we don’t want you to miss a thing!

A Focus On Food

Food is an important part of traveling and discovering new cultures , so we make sure you get to fully experience every bite! We are against chain restaurants and only eat at authentic local spots. On our programs you can expect to order off the menu and sample the flavors of each destination. Are you getting hungry yet?

Beyond Sight Seeing

On every program, we have activities centered around experiential learning to bring the culture to life. Whether it be learning the ancient art of falconry in Ireland , visiting a hill tribe in Thailand or an authentic cheese tasting in the Swiss Alps , we always find ways to incorporate fun and unique activities into our itineraries that aren’t part of the typical sightseeing tourist agenda.

Savvy Travelers

We don’t want to just take you along our itinerary and show you each place; we want to teach you how to be a real traveler! We are with you every step of the way to give you tips and advice so that you can be a more well-rounded and independent traveler in the future.

Staff Who Become Best Friends

All of our staff are chosen not just because they are experts in the countries we visit, but because they are also fun and relatable! It’s important you enjoy hanging out with your counselors, and we look forward to hanging out with you too!

Teenage travelers on a Travel For Teens summer program

01 / 05 Make a wish and toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain in Rome.

high school travel programs

02 / 05 Jump into adventure in Costa Rica.

high school travel programs

03 / 05 Swim in the Mediterranean.

high school travel programs

04 / 05 Hike glaciers in Iceland.

high school travel programs

05 / 05 Explore new countries with new friends.

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14 New High School Study Abroad Programs for Summer 2025

August 29, 2024

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Authored By:

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The new school year has just started, but are you already thinking about next summer? 

With 14 new programs spanning the globe, CIEE has an immersive high school summer abroad experience to help you get to where you want to go —whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or budding activist! 

Check out the new summer programs we’re offering in 2025! 

Kyoto alley with tree

1. Creative Writing in the Land of Manga in Kyoto, Japan  

Are your friends sick of you talking about Manga all the time? From pen and paper to an airplane bound for the birthplace of Manga, connect with like minds and hang out in Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan. Let your imagination run wild as you visit the International Manga Museum, learn from manga experts, and even witness the first-ever manga scrolls from the 13 th  century. It's time to write the next chapter of your own manga story. 

This is for you if: You’re an avid artist, obsessed with manga or anime, or ready to explore the global (and ancient) East. 

croissant with Eiffel tower in the background

2. Culinary Arts & French Culture in Paris, France  

Grab your kitchen clogs, sharpen your knives, and dawn your new apron in Paris’ prestigious Le Cordon Bleu. Spend three weeks whipping up gourmet dishes and learn the secrets to a buttery, flakey croissant. Perfect your pastry skills and master classic French dishes in our exciting new culinary program. 

You'll love it if : Butter is your love language and/or you're an aspiring chef, dedicated foodie, and future gourmand looking for the perfect, immersive foodcation and cultural experience. 

Seoul

3. Smart Cities & Sustainability in Seoul, South Korea  

Design your own smart city model and explore Seoul’s innovative projects firsthand alongside like-minded teens. Seoul is at the forefront of smart city infrastructure, and CIEE invites you to take a front-row seat and gain hands-on experience in learning how South Korea is establishing smart transportation systems, revitalizing urban areas into green spaces, and implementing policy to promote energy-efficient building practices. See how the ancient past and not-so-distant future collide in this jaw-dropping city. 

This is for you if: You believe the world needs fewer parking lots and are ready to hit up a Korean-style karaoke room.  

rabat

4. French Language & Moroccan Culture in Rabat, Morocco  

You asked, and we answered! We’re excited to offer a chance to live with a host family and delve into the rich Moroccan culture of Rabat, where French is spoken by over 35% of inhabitants. From cooking classes to choreographed dances, explore ancient ruins, shop in bustling markets, and relish your time in one of the most breathtaking, cosmopolitan cities on earth.  

You'll love it if: You’re an adventurer, wanderer, French film buff, and linguaphile. 

Tokyo

5. Robotics Engineering in Tokyo, Japan  

Ready to become a robotics engineer for 3 weeks? This new program offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn the basics of robotics, build your own robot, and explore Tokyo's cutting-edge technology scene. From coding to assembling parts, you'll gain hands-on experience and not only witness but find yourself at the forefront of the future. 

This is for you if:  You’ve ever wanted to buy socks or edible insects from a vending machine, and you aren’t afraid of AI taking over the world because your robot can fold your laundry! 

Paris

6. Fashion Design & French Culture (en français) in Paris, France  

More passion, more passion, more energy, more footwork! It’s time to practice your catwalk and get serious about design in the epicenter of global fashion all while leveling up your French language skills. This immersive program is conducted exclusively in French and will bring you directly to the heart of France’s historical fashion center. Engage with fashion professionals while soaking up all of the Parisian haute couture vibes. 

You'll love it if:  You’re an aspiring entrepreneur, passionate about fashion design, and want to stand out in a competitive and fast-paced industry 

Barcelona

7. Sports Management (en español) in Barcelona, Spain  

Kick off your career in Sports and solidify your Spanish language skills by learning from the best in Barcelona. This unique program is conducted en español and offers behind-the-scenes access to the world of sports management, from club administration to athlete sponsorship. Tackle issues at the forefront and future of the sports world and gain practical skills to jumpstart your career in this sports-obsessed city.  

This if for you if: You’re ready to rock an FC Barcelona jersey in Spain and want to impress Lamine Yamal with your language skills. 

Milan

8. Fashion Design & Italian Culture in Milan, Italy  

Ever wanted to create your own footwear? This program lets you design a custom pair in Milan, the heart of Italian fashion. Sketch, prototype, and create alongside industry pros at Arsutoria, a world-renowned footwear school. Explore Milan's historic fashion scene, from workshops to museums, and even learn how to present your creations like a pro.  

This is for: The very demure, very mindful, the sneakerheads, and anyone who wants to live la dolce vita (the sweet life) in Milan. 

Seoul

9. Korean Language & Culture in Seoul, South Korea  

Ready to become a K-Pop star? Maybe not, (we have our K-Pop Immersion summer program for that!), but you can dive into the Korean language, learn Hangul (Korea’s official writing system), and experience Seoul’s bustling, multifaceted culture with CIEE. Forget being a tourist, experience all that Korea has to offer by donning a Hanbok and participating in a tea ceremony with locals, practicing Korean with your Seoulmate , and soaking in the ancient and awe-inspiring architecture. 

This is for you if : You spend all of your money on kimchi or write too many letters to Jungkook. 

Botswana

10. Leadership & Service in Public Health in Gaborone, Botswana  

Ready to make a true impact? Join us in Botswana, South Africa, where you’ll witness and contribute to how local organizations are transforming life for Botswanans and see how universal healthcare has impacted their healthcare infrastructure. Connect with a host family over a home-cooked meal, and explore the safaris, deltas, and UNESCO World Heritage site nestled throughout a breathtaking landscape. 

You’ll love it if: You’re passionate about global issues, are the “Parent” of your friend group, or have ever wanted to hug an elephant! 

Lisbon

11. Portuguese Language & Culture in Lisbon, Portugal  

You can now dive into the Portuguese language for 4 weeks in one of the oldest European capital cities. This coastal dreamscape calls your name and beckons you to explore its stunning architecture and dazzling designs of its azulejos (ceramic tiles) all while leveling up your language skills with a welcoming host family. 

This is for you if: You dream of custard-filled delicacies and get lost in mandala coloring books. 

Ghana

12. Climate Change and Inequality in Legon, Ghana  

Dive deep into the pressing issues of climate change and its disproportionate impact on developing nations. In Ghana, you'll work alongside local scientists to investigate the financial burdens of sustainable practices and the real-world effects of climate change. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture through Ghanaian games, music, and dance, and learn how Ghanaians are fighting to preserve their ecosystem. 

You'll love it if: You're passionate about the environment, eager to learn from diverse cultures, and want to contribute to a more sustainable future. 

sports! UK

13. Sports Marketing in London, England  

From Wembley to Wimbledon to Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, buddy up with Big Ben and become a sports marketing guru in the heart of London. Dive into Sports Marketing in one of the world's most iconic and fanatical sports cities. While studying abroad in England you’ll learn from industry experts, network with professionals, and explore legendary venues of London. 

This is for you if: You review sports stats as a pastime and are ready to turn your sports passion into a career. 

Berlin, Germany

14. Taking Climate Action in Berlin, Germany  

Germany is pioneering eco-friendly living and CIEE invites you to partake. In the heart of Berlin, this new program offers hands-on experience in sustainable living, from urban farming to renewable energy. Connect with like-minded Global Navigators, collaborate with local artists, and explore the city’s green initiatives. 

You'll love it if:  You’re ready to ditch plastic straws, pump up the air in your bike tires, and want to have a lasting impact on our planet.  

Wait, There Are More High School Summer Programs…  

With over 70 programs across 35+ destinations to explore, you’ll always find a program that suits you.  

Visit our program search page to find your ideal summer abroad and book a call with an Enrollment Coordinator to answer any questions you have about how to turn your summer dreams into a reality.  

You can also start your summer abroad application today!

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Teens & High School Volunteer Abroad Programs | Under 18 Mission Trips

Sarah

By Sarah Vandenberg

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips

Updated for 2024

Volunteering abroad and high school exchanges are an excellent way for teens and high school students under age 18 to learn about other cultures, build new interests, and of course—do some good. I first learned about volunteer travel programs for teens in college, when my friend’s 15-year-old sister, Hailey, traveled to Costa Rica to study sea turtles. We’ll use Hailey’s experience volunteering abroad to learn about the process of finding a teen travel program, the importance of safety for teens volunteering overseas, and recommendations for specific under age 18 volunteer programs, including service trips to Cuba, which are becoming extremely popular now.

Hailey’s parents agonized over whether to allow their daughter to travel without them, and must have asked hundreds of questions to teachers, other parents, and the tour group before they signed her permission form.

Safety is naturally a big concern for parents  who are thinking about letting their teens volunteer abroad and finding a program that caters to teens and has  robust volunteer safety practices in place is critical in researching programs. A perfect example of such a program is International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), one of the world’s largest volunteer abroad programs. Nearly 20% of IVHQ’s volunteers are teenagers and they offer 16-17 year olds the opportunity to travel independently to 17 destinations around the world.

GoEco  has curated teen programs with chaperone supervision and tours for those who are 15-17 years old for projects ranging from animal care to conservation programs. They also have a list of special programs to participate with parental consent . Another great program for teens is Projects Abroad , which sets the Gold Standard for safety amongst volunteer service providers. Projects Abroad offers safe, dependable trips for high school students . Furthermore, many of their volunteer trips and language courses are open to travelers age 16 and up. Volunteering Solutions is another excellent option for younger travelers. Check out their best summer volunteer programs ,  or wildlife conservation projects for outdoor adventures! The minimum age for most of their programs is 17, and roughly 18% of their volunteers are aged 17-18. They offer 24/7 emergency support and thoroughly vet their projects and host families .

After two weeks abroad with her classmates, Hailey came back thrilled with the work she accomplished, the new friends she made, and the opportunity to put her Spanish lessons to practical use. Given Hailey’s interest in expanding her Spanish language skills, an alternative option that her parents may have considered is  Maximo Nivel’s Summer Spanish Camp  in Costa Rica, which is a highly structured program to learn Spanish, participate in sports, explore Costa Rica, and engage in community service in a safe and guided environment (i.e. 24/7 chaperones).

Parents:  whether you have a teen who is looking for a Peace Corps alternative and wants to volunteer abroad with a school or youth group , or if you’re looking for a new twist on family vacations , this article is for you. We have curated a select group of volunteer organizations that offer projects for teens who are 16+ or offer high school volunteer abroad programs .

Is Under 18 too Young to Volunteer Abroad?

Volunteer programs have different requirements as to how young a volunteer participant can be. For example, the Peace Corps requires that participants be at least 18 years old and most of their projects require a college degree. Some programs may also require an adult guardian to be present if the volunteer is under 18.

International Volunteer HQ offers 17 teen volunteer programs around the world, including pre-departure support and unrivaled safety and support services .

GoEco offers lots of meaningful travel opportunities, including special programs designed for 15-18 year olds , which have been carefully selected and include a higher level of supervision.

Maximo Nivel  is another highly respected volunteer organization that accepts participants as young as 15 through its “ Spanish Camp ” program. Teens can participate in a Spanish immersion program and have the option to spend 3 to 4 hours each volunteering in the host community as well.

Projects Abroad  offers  high school specials  for teens (ages 15 to 18 years) interested in joining students from around the world on programs in  Nepal ,  Thailand , and  Argentina .

African Impact  a highly respected volunteer organization that has been sending volunteers overseas since 2004, is an alternative to the Peace Corps and offers volunteer programs for participants as young as 16. African Impact offers 20 different types of projects for under 18 volunteers, ranging from marine conservation in Tanzania to teaching English in South Africa.

Benefits of Teen and Under-18 Volunteer Abroad Programs and High School Exchanges

Let’s take a look at a few benefits of under 18 volunteering abroad or participating in an exchange program  as a teenager/high school student:

Community Service Experience

Volunteering overseas lends a new perspective to community service, and for high school juniors and seniors, may help boost college applications. With increasingly competitive university acceptance rates, volunteering abroad—coupled with projects in your own community—has the  potential to set one student apart from another .

For students who aren’t very interested in volunteering near home, coupling a service project with a vacation is just one way to inspire them to help those in need. I have friends who never volunteered (unless their parents dragged them along) until taking a service trip with their church or class. After that first project volunteering abroad under 18 years old, they were hooked: many of them changed the colleges they applied to or the majors they declared after volunteering in another country.

Cultural Immersion

The other day I overheard an interview between a campus recruiter and a second-semester freshman. The recruiter needed testimonials for the university website, and the conversation kept coming back to, “I’m so glad to be in such diverse community.”

She’d never traveled outside of the Midwest, and when she made new friends from other countries, or who took vacations abroad on the regular, she felt the need to “catch up.” She valued their experiences, and wished she’d been able to build her own earlier. I would suspect a great number of students feel this way—and being able to do good even for a short time in a different community can make a lifelong impact.

Skill-Building

How many of us have taken foreign language lessons in high school? And how many of us have applied those skills outside of trivia night?

Hailey, who I mentioned earlier, took three years of Spanish classes before ever needing to use the language outside of school. Traveling to Costa Rica gave her the opportunity to challenge herself, and she made a conscious effort to speak Spanish as much as possible. When she came back, she was obviously much more comfortable in her phrasing and I wouldn’t be surprised if her Spanish grades improved that year.

That’s just one example. Teenage volunteering abroad experiences also help with:

Time management:  How do you make sure you get to the 8:15 bus in a place you’ve never been? Budgeting for getting lost, making it to your project on time, and being aware of how long you have to complete it help build valuable time management skills that will be needed later.

Navigation:  Same question as above! If you’re in a community very different from your own—maybe one that’s in a rural area while you’ve always lived in a city—can challenge and grow navigation skills.

Communication:  Even if your host family or the country you’re in predominantly speaks English, there may be cultural barriers to overcome. Learning to speak with people from different backgrounds is an excellent way to build and refine communication skills.

Teamwork:  How do you complete a project with people you may not have met before? And how will you know what to do if it’s a new project, one without lots of clear instructions, or one in which you have zero experience? It can be a daunting prospect even for adults, and you can be sure teamwork goes a long way toward finishing the project (and doing it well!).

Service Learning as a Component of Youth Volunteer Abroad Programs

Service learning  is a growing movement to couple educational activities with volunteering. Teenage volunteer abroad participants and high school students gain a better understanding a subject while making an impact on their community and developing a sense of personal responsibility in their work.

Through service learning, students follow a lesson plan created by their school or other educational program, while having flexibility and creative input into a service project spearheaded by a community-based group. This hands-on approach to learning also engages teens in reflection and discussion about what they’d like to accomplish through their project, how they can change or improve along the way, and what impact their project had in the end.

At the end of this article is a list of volunteer abroad programs that include service learning. You also can learn more about service learning from the  National Youth Leadership Council .

How to Choose a Teen Volunteer Abroad Program

Find organizations that specialize in teen volunteer programs.

There are literally thousands of volunteering abroad organizations in the world yet few specifically cater to under 18 volunteers. Be sure to stick with organizations that offer special programs for teen volunteers. Global Vision International  hosts thousands of under 18 volunteers each year and have an impeccable track records in keeping their young participants healthy and safe. So how do you go about choosing the right student travel program? In most ways, you’ll want to use the same checklist for any other volunteer project:

Set Realistic Expectations

This is tricky for teens and adults alike—what you want to do might not gel with what a volunteer organization needs. And because of age and experience, teens have far fewer options available. Service learning programs are built specifically to be age-appropriate and effective, while general volunteer programs that don’t require much experience—think painting murals or gardening—are perfect for families and groups. It’s also important to keep in mind that programs geared towards volunteering abroad for teenagers are short-term, learning experiences rather than intensive international development projects.

Set a Schedule

There are far fewer teen volunteer abroad opportunities than are available for adults, and many of them have set start and end dates—often occurring over winter, spring, or summer break. As you look at different programs, know any schedule constraints you may need to work with, and be sure to plan far enough in advance to coordinate school, work, or other activities.

Research Your Options

Don’t settle for the first program you’ll find in an online search. Large marketing budgets don’t always equate to the most valuable experiences or responsible programs. Look at a variety of volunteer organizations and find the one that makes the most sense for your family or group.

Read Reviews

Volunteer Forever is the perfect place to start! Reading brochures and websites will only get you so far. Learning what other volunteers have to say can mean the difference between choosing an amazing trip and a letdown. Check out the end of this article for a list of teen volunteer programs and reviews right here on Volunteer Forever.

Ask Questions

For an excellent list of questions you should ask any volunteer organization, click  here .

A Few Notes about Safety for Under-18 Travelers

My mom still gets a little on edge whenever I travel. I’m not sure it’s something that ever goes away, but after years of solo trips to countries she knows as “The murder capital of the world,” or “Your dad and I had a friend who was killed there in the 80s” I’ve learned how to approach her most common travel fears (and hopefully yours as well). Below are some especially important considerations for participants in under 18 volunteer abroad programs:

“What if you get sick or hurt?”  It doesn’t matter if your child is in perfect health and has never had a broken bone in his life—it’s still a legitimate concern and one you won’t shake until he gets back home. Three things to do:

  • Check with the tour group to see how they address students’ health while abroad. They should have readily-available information about travel health insurance, local clinics or hospitals, and steps to take in case of emergency. As an example, check out Global Leadership Adventures’  Security and Safety page  for answers to common questions about safety, security, and health. Be sure they have the most up-to-date information about your teen as well, including emergency contacts, health insurance provider, and any allergies or other information that could be helpful.
  • If you have health insurance, don’t assume your provider will cover trips outside of the country—if it doesn’t, compare other providers and purchase the option that’s right for you. Be sure your teen, the tour group, and any emergency contacts have the most up-to-date information and can get in touch in case something should go wrong.
  • Visit a travel clinic to learn about common ailments or injuries that might happen in the country your teen is traveling to, and how to prevent them. You can find a list of travel clinics  here .

“What if you get attacked?”  This one is tough, but the best way to allay those fears may be to talk it over with the tour group, with other parents who’ve sent their teens abroad, and if you can, with your teen’s host family or other contacts in-country. The chances of anyone on the tour being attacked might be the very same (or even lower) as in your home community, but be sure to do your research, and be certain your child knows how to avoid potential danger by staying with his group, by protecting his belongings, and by behaving appropriately for the community he’s in.

“What if you lose your money/bags/passport/other important items?”  This piggybacks on the last point: be sure your teen knows basic safety practices while abroad. Things like not leaving his bag sitting on a table, or resting his cell phone on top of his belongings where it can easily be snatched. Make sure he knows who to talk to as soon as he knows something has gone missing—as with health info, the tour provider should have a plan already in place should someone’s items get lost or stolen.

“How will I know you’re ok?”  This has always been the biggest sticking point for my parents. If they don’t hear from me at least once a day on my travels, they worry. And that’s been tough when I’m in the jungle or trying to scale the Great Firewall of China. I’ve gotten in massive fights with them over calling and emailing because here’s the thing: who the heck calls or writes email updates every day? Do you really need to use those minutes or text charges, and do you really want them to hunt down an Internet cafe for an email? Here’s a middle ground—just ask them to update their status on Twitter or Facebook, or text you on WhatsApp. Chances are they’re probably going to do that anyway, and by seeing Facebook photos and “Ziplining #thisisawesome” fly by on Twitter, you’ll know they’re doing fine.

Here are a few more resources to check out:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention : The CDC has lots of information about traveler health, country-specific vaccinations and common illnesses, and ways to stay safe while abroad.
  • U.S. Department of State – Travel : Here you’ll find information about passports, safety guides, emergency contact info, and more.
  • Travisa : This is my one-stop-shop for visas, if I ever need them.
  • Travelex : A good place to exchange money before travel.

Recommended Teen Volunteer Abroad Programs

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VolunteerForever

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is an excellent opportunity for teens to volunteer overseas. Since 2007, IVHQ has placed over 130,000 volunteers on impactful and affordable projects in dozens of countries worldwide. With an emphasis on sustainability and safety, IVHQ partners with local NGOs to host volunteers of a wide variety of programs, ranging from wildlife and animal care, to teaching, to sports coaching, and much more. These programs are not only educational, but also opening their eyes to other cultures and life experiences.

Supervised Youth Adventures

If your parents are feeling anxious about your plans to travel abroad, check out IVHQ’s supervised Youth Adventure Packages . Designed for teens ages 15 to 17, these are all-inclusive volunteer abroad experiences that have been created and vetted by IVHQ to deliver appropriate volunteering, accommodation, meals, transport, cultural activities, and full-time coordinator supervision and support. Not only will you have safe volunteer experiences, but your parents will also have peace of mind! There are 17 projects around the world for you to choose from!

Teen Programs

Here’s an opportunity for teens ages 16-17 to travel independently and volunteer on one of 17 IVHQ teen programs offered abroad. Visit Bali, Portugal, or Costa Rica when you choose IVHQ’s traditional volunteering projects that place you alongside volunteers of all ages.

Volunteer in Bali , and stay in Ubud on the island of Nusa Pen. Projects range from Teaching, Kindergarten, Environmental Education, Health Education, Construction and Renovation, and Turtle Conservation. Accommodation is provided in volunteer houses.

Spend your weekend exploring popular destinations like the beaches of Sanur, Seminyak, or Kuta. Try a cycling or trekking tour on Mount Batur, or immerse yourself in the local culture and visit temples. Program fees start at $385 for one week. Read more here .

High School Groups

Expand your horizons and foster cross-cultural understanding while you volunteer on community projects with your peers! If you’re a teen between the ages of 15 and 18, IVHQ has the perfect project for your high school group in more than 13 programs in Africa, Asia, Central America, South America, Europe, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

IVHQ can create customized itineraries that provide a safe environment for your high school group to learn, grow and challenge yourselves. IVHQ offers a range of services, such as detailed pre-departure training and access to an alumni network of more than 130,000 volunteers.

You’ll have 24/7 support from local IVHQ partners and teams, airport pickups, and volunteer accommodation in a safe community near your placement. Imagine doing rewarding volunteer work in Cusco, Peru , before taking an unforgettable week-long mini adventure exploring the world-famous Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley! This is one example of a destination that includes important volunteer work that you can perform while on a group trip. Program fees vary depending upon group size. Learn more and apply here!

VolunteerForever

GoEco teens in Bali

Since 2006, GoEco has offered affordable volunteer abroad programs and internships in over 40 countries throughout Africa ,  Asia ,  Australasia ,  Central America ,  Europe , the  Middle East , and  South America . With more than 150 different programs, including programs specifically for teens , and under 18 programs with parental consent , GoEco is a great organization to check out if you’re looking for a variety of impactful trips to choose from, from wildlife conservation  to  teaching English . As a volunteer, you will have 24-hour support from the GoEco team, from start to finish.

Currently, GoEco is offering a special travel grant where you can stay for the 3rd week free! Check out the eligible projects here !

Rainforest, Wildlife & Volcanoes for Teenagers in Costa Rica

Discover the Costa Rica Teen Program, a two-week journey blending conservation with cultural immersion for 15-17-year-olds. Adventure through San José, ascend Volcan Poas and partake in rainforest conservation. Enjoy snorkeling, cooking classes, and wildlife tours, all while staying in communal accommodations with peers. This program offers a structured, supportive environment with a focus on ecological stewardship and cultural appreciation, priced at $2,880 for an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Another amazing Wildlife conservation and Expedition nearby is in Ecuador!

Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation in Sri Lanka

Get your teen excited to volunteer to help endangered sea turtles in Sri Lanka! This program is great for 16 years old and over with parental consent. Not only will your teenager learn about sea turtles, they will work in the hatchery, participate in beach clean ups, and give back to the community by promoting awareness about sea turtles conservation. Hatchery tasks include feeding, nursing sick and injured turtles, cleaning them and their environment, and releasing baby turtles to the ocean. During nesting periods, your teen may also experience camping out on the beach at night to protect the nests. 

Located in the coastal town of Galle, in southern Sri Lanka, the program will be close to beautiful world-class beaches, as well as ancient buildings and museums, and trendy shops and boutiques. It is also regarded as one of the safest destinations in Sri Lanka. GoEco has a 24/7 emergency hotline, as well as an experienced local team so parents can rest assured of their safety. Here is more information ! 

Check out other similar programs: Sea Turtle Conservation for Teenagers in Bali and Sea Turtle and Community in Bali . 

Food Rescue in Lisbon, Portugal

Another educational and rewarding program to consider for your teen is the Food Rescue program in Lisbon, where they will learn about the worldwide dilemma of food waste. They will be part of the mission to reduce food waste to redistribute them to feed the hungry. Tasks may include food collection (from restaurants, shops, and supermarkets), preparation, packaging and distribution to individuals and families in need so that these foods do not go into the rubbish. They will work up to 4 hours daily in evening shifts. The minimum age for this program is 16 years old with parental consent. 

During the day, there is plenty of time to explore Lisbon, which is a generally safe city. They can wander the city streets, or travel outside to nearby quaint towns. Accommodations include living in a sustainable hostel with three meals provided. For more details, visit GoEco ! 

GoEco – Climate Change & Wildlife for Teenagers in Kenya

The Climate Change & Wildlife for Teenagers program in Nakuru offers a unique two-week experience for 15-17-year-olds, blending cultural immersion, wildlife conservation, and environmental stewardship. Participants engage in activities like Maasai cultural experiences, wildlife tracking, combating invasive species, and community projects. The itinerary includes exploring Nakuru National Park, Thomson Falls, and Lake Naivasha, along with educational elements such as Swahili lessons and environmental workshops. Accommodations in a secure gated community and comprehensive support ensure a safe and enriching experience. Priced at $1,550, this program is an ideal blend of adventure, education, and meaningful volunteering, tailored for teens during spring break.

African Wildlife Orphanage in Zimbabwe

Your teen can also join one of GoEco’s best volunteer programs in a world renowned and successful wildlife sanctuary in Zimbabwe, perfect for those considering a career as a wildlife veterinarian or zoology. This program is open for 18 and up, but also accepts 16-17 year olds with parental permission. Your teen will work alongside professionals to care for injured wildlife that are abandoned, abused, or orphaned. They will also learn and be involved in nature conservation research, educating the public about conservation, and hands-on care for the animals.  To get started, here is more information !

VolunteerForever

Maximo Nivel

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Maximo Nivel

Maximo Nivel  is the top-rated volunteer abroad organization on Volunteer Forever , and for good reason: it offers  affordable ,  safe , and  impactful  programs perfect for high school students. Maximo Nivel has a variety of volunteer abroad programs and Spanish language courses in Latin America and has hosted  over 25,000 participants  since it was founded in 2003.

Spanish Camp

Through its  Spanish Camp program , high school students aged 15 and up are invited for a full Spanish language immersion program at COSI, the Costa Rica Spanish Institute.

Maximo Nivel offers a service learning component to language learners, who can spend three to four hours per day volunteering with local communities to support children’s programs, assist with construction projects, or learn about sea turtle conservation. Monday through Friday each week, you’ll take Spanish classes and take part in your volunteering track – on weeknights, you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to take part in salsa lessons, movie nights, and much more.

Included with the program is airport pickup and drop-off, 24/7 in-country support, 8:1 student-chaperone ratio, housing with a host family, private transport for all activities, and program and safety orientation. To learn more about Maximo Nivel’s Spanish Camp, visit:  http://maximonivel.com/spanish/spanishcamp

High School Abroad

Through Maximo Nivel’s high school abroad program, you’ll spend a full semester or full year at an accredited, private high school in Costa Rica. All of your classes are taught in English, while Spanish is taught as a second language.

You also may be able to earn credit toward the International Baccalaureate Diploma, and take AP courses. During your stay, you’ll live with a host family and have assistance from a cultural advisor to help navigate you through cultural and language differences – plus, you can take part in optional tours, social events, and much more to gain the most from your adventure in Costa Rica.

This  study abroad  program includes airport transfer, housing, meals, school tuition and textbooks, orientation, private Spanish classes, and much more. Click here to learn more:  http://maximonivel.com/study-abroad/high-school/

High School Group Volunteering

Maximo Nivel offers several different  travel options for high school groups , including  volunteering abroad , a  volunteer adventure , and a  native Spanish program . Your itinerary can be designed to focus on Spanish language, service learning, cultural travel, or any combination of those programs, and all trips are carefully supervised by Maximo Nivel staff who are here to focus on your educational goals. Trips are available for summer, winter, and spring breaks, or year-round. Click here to learn more:  http://maximonivel.com/groups/high-school/

Volunteer Adventure

For two weeks, you’re invited on Maximo Nivel’s volunteer adventure, which includes five days of community service and six days of travel through Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru. Volunteer activities you can take part in include working with kids, teaching English, construction, conservation, animal care, or medical / healthcare.

In Costa Rica, you’ll go on a cultural night or city tour; 3-in-1 tour of Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfall, and coffee tour; a catamaran Tortuga Island tour, and a trip to Manuel Antonio National Park.

In Guatemala, you’ll go on a hike to Volcano Pacaya, take surf lessons in El Salvador, embark on a zip line tour, and spend the night in Tikal.

And in Peru, you’ll take a Cusco city tour, Sacred Valley tour, a two-day tour of Machu Picchu, and a two-day tour of Lake Titicaca and Puno. Learn more about Maximo Nivel’s volunteer adventure trips here:  http://maximonivel.com/adventure/full/

VolunteerForever

Projects Abroad

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Projects Abroad

With  Projects Abroad , you’re never too young to discover the world of volunteering. That’s why this organization has specially designed trips for  teens . Their team will be with you every step of the way to make sure you’re safe  to get the most out of your trip, and they even offer some  escorted flights  to certain destinations!

Check out some volunteer projects below. Program fees start from $925 per week.

High School Specials

If you’re between 15-18 years old , you can team up with like-minded teens from around the world. Together with new friends, you’ll experience life in a different country and help disadvantaged communities or protect the planet. And, you’ll gain self-confidence to help you pursue future dreams and overcome challenges. These trips are ideal for gaining  community service credit .

High School Special trips have fixed dates with set itineraries filled with fun and high impact activities – here are a few of the most popular trips:

  • Volunteer with children in  Nepal  or  Ghana
  • Gain medical experience in South America while learning Spanish in  Argentina
  • Discover the archaeological world of the ancient Incan Empire in Peru

Projects Abroad’s staff go above and beyond to make sure teens, parents, and teachers feel confident about the trip. If it’s your first time overseas, staff will give you all the support you need to have an amazing time.

What volunteers say – Review from Cassia

“Working with children is magical. Having worked with those children made me a better person. They were all so friendly, always offering us a happy smile when we played together. Two weeks sounds like a very short period of time, but they were enough for me to miss them.”

African Impact

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Abroadly

African Impact is a responsible, sustainable volunteer travel organization that has won multiple industry awards, including being voted the world’s Top Volunteer Abroad Organization by volunteers on GoAbroad four years in a row. Since 2004, they have hosted over 35,000 participants on 20 projects across 7 countries. The organization believes in the spirit of Africa and that the volunteer experience is just as important as the impact made. It is also recognized as a trusted specialist on volunteering and interning in Southern Africa. African Impact offers internships, as well as group, family, and high school projects. The minimum age requirement for their projects is 16, making African Impact a great option for teen and high school volunteers. 

African Impact manages its own projects and is able to provide tangible, real achievements on a regular basis. The organization has a clear Child Protection Policy and ensures that volunteers complete a criminal record check prior to involvement. Experienced staff is on the ground to support volunteers day-in-day-out and the organization does not use volunteer support in replacement for a local person.

In addition to making a positive impact, African Impact also believes that volunteering abroad should be enjoyable. The organization offers a range of activities for volunteers, including teaching children in South Africa , assisting with wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe, working in hospitals or clinics in Kenya, and carrying out dolphin and marine research in Zanzibar .

Early Childhood Development Project in Cape Town

The Early Childhood Development Project in Cape Town offers volunteers the chance to work with vulnerable children in underprivileged townships. Volunteers will support children in foster care homes and pre-schools, providing them with access to education and care that they may not otherwise have access to. The project aims to make a positive, long-term impact on the lives of disadvantaged children by providing them with the support and education they need to succeed.

In addition to working with children, volunteers will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Cape Town and all it has to offer. Cape Town has been named the Most Beautiful City in the World for the past 5 years, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Volunteers can take advantage of the many activities available in the city, such as hiking up Table Mountain, going paragliding, kayaking in the ocean, or visiting historic sites such as Robben Island.

Volunteers will live in a spacious guesthouse in the center of town, with shared dorm-style accommodation and shared bathroom facilities. The guesthouse is close to the main sights of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and the Company’s Gardens. A team on site will be available to support volunteers and help them with any needs they may have during their stay.

Volunteer to Teach English in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Thinking of majoring in education? Find out if teaching is right for you with a  teaching placement in Tanzania with African Impact. If you’re 16 years or older, you can provide assistance in under-resourced primary schools, helping students practice their English-speaking skills, and tutoring students with math. You’ll also provide support to remedial classrooms for persons with disabilities, and mark tests, check homework, and prepare learning material for the next day. Get the children active by playing sports – particularly football and netball – while supervising and coordinating activities.

While in Zanzibar, visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Center or Cheetah’s Rock, a fantastic wildlife sanctuary that lets you get hands-on with rehabilitating animals. Take a trip to see the monkeys at the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, or relax on one of many beautiful beaches.  Learn more and register today !

Dolphin and Marine Conservation Project 

Volunteer in Zanzibar on African Impact’s Dolphin and Marine Conservation Project and make a real difference to the sustainability of dolphin tourism. As a volunteer, you will monitor human-dolphin interactions, promote ethical dolphin tours, and contribute to the conservation of marine life in the area. This project is ideal for those passionate about marine conservation and the environment. In your free time, you can explore the beautiful coastlines and vibrant culture of Zanzibar. You will live in a private volunteer house near the coastal village of Kizimkazi and work with local communities and organizations to protect the marine ecosystem. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact while enjoying a truly amazing location.

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

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Searching for a transformative volunteer abroad experience? Involvement Volunteers International (IVI) , established in 1989, is a non-profit and charity that beckons individuals to be part of 25,000 volunteers who’ve positively impacted 112 projects in 23 countries. They have an excellent safety record, in-country 24/7 support & emergency assistance. Most programs accept 16+, but would need parental consent. Take a look at the below programs suitable for teens.

Kindergarten Volunteering Coral Coast, Fiji

If your teen is interested in a career working with children, then consider this program to give them experience working with kids. Travel to the Coral Coast in Fiji to assist teachers with primary aged children. Volunteers will help in assisting classes for 4-7 year olds alongside a teacher in teaching basic English, plan activities to encourage and engage learning English, and play with the children. Building a relationship with these kids will make an impact in each other’s lives. Coral Coast is famous for its beautiful beaches and coastlines with plenty of activities to do such as surfing, and other water activities. It will be hard to get bored for your teen! Start planning for this adventure here !

Turtle Conservation Program in Bali 

Check out this program if your teen loves the beach and turtles. This popular program is located on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida, which is a 45 minutes boat ride away from Bali. Volunteers will help endangered sea turtles by collecting data on turtle population, clean & feed turtles, collecting eggs, and monitoring their nests. In addition, they will also help with cleaning up the beaches, helping the local community with practicing English, and educating on environmental issues. Activities to do during your free time will be plenty such as hiking, diving, snorkeling, island hopping, or just relaxing on the beach. For more information on how to plan a vacation with volunteering, click here!

English Teaching in Peru

Here is another amazing project for teens to help disadvantaged kids in Cuzco, Peru. This project will undoubtedly open volunteers’ eyes to the hardships (especially lack of education)  that children may face in less developed countries. The minimum age requirement is 16+. Volunteers will help teach English to children, teens, and adults in different settings such as schools, day cares, and community centers.You will get to learn how to create daily lessons and educational activities. The teaching can be one-on-one or group classes. And don’t worry if you do not have experience with teaching, you will be provided a crash course in ESL teaching. And in your free time, immerse yourself in the local culture, with many sightseeings in this ancient civilization. For more information, visit IVI here !

Volunteering Solutions

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Volunteering Solutions (VolSol) offers lots of amazing travel opportunities for high schoolers who want to explore the world and make a positive impact through community service. Founded in 2007, VolSol has placed nearly 17,000 volunteers on 150 meaningful projects in 27 countries worldwide. And with a starting fee of just $200, Volunteering Solutions is one of the most affordably-priced volunteer organizations in the world – even offering travel insurance for just $12 per week.

You can find lots of teen, high school, and family volunteering opportunities through VolSol – and the three programs listed below are just a few of the amazing projects you can sign up for that are monitored by VolSol staff, who make sure these trips are safe and provide the very best experience possible for first-time travelers.

Wildlife Conservation in South Africa

If you love animals, VolSol’s wildlife conservation opportunity in South Africa may be the perfect choice for you! For two weeks to two months, you’ll have the chance to work at a wildlife reserve that’s home to Africa’s Big 5 species and many more. While your tasks will depend on what’s needed by the project when you sign up, you may be able to help with lion tracking and monitoring, tree planting and landscaping, elephant sanctuary support, wilderness trail walks and patrols, game counts, and much more.

This program starts from $1,100 for your first two weeks, and is an amazing way to learn about wildlife conservation, enjoy safaris and game drives, and so much more.

Summer Volunteer Program in Thailand

Volunteering Solutions’ Thai volunteer and adventure tour is an incredible way to explore Thailand and experience its culture while helping a local community through volunteer work. You’ll start your trip with a weekend in Bangkok, and after that you’ll travel to Surin, where you’ll learn about Thai history, daily life, and so much more while volunteering at a local child care center. You’ll play games with children, and help with renovating and improving the facility so the children can learn and play in a safe, fun environment – and later during your tour of Surin, you’ll have the chance to volunteer with elephants, visit Khao Yai National Park, and embark on a jungle trek. If you decide to stay for a full month on your Thailand adventure, you’ll spend your final week at the gorgeous beaches of Koh Phangan. Learn more here !

Volunteer Vacation in Nepal

VolSol has several different volunteer vacation options in Nepal , including a language and orientation week, a summer volunteer adventure, an orphanage program, and a teaching placement. VolSol’s summer adventure in Nepal is perfect for high school travelers who want to visit this amazing country in the Himalayas while volunteering with a local community.

This 22-day program starts with an orientation in Kathmandu, where you’ll start your volunteer experience at an orphanage, school, or center for mentally or physically disabled children. As a volunteer, you can provide care and affection, help with basic English lessons, guide the children with basic hygiene practices, and take them out on small excursions. You’ll also take city tours, visit gorgeous and historic temples, embark on a safari, go sightseeing, and so much more. Click here to learn more about volunteering in Nepal!

Global Vision International (GVI)

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Founded in 1997 by Richard Walton, Global Vision International (GVI) is an award-winning organization that provides volunteer and internship opportunities in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Latin America, and North America. GVI is unique from other volunteer programs in three ways: they operate their own volunteer projects to ensure real, sustainable impact on the ground; they provide 360 degree support before, during, after your placement; and lastly their alumni network provides increased access to higher education and career development opportunities.

In addition, as a parent-run organization , GVI prioritizes volunteer safety, especially for its under 18 programs. Since 2012, they have provided ethical and responsible programs for teens , with health and safety as their top priority. GVI’s compliance with British Standards 8848 demonstrates their commitment to safety, as they take extra measures to ensure the safety of their teen volunteers. This makes their programs appealing to parents who trust them to care for their children. Here are some samples of their teen programs.

Rainforest and Wildlife Conservation Teen Volunteering In Costa Rica

This popular program is for 15-17 year olds to learn about rainforest conservation in Gandoca, on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. This program will get your teen physically active while exploring Costa Rica’s natural environments such as jungles, mangrove forests, and beaches by hiking, swimming, and boating. They will see many native Costa Rican wildlife during their adventures while learning about wildlife conservation. They will also learn leadership skills, teamwork, resilience, etc through many projects such as the sea turtle surveillance program, mangrove forest restoration, and climate change. Power is limited, so they will get to enjoy the abundant wildlife surrounding them as the reserve is in the middle of the jungle! Get your teen excited by reading other teens’ reviews and videos of this project!

Sea Turtle Conservation and Adventure Teen Volunteering in Thailand

Here is another amazing opportunity for your teen. This teen volunteer program located in Southern Thailand, for 15-17 year olds, allows them to experience Thai culture while helping a local sea turtle conservation center and renovating schools. Specifically, the tasks will include cleaning sea turtle habitats, providing medical treatment to green sea turtles, and recording their growth; as well as cleaning up the nearby beaches, and helping to renovate local schools. For fun, they will have guided tours of the region, learn about responsible tourism, and visit national parks, and Phuket. Click here to get started and make friends around the world!

PADI Diving and Marine Conservation Teen Volunteering in Mexico

Is your teen interested in marine biology and marine life or interested in getting PADI certified? This is an exciting opportunity to learn about marine conservation and what it is like being a marine biologist. This volunteer program is based in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, where the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is located. There are many projects that your teen can participate in such as coral reef monitoring, endangered sea turtle research, and beach clean ups. The program also includes training and practice for PADI Open Water certification in the beginning of the program. For more details such as itinerary and costs, visit GVI !

Dolphin and Whale Conservation Teen Volunteering in the Canary Islands

Here is another marine conservation program specifically designed for 15-17 year olds, on the other side of the world, located in Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Instead, this program focuses on dolphin and whale conservation. This program is invaluable to gain knowledge about the effects of climate change, plastic pollution, and other environmental issues. Specific tasks for this volunteer program may include data on mammal health, population numbers, behavioral patterns, and surveys on the water and beaches. Click here for more information!

Plan My Gap Year

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Plan My Gap Year

Another summer volunteering program for high school students is  Plan My Gap Year . PMGY offers affordable and impactful volunteer travel opportunities for people of all ages to help with childcare, community projects, wildlife conservation, and much more throughout Africa and Asia. And with awards such as the Shell LiveWire Grand Idea Award, Thailand Green Excellence Award, and Special Recognition from the United Nations in Sri Lanka, Plan My Gap Year prides itself on transparency, safety (all volunteer programs are personally vetted by PMGY staff), and quality placements abroad.

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

If you’re ready for a tropical adventure, check out PMGY’s  Sri Lanka volunteer program . Along with many other volunteer opportunities, PMGY is offering a Sri Lanka Volunteer and Adventure Experience for travelers aged 16 and 17. For two weeks, you’ll explore and volunteer, with highlights including visiting an elephant orphanage, watching leopards at Yala National Park, relaxing on the beach, and volunteering on four different projects focusing on construction, English teaching, elephants, and sea turtles. This program costs $750, plus a $249 registration fee, and includes housing and meals, in-country transport, volunteer handbook, 24-hour UK-based support, and much more.  Learn more here!

School Trip Abroad

If you’re looking for a customized experience, Plan My Gap Year offers  school trips  where you can volunteer, explore, and immerse yourself in a new culture. These all-inclusive, tailored trips are customized to your group’s needs, with a UK expedition leader ensuring that your trip is safe, stress-free, and fun. With trips organized throughout Africa and Asia, there’s so much variety to the types of volunteer projects you can take on, or adventure opportunities you can try out.  Learn more about PMGY’s school trips here!

Volunteer in Bali with Wildlife

Join other young volunteers with Plan My Gap Year at the  Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre , and help care for animals that were victims of poachers and traffickers. Each day, you’ll provide upkeep for the center and care for endangered animals, enriching their lives—and your own—in the process. Tasks include feeding, enclosure cleaning, general maintenance, and spending time interacting with the animals, helping them to socialize to ward off depression and poor behavior. There are nearly 40 types of animals at the center, so there’s no shortage of meaningful ways that you can help out as a volunteer. Fees for this program begin at $270 for one week.  Learn more here!

Teach English in Fiji

With more than 750 primary schools in the  island nation of Fiji , there’s a great need for assistance from volunteers – especially those who speak English. Volunteer in Suva with Plan My Gap Year and help to teach and care for children! They will be excited to learn about your culture and life experiences – as a volunteer, you will assist a local teacher with their day-to-day classes, and may even have the opportunity to take the lead in lessons. Younger students enjoy a relaxed and informal teaching experience, so this is a wonderful chance for volunteers who want to be creative and incorporate singing, storytelling, and dance in the classroom. Stay for two weeks or longer, with an affordable starting fee of $390.  Learn more about volunteering in Fiji here!

Love Volunteers

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Love Volunteers

With more than 20,000 travelers placed on impactful trips abroad since 2009 (and 4,000 in the past year!),  Love Volunteers  is one of the fastest growing volunteer organizations that you can be a part of right now. All of Love Volunteers’ trips are affordably-priced, starting from $259 for your first week abroad, depending on where you travel. Love Volunteers has placements in 34 countries worldwide, with more than 120 different projects. Some popular destinations include:

  • Asia:  Nepal ,  Thailand ,  Bali
  • Latin America:  Peru ,  Costa Rica ,  Ecuador
  • Africa:  South Africa ,  Kenya ,  Zambia ,  Tanzania

While most of Love Volunteers’ programs ask that you be 18 or older to sign up, volunteers aged 17 can travel with consent from a parent, while those under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Education Support in Nepal

Located in  Kathmandu , this wonderful program aims to provide quality education to some of Nepal’s poorest children. As a volunteer, you will work alongside local teachers to help with subjects such as English, math, science, history, and geography – you also will play games and read to the children in English to help them develop their language abilities for future education and career prospects. You are invited to stay for one week or longer on this volunteer program, and outside of your work, you will have time to explore Nepal’s colorful capital city as well as its beautiful and historic monuments and temples.  Learn more and sign up here!

Elephant Village Program in Thailand

Based in  Surin , this volunteer trip gives you the opportunity to care for elephants that have been abused and neglected – first used for logging work, which was outlawed in the 1980s, and later used as tourist attractions to help pay for their care. Through Love Volunteers, you can work with an initiative that takes the elephants out of the cities and cares for them in their natural habitats, while also providing livelihood support for their mahouts. This program starts from one week –  click here to learn more!

Turtle Conservation in Costa Rica

If you want to visit the beach and do good, check out Love Volunteers’  turtle conservation program in Costa Rica ! Through your efforts, you can help save sea turtles from extinction by assisting in hatcheries, helping with conservation projects at the beach, releasing hatchlings into the sea, and patrolling hatching grounds to protect eggs from poachers and predators. This project starts from one week –  learn more and apply here!

Education Support in Kenya

On this program, you will travel to  Mombasa, Kenya  to provide classroom support in a primary school or high school, special needs residential school, or a language school for adults. While volunteers with experience and qualifications in education and special needs support generally are placed in the language school and special needs school, those volunteers who are younger or do not have a background in education can find lots of opportunity to work with the younger children through sports, games, and other interactive activities. This program starts from one week –  learn more and apply here!

A Broader View Volunteers Corp (ABV)

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - A Broader View

Founded in 2007,  A Broader View  has placed  >24,000  volunteers on meaningful adventures worldwide. This US-based  nonprofit organization  currently hosts 245 different projects for individuals, groups, and students ( high school and college ) in 25 countries throughout Latin America, Asia, and Africa.

With more than $3 million donated to impactful programs since A Broader View’s founding, this organization truly aims to make a positive impact through its partnerships and volunteer placements. Depending on where you’d like to travel and for how long you’d like to stay, volunteer placements start from $820 for your first week – with flexible start dates – and may be tax-deductible for travelers from the United States.

Student Trip

A Broader View offers 10- to 28-day  trips for students  to visit one of 15 different countries throughout Latin America, Asia, and Africa. These trips combine service learning and leadership, allowing you to learn about global development issues, such as poverty or public health, as well as solutions being put forth within the communities you’ll visit.

Through these programs, students and faculty will have the opportunity to develop a curriculum that fits your educational needs, with hands-on volunteering and adventures such as rafting, tours, and hiking incorporated into the trip. 10-day experiences start from $1,400 per student, and include a custom-designed itinerary and curriculum, housing and meals, in-country transport, adventure activities, presentations, in-country support, academic credit opportunities, and more. Learn more and sign up for a student trip at:  http://student-trip.abroaderview.org

Costa Rica: Sea Turtle Conservation

Through this program, you’re invited to the  Pacific coast of Costa Rica  to volunteer for sea turtle protection. As a volunteer, you will be patrolling the beaches at night to look for nesting sea turtles, collecting eggs as they’re laid and moving them to a nearby hatchery, counting and monitoring eggs in the hatchery, releasing baby turtles to the ocean, and much more to help preserve these endangered animals.

Through your work, you’ll help with ongoing projects being undertaken by researchers and marine biologists in Central America, and you’ll even learn a bit about marine biology and conservation along the way. This project starts from two weeks at $1,300, and is open to individual travelers and to groups. Click here to learn more and to sign up:  www.abroaderview.org/programs/sea-turtle-conservation/costa-rica-pacific-volunteer

Tanzania: Dance Program

On this project, you are invited to  Arusha, Tanzania  to develop dance workshops for local schools and orphanages. Dance is just one of the many amazing aspects of the primary education system and culture that you’ll learn about in Tanzania, and you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to volunteer with children, learn about their culture and dances, and teach them about your culture and background as well. You’re invited to stay for one week or longer, starting at $850. This is a truly unforgettable experience, and if you want to have fun, immerse yourself in an African culture, and volunteer with kids, click here:  https://www.abroaderview.org/programs/dance/tanzania-dance-projects

Cross-Cultural Solutions

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Cross-Cultural Solutions

Since 1995,  Cross-Cultural Solutions  has provided  high school volunteering programs , international internships,  gap year  experiences, and volunteer trips in Costa Rica, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, India, Morocco, Peru, Tanzania, and Thailand. Volunteer programs can range from child development, to girls’ and women’s empowerment, to global health. So far, nearly 35,000 travelers have trusted Cross-Cultural Solutions (with a 99% approval rating from past participants), which has some of the highest standards of safety and well-being in the volunteer abroad industry. As an organization dedicated to quality programming, CCS received  Special Consultative Status with the United Nations  in 2003, has received GreatNonprofits’ top award for the third year in a row, and is accredited by the American Gap Year Association.

Volunteer in Ghana

Cross-Cultural Solutions offers a wonderful opportunity for high school students to  volunteer in Ghana . Through this program, you can choose to focus on education, technology, health, sports leadership, or even embark on a global health internship. Placements last one week, two weeks, or one month, and you’ll volunteer alongside other travelers all aged 14 to 18.  Click here to learn more about summer volunteering opportunities in Ghana!

Volunteer in India

Based in the  Himalayas , this program is a great way to immerse yourself in Indian culture while volunteering on an educational or sports leadership project. If you’re interested in the education program, you will have the chance to provide hands-on tutoring and instruction to local students, or make improvements to libraries and classrooms. If Cross-Cultural Solutions’ sports volunteering program catches your interest, you’ll be able to coordinate sports activities for youth while also building and making improvements to recreational equipment and infrastructure.  Learn more here!

Volunteer in Morocco

Another volunteer opportunity perfect for teens and high school students through Cross-Cultural Solutions is their  Morocco program , where you will be able to travel for one, two, or four weeks to this beautiful country and help with education, health, technology, or sports leadership activities. CCS also offers a four-week global health internship this summer, where you will have the chance to learn from local health care professionals, visit medical facilities, and much more.  Learn more and sign up here!

Raleigh International

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Raleigh International

For more than 30 years,  Raleigh International  has offered trips for high school students to visit and volunteer in Nepal, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Tanzania. Projects focus on clean water and hygiene, sustainable use of natural resources, and community building, and each of Raleigh’s programs incorporates a youth leadership and development component as a way to engage young volunteers and their counterparts in the countries that they serve. With a commitment to quality and support, Raleigh International helped design and currently holds the BS8848 Safety Standard for organizing and managing visits, fieldwork, expeditions, and adventurous activities outside of the UK – and so far, 400,000 young volunteers have traveled with Raleigh International, with another 800 expected to sign up this year. If you’re looking for a great volunteer experience for your summer or spring break, or a gap year before enrolling in college, Raleigh International offers a wide variety of volunteer experiences with a real impact led by multicultural and multinational teams.

Tanzania Expedition

If you’re looking for a summer break adventure, check out Raleigh International’s  Tanzania expedition . On this trip, you will be able to combine volunteering and adventure by helping out with community development and environmental projects, plus picking up wilderness survival skills on a trek to the Southern Highlands.  Volunteer work  can include planting trees, improving access to clean water, and helping with hygiene awareness events. You also will be able to see animals up close on a trip to Ruaha National Park on this expedition, which lasts five, seven, or 10 weeks.  Learn more and sign up here!

Global Leadership Adventures (GLA)

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Global Leadership Adventures

One excellent organization that’s perfect for teen and high school travelers is  Global Leadership Adventures , which is the  top-ranked teen-focused volunteer program  on Volunteer Forever. Founded in 2004, Global Leadership Adventures combines community service, hands-on learning, and adventure travel.

As a youth-centered organization, GLA places a great emphasis on  safety and support , which you can see outlined in its  five-point safety system . And as a forerunner in international service learning, Global Leadership Adventures has a database of nearly 2,000 references willing to vouch for the impact of their programs – in fact, the organization’s co-founder was  recognized by President Obama  for making a positive impact in Africa.  Click here  to learn more about under-18s projects with Global Leadership Adventures!

Dominican Republic: Spring Break Service Adventure

If you want to do more with your spring break, check out Global Leadership Adventures’ Spring Break Adventure in the Dominican Republic. Through this program, you’ll volunteer to build schools and community centers, and help with reforestation or water filtration projects, plus have the chance to visit beaches, explore freshwater lagoons and underwater caverns, and much more. This eight-day program costs $1,899, and 2017 dates are now open for registration –  click here to learn more .

What Volunteers Say: Review from Elizabeth

Last summer, in between my Sophomore and Junior year of high school, I had the pleasure of traveling to the Dominican Republic.  I would strongly recommend this trip to anyone looking to do global community service. The schools that we made (using bottles for insulation) truly made an impact on me because I felt like I was doing something for a new community! Additionally, we did fun activities like zip lining and snorkeling. This trip did an awesome job combining fun with service. Additionally, there was not one time during the trip where I felt unsafe. We were always provided with clean water, knowledgeable mentors, and safe transportation. Finally, this program established people who were culturally-aware. My eyes were opened to a new culture and I was enriched with new experiences. Again,  I would recommend this to anyone who is thinking about doing on a service trip!

Reach Out Volunteers

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Reach Out Volunteers

Since 2010,  Reach Out Volunteers  has provided culturally rich and high-impact volunteer programs for travelers who want to make a difference in impoverished communities, help endangered wildlife, and much more. To date, about 3,500 travelers have signed up with Reach Out Volunteers, with an additional 1,000 expected to embark on trips in 2017.

Reach Out Volunteers also prides itself on the sustainability of its programs, with all projects initiated by the communities in which they work, and all programs employing local, skilled laborers to work alongside their volunteers. For teens and high school students 17 years old and younger, Reach Out Volunteers invites you to sign up if you have written permission from a parent or guardian or if you’re traveling with a legal guardian.

Depending on the program you sign up for, Reach Out Volunteers’ program fees start from $1,599 for a two-week trip, and includes airport pick-up and drop-off, ground transport, food, housing, excursions and activities, project materials, educational materials, and much more.

South Africa Volunteering Adventure

If you’re looking for a unique summer vacation, Reach Out Volunteers is offering a  month-long South Africa Volunteering Adventure  where you’ll be able to volunteer at a local daycare center and at wildlife sanctuaries and parks. Through this program, you’ll help teachers with their lessons and help renovate classrooms at a day care center, and later have the chance to learn about animal conservation, tracking, and much more at sanctuaries and preserves for cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, and other game. In addition to your volunteer work, you’ll be able to go surfing, explore the St. Lucia UNESCO World Heritage Site, go shopping in local markets, visit a Zulu village, and much more. Click here to learn more and to sign up:  www.rovolunteers.com/africa-volunteer-programs.htm

Volunteer Machu Picchu Inca Trail

If you’re looking for a shorter placement, check out Reach Out Volunteers’  volunteer program in Peru , where you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to visit Cusco, Machu Picchu, and much more. As a volunteer, you’ll work with a village to build greenhouses, which help to extend the short growing season to add to the community’s food supply – a vital service for families whose children are at risk of malnutrition. During your stay in Peru, you’ll take cooking lessons, go zip lining, hike Machu Picchu, and lots more. To apply, please visit:  https://www.rovolunteers.com/Volunteer-Machu-Picchu-Inca-Trail.htm

Volunteering Journeys

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Volunteering Journeys

Volunteering Journeys  got its start in 2014, and is growing quickly, offering volunteer abroad placements in India, Thailand, Nepal, Cambodia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Bali.

Volunteering Journeys’ founding story informs and inspires the work carried out by its team and travelers every day: after quitting her job as an investment banker, founder Ridhi Patel took time off in 2009 to volunteer for three months in South Africa. This life-changing experience encouraged her to build a volunteer organization in her home country of India, where she could bring together travelers who wanted to explore the world, give back to their host communities, and learn more about themselves along the way.

Volunteering Journeys prides itself on personal attention and tailored experiences for all participants, as well as high-quality service and placements that actively engage scientists, doctors, teachers, and community leaders. Right now, Volunteering Journeys is offering many different opportunities for teen and high school travelers, including family volunteer holidays,  summer volunteer programs , and teen-friendly placements on many different projects in Africa and Asia.

Construction Projects for Group Volunteering

One excellent volunteer opportunity for volunteer work for teens is Volunteering Journeys’  construction program  in India, Nepal, or Thailand. The purpose of these programs is to build better homes and lives for communities in need, whether it’s through rebuilding houses, churches, schools, day care centers, or other structures. From two-week house building programs in Thailand, to earthquake reconstruction in Nepal, to school construction and renovation in India, there’s lots of opportunity for you to make a positive impact no matter your age. Learn more and sign up  here !

Sea Turtle Conservation in Sri Lanka

Another volunteer opportunity you should definitely check out is Volunteering Journeys’  sea turtle program in Sri Lanka . This program focuses on rehabilitating endangered sea turtles, including green turtles, hawksbills, loggerheads, leatherbacks, and the olive ridley turtle. Perfect for volunteers of all ages, this program invites you to work alongside marine biologists and conservationists to collect data and help with vital research through marine life monitoring, safeguarding eggs, beach cleanup, and releasing hatchlings into the wild.  Learn more and sign up here!

Winter, Spring, and Summer Volunteering in India

If you’re planning a winter, spring, or summer break abroad, Volunteering Journeys’  winter and summer volunteering program in India  should be on your radar. For three weeks, you will have the chance to pursue an incredible adventure where you’ll visit amazing sites in India, volunteer with a community in need, and learn about the cultures of this country. You’ll spend your first two weeks in Kerala, where you’ll volunteer in one of three different programs: English teaching, working with disabled children, or supporting a women’s empowerment initiative, all of which contribute to life skills development and self-confidence for the people you’ll work with. During your third week, you’ll go on a Golden Triangle tour of North India, where you will visit Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, including a stop at the Taj Mahal, and much more.  Click here to learn more and to sign up!

Global Volunteers

Teen and high school volunteer abroad programs - under 18 mission trips - Global Volunteers

Founded in 1984,  Global Volunteers  invites travelers – including high school and college groups – to embark on volunteer vacations and teach abroad placements in 17 countries around the world. Global Volunteers truly makes a difference in the 200 communities in which they work: in 1999, they were granted  Special Consultative Status with the United Nations , and in 2008 formalized  a relationship with UNICEF .

Global Volunteers also emphasizes safety on all of their projects, with CPR and first aid certification provided to team leaders, emergency medical evacuation insurance provided for volunteers serving outside of the US, and emergency contact available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Depending on where you’d like to go, Global Volunteers’ placements start from $1,045 for your first week abroad.

Costa Rica Volunteer Program

On this program, Global Volunteers invites school groups to take on  service-learning  and volunteer projects in  Costa Rica . Through a partnership with the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, your group can help with maintenance and development of the reserve while learning about organic farming, rural tourism, conservation, and gastronomy. During your weekends and free time, you’ll be able to take Spanish lessons, learn Costa Rican history and culture, go horseback riding, and much more. Learn more and sign up at:  https://globalvolunteers.org/costa-rica

Greece Volunteer Program

If you want to visit Europe, check out Global Volunteers’  Greece volunteer program , where your high school or college group can teach conversational English to local students, encourage young adults with special needs, or support children who have been displaced from their homes.

Along with your volunteer experience, you’ll be able to participate in local Cretan dance and music, learn raki making, and truly immerse yourself in the culture while learning some basic Greek language, learning about customs, and much more. Volunteer placements in Greece are customizable to your group’s schedule and goals so you can gain the most from your experience. Learn more and sign up at:  https://globalvolunteers.org/greece

Cuba Volunteer Program

Global Volunteers also is offering an amazing opportunity to volunteer in  Cuba , where you’ll travel to Havana, Ciego de Ávila, or Sancti Spíritus to work alongside community partners to practice conversational English, tend community gardens, improve local buildings, help women with sewing and other crafts, and much more. You’re invited to sign up for one week or longer (starting at $2,595), and in between project work, you’ll have the chance to engage in people-to-people cultural and educational exchange activities.

St. Lucia Volunteer Program

On Global Volunteers’  St. Lucia volunteer program , you’ll support children who are facing challenges in nutrition, healthcare, and education. In partnership with local schools and community organizations, you’ll provide maternal and infant support, present childcare workshops to parents, help with early childhood education, teach health and hygiene lessons, assist with building repair and maintenance projects, tend school gardens, and much more. This project starts from one week at $2,695, with family and group opportunities available as well.

Other Programs to Consider

International Student Volunteers  (ISV):  ISV also has a five-star rating at Volunteer Forever, with sustainable development and conservation programs offered worldwide. University students may be eligible for academic credit for participating as well. Learn more and read reviews  here .

Beyond Student Travel :  With programs in China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Fiji, Panama, and Zambia, Beyond Student Travel programs a wide variety of youth volunteer abroad projects for high school students wanting to volunteer and see the world. Most projects last two to three weeks, and incorporate service learning, career building, language learning, and leadership. Click  here  to learn more.

Walking Tree Travel :  Walking Tree offers internships, alternative breaks, and other volunteer projects in English teaching, environment,  community development , and lots more in a dozen countries. With a mission to inspire individuals to become global citizens and take an interest in the world around them, Walking Tree Travel provides trips geared towards volunteer opportunities for high school students that actively engage travelers within their host communities. Click  here  to read more.

Envoys :  With volunteer and study opportunities for middle- and high-schoolers, Envoys blends education, research, and international travel for a one-of-a-kind learning experience. Projects range from environment, to ecotourism, to  community development , and beyond. Learn more about Envoys  here .

Amizade:  Amizade offers service learning, volunteer, and skills-based programs worldwide for teens and young adults. While Amizade’s service learning projects are available only at the university level, volunteer opportunities for high school students, alternative spring breaks, and other volunteer opportunities are available to teens. Learn more  here .

As you can see, there are tons of great volunteer abroad opportunities outside of the Peace Corps (which requires participants to be 18 and older) that are  available fto younger volunteers—they’re an excellent way for your teen to learn more about the world, build incredibly useful skills, and work with a community program that’s tackling local issues, all while providing an adventure of a lifetime. And as with any volunteer abroad project (perhaps even more so in this case), it’s very important to take your time and do your homework to find an organization that has appropriate placements for students who can contribute the very best they can to a great cause.

Big heart, but little wallet?

Check out our list of  affordable volunteer organizations .

P.S. If you’re still looking for a volunteer opportunity, check out our list of  best volunteer abroad programs  and recommended volunteer projects in  Africa ,  Central America , and  Thailand . You can also read about 7  Great Medical and Veterinary Volunteer Abroad Projects ,  10 Dental Volunteer Abroad Program and Medical Mission Tips for Pre Dental Students , and  nursing volunteer abroad projects for students and nurse professionals . Or, if medical volunteer projects aren’t for you, be sure to read about our  sports and coaching volunteer abroad ,  wildlife conservation and veterinary  abroad,  teach abroad , and  intern abroad  programs. Lastly, if you’re under 18, you may be interested in a  teen volunteer abroad  program from one of our many great partners.

Sarah Vandenberg · Director of Partnerships

Sarah has worked as a researcher and consultant in the volunteer travel world since 2004. With a BA from the George Washington University and background working with both public and private sector volunteer organizations, she enjoys exploring the world and collecting and sharing stories, trends, and advice with travelers who want to volunteer, intern, or teach abroad.

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Costa Rica Explorations

Costa Rica Student Travel Programs

Costa Rica Explorations (CRE) specializes in authentic, cross-cultural, Spanish-immersion, community service-based, and adventure student travel programs to Costa Rica. Our experiential programs are designed for educators, teachers, coaches and/or parents who want to take an pro-active role and offer a real-life, out-of-the-classroom travel experience to their students and children, where they will be exposed to a different culture, language, and way of life.

Quick Links : Our Itineraries | Our Program Model | More About Us | Plan a Trip

costa-rica-student-travel-programs-1

Our Costa Rica Student Travel Program Itineraries

Our trips work best for middle school and high school aged students. However, we have successfully started working with graduating 5th graders from dual language immersion programs. Each individually designed program ranges in duration from 8 – 14 days. The trip’s inclusions are customized by the host educator(s) and/or parents accompanying the group on their travels.

We offer itineraries for the following types of Costa Rica student trips:

  • Costa Rica High School Trips
  • Costa Rica Middle School Trips
  • Costa Rica Service Learning Trips
  • Costa Rica Spanish Immersion Trips
  • Specialty Costa Rica Group Trips

Our Program Model – 3 Phases

We attain our goals by incorporating three equally important components into each program’s itinerary. These elements present themselves at various points throughout the trip and are the foundation of our experiences.

PHASE 1 – Cultural Immersion Through Homestays & Spanish Language

The homestay portion of our Costa Rica student travel programs is the heart and soul of a CRE experience. This element allows the students to integrate into the natural, everyday way of life in a local Costa Rican community. Students will have no choice but to practice their Spanish-speaking skills and learn about the culture and people of Costa Rica through conversations, authentic meals, family activities, and interactions. Students and Costa Ricans gain a mutual understanding and respect for diverse cultures through this experience.

costa-rica-student-travel-programs-homestays

We encourage the majority of nights to be spent in the homestay community. Our typical program has 2 students staying together in one homestay. The homestay families have gone through and passed a rigorous Homestay Selection Process , which includes community referrals, personal visits, and interviews with our staff along with completion of a background check for adults, contracts, and recommendation letters.

PHASE 2 – International Community Service Projects

An important element that is included in all of our student trips to Costa Rica is our authentic service projects. We partner with local community leaders in order to identify specific needs within the each Costa Rican community where the students are living. This close interaction between the community, the students and the service project, allows for the students to experience first-hand their ability to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Take a look at examples of our past projects .

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PHASE 3 – Travel & Reflection

Mixed in along the way will be numerous adventure activities and educational field trips to learn more about the incredible environment of Costa Rica. This element allows for a great deal of customization by the host educator. For example, in the case that you are a science teacher and you want to focus your students on the biodiversity of the rainforest or birds than inhabit this environment, we can assist you with precisely focused activities to accomplish this. This practice applies to history and culture in Costa Rica, as well as a closer look at culture and religion and even sports and traditional activities.

Our program itineraries include adventure and team-building activities in order to celebrate students hard work on their service project and to challenge students personal and group goals. These adventure activities call for teamwork and perseverance a combination of efforts that result in personal growth.

Students learn important travel skills to prepare them for more independent travel opportunities in the future, such as study abroad programs after high school or during college or university. Our program model is designed to give middle and high school students a positive first experience in traveling independent from their families in a controlled, safe, and supervised environment.

Reflection is a key component to learning. We value daily personal and group reflection in order take the time to soak in our daily lessons and observations. These reflective moments key to evaluating and redefining our goals are woven into each of our program itineraries.

The End Result …Individual Student & Group Development!

Our student travel program model challenges students and teachers to step outside of their comfort zones. Depending on the participant, this may happen while completing the service project or during a homestay experience. It could occur during a team-building activity or while participating in an adventure activity. Perhaps it may happen when Spanish skills are essential in order to navigate a new town. Whenever it may occur, students and teachers are encouraged and supported by their professional guides and their own group members to work through the challenge. This is the real-life learning, the “magic”, that takes place during our educational student programs. Students return to their homes with an increased self-confidence and self-esteem. They become feel stronger and are more knowledgeable individuals. Alumni students and teachers tend to be more accepting of themselves and those around them. They gain new perspectives of themselves and what they are capable of accomplishing in the world. Our hope is that they become our future global leaders.

More About Costa Rica Explorations

Private group & student travel specialists.

We coordinate privately contracted itineraries for groups. We do not offer open-enrollment trips. Our focus is on collaboration between our organization and the school or educational system/program with which we partner. We strive to nurture long-term relationships with the schools and educational organizations that we work with in the hopes that not only individual relationships develop, but that a bond between communities also forms and is nurtured over time.

Adult Chaperones for All Student Travel Programs

costa-rica-student-travel-programs-rafting

Every group that inquires to work with us must have an adult who will act as the liaison between the group of students/participants and CRE. This adult will partner with CRE to coordinate the group of students by marketing the trip and organizing the students’ paperwork for their participation. We provide all of the necessary paperwork and support the organizing adult/host teacher through the planning process. The goal is to make organizing an international student travel program as easy as possible so that the educator can communicate the information to interested students, parents, and organizational decision-makers with ease.

Safe Environments & Well-Established Curriculum

All of our Costa Rica student travel programs are designed around a well-established curriculum within proven and safe homestay environments located in the mountains of the scenic and peaceful town of Turrialba, Costa Rica. Our sample itineraries are merely a starting point for us to collaborate and work from. We encourage the host educator to assist within the planning process as much as she or he wants.

Education Through Volunteering & Customized Trips

Our programs are meant for those who would like to travel abroad to Costa Rica and improve their Spanish-speak skills while volunteering to help the citizens of Costa Rica in an authentic community service project! We work side-by-side schools and organizations to customize a student travel trip that fits the unique needs of your group.

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30 Most Prestigious Summer Programs for High Schoolers in 2024

What’s covered:.

  • What Makes a Summer Program Prestigious?
  • 30 Most Prestigious Summer Programs for High Schoolers

For many high schoolers, summer vacation means sleeping in, lazy days on the couch catching up on Netflix, and hanging out with friends. While these activities sound good, they, unfortunately, don’t do much to improve a student’s chances of getting into a top school.  

Luckily, summer programs allow talented young students to explore their fields of interest, get a taste of college life, and make new friends while enriching their minds and improving their application profile. Lasting anywhere from a week to a month (or longer), the majority of these programs still leave time for those traditional summer vacation activities, too. 

What Makes a Summer Program Prestigious? 

Just as summer programs encompass a wide variety of subjects, run for varying lengths, and cost different amounts, the prestige of summer programs also differs. The most prestigious summer programs are selective and free, like the Anson L. Clark Scholars Program which accepts just 12 students annually and rewards participants with a stipend. 

Less impressive summer programs accept most students and often require paying a hefty fee. Some of these summer programs are held at selective colleges and universities, which has led to the misconception that attending one can bolster your odds of admission at the school. Attending a summer program at a selective college will not really help your chances of admission to the school, though it will help you to get a feel for what the campus and the surrounding area are like. 

The Four Tiers of Extracurricular Activities are useful for understanding the prestige differences between summer programs. The highest tiers—Tiers 1 and 2—are reserved for uncommon and attention-grabbing summer programs (highly selective and usually free), while the lower tiers—Tiers 3 and 4—are for more common and less impressive summer programs (less selective and typically pricey).

CollegeVine’s free chancing engine is another great tool for gauging the prestige of summer programs. It can help you assess the strength of your extracurricular profile and organize your activities outside the classroom, like summer programs, into Tiers. 

Most Prestigious Summer Programs for High Schoolers 

1. telluride association summer seminar (tass).

Dates: June 23 – August 3

Location: Cornell University, University of Maryland, and University of Michigan

Application Deadline : January 3 

Cost: Free 

The Telluride Association Summer Seminar is a six-week program that allows rising high school juniors and seniors with diverse backgrounds from around the world to study how power and privilege shape social structures through courses in humanities and social sciences. Attendees are intellectually curious and motivated learners who commonly go on to attend some of the country’s finest colleges and universities. 

TASS is completely free, including the cost of tuition, books, room and board, and even travel if necessary—eliminating any financial barriers that may prevent the brightest minds from attending. 

2. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Dates: June 23 – August 3 

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Application Deadline : N/A

The Research Science Institute gathers 100 of the world’s most outstanding high school students at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for a free, five-week program where they can experience the research cycle in its entirety. Combining on-campus coursework in scientific theory with off-campus work in science and technology research, RSI students produce individual projects guided by experienced scientists and researchers, culminating in written and oral presentations of their projects.

3. Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES)

Dates: Late June – Early August

Application Deadline : February 15 

MITES is a residential program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) aimed at students interested in pursuing a degree—and subsequently a career—in the STEM fields. Program participants are academically talented and come from diverse, underrepresented, or underserved backgrounds. 

Throughout this six-week residential program, high school juniors develop the skills necessary for success in STEM fields while learning about the value and reward of acquiring advanced technical degrees. 

4. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)

Dates: June 30 – August 10

Location: Boston University 

Application Deadline : March 1

Cost: $6,100

Founded in 1989, PROMYS is a six-week residential program enrolling approximately 80 carefully chosen, mathematically gifted high school students who are at least 14 years old and have completed ninth grade. 

Attendees of PROMYS are not treated as students; rather, PROMYS participants are thought of as mathematicians. Throughout the program, these young mathematicians explore the field supported by their peers, counselors, research mathematicians, and research scientists.

PROMYS does have a higher price tag, however, the program is free for domestic students whose families make under $80,000 per year. Financial aid is also provided based on demonstrated need. 

5. Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)  

  • Residential: June 30 – August 9 
  • Commuter: July 1 – August 9

Application Deadline : February 14

  • Tuition: $5,350
  • Room and board: $3,120 – $3,426

RISE is a six-week summer program at Boston University (BU) for the nation’s best and brightest scientifically minded high school juniors. Participants in the RISE program are afforded two tracks: internship and practicum. 

Students opting for the internship track will gain hands-on experience with research projects and work under the mentorship of distinguished faculty, post-doctoral fellows, and graduate students with opportunities in fields such as astronomy, biology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, medical laboratory research, neuroscience, physics, psychology, and public health.  

The practicum track is focused on computational biology and follows a set syllabus, making it an ideal choice for students who prefer more structured study.

6. The Summer Science Program (SSP)

Dates: Varies 

Location: New Mexico State University, University of Colorado-Boulder, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Purdue University,  and Indiana University 

Application Deadline : February 16 

Cost: Up to $8,800 (the program fee is scaled to what a student can afford) 

The SSP is a 60+-year-old program designed to help future scientists, doctors, engineers, and entrepreneurs realize their full potential. By providing the role models, intellectually-equivalent peers, challenges, and inspiration that SSP participants often find lacking in their schools, the program immerses talented rising seniors from across the globe in experimental science. 

Throughout the intensive 39-day program, students conduct a research project from beginning to end, take field trips, listen to guest speakers, and, most importantly, partake in a life-changing experience. 

The SSP practices need-blind admissions—an applicant’s ability to pay for the program isn’t factored into admission decisions. The cost of the program is scaled based on family income, with students from more affluent families paying more and those from lower-income families paying less, if anything at all.

7. Boys State / Girls State

Dates: Varies

Location: Varies 

Application Deadline : Varies 

Cost: Generally free 

Boys State was founded in 1935 by two Illinois Legionnaires and the first Girls State was held three years later in 1938—these two summer programs teach high school juniors about the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of U.S. citizens, along with the structure of city, county, and state governments. 

This intensive one-week program divides students into parties, elects officials, and works to carry out basic functions such as writing, proposing, and passing bills. Other Boys/Girls State activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, choruses, and recreational programs.

8. Boys Nation / Girls Nation

  • Boys Nation: July 19 – 26
  • Girls Nation: July 20 – 27 

Location: Washington D.C. 

Since 1946, Boys Nation has convened each summer to form a Senate in Washington, D.C., made up of representatives from the 49 Boys States (every U.S. state is represented except Hawaii). The first Girls Nation gathered the following year in 1947. 

Each state sends two students (who have completed their junior year and have at least one semester of high school remaining) to act as Senators representing their state. Throughout the week-long program, students gain first-hand experience of the inner workings of government, listen to lectures, participate in forums, and visit notable D.C. sites. The highlight of the program for many Boys/Girls Nation senators is the opportunity to meet with elected officials from their home states.

9. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)

  • Session1: June 17 – July 5
  • Session 2: July 8 – 26 

Location: Stanford University 

Application Deadline : February 1 

  • Online: $3,550
  • Residential: $8,250

SUMaC is offered as both a residential program at Stanford University and online. The program is for high-achieving high school juniors and seniors seeking to be challenged in mathematics and with a desire to learn about the latest in mathematical research and the application of mathematics across scientific fields.

Throughout the program, participants learn about advanced mathematics through lectures, guided research, and group problem-solving. SUMaC also provides students with a sample of a college-level workload—delivering rigorous coursework along with challenging assignments to complete outside of meeting times.

10. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Dates: June 10 – August 1 

Application Deadline : February 24 

Students are invited to perform basic research on a medically focused project through the eight-week-long SIMR. The program aims to help students gain a deeper understanding of how scientific research is conducted, introduce them to careers in the biological sciences and medicine, and increase diversity in the field. 

There are eight areas of research available for students to participate in: immunology, neurobiology, cancer biology, bioengineering, stem cell and regenerative medicine, cardiovascular biology, bioinformatics, and genetics and genomics. 

The program is open to all domestic high school juniors and seniors, however, priority is given to Bay Area students. Students from groups underrepresented in biomedical research are encouraged to apply. Not only is SIMR free, but students receive a stipend for their participation.

11. Stanford Medical Youth Science Program

Dates: June 4 – July 26

Location: Stanford University

Application Deadline : March 15

This selective five-week program—only about 24 students are selected—is open to high school juniors in Northern California from low-income and first-generation families. The program aims to help students develop academically and empower them to begin their college and medical careers. Throughout the program, participants engage in lectures, take part in professional development workshops, attend networking events, and conduct research projects while being mentored by Stanford faculty and health professionals.

Not only is the Stanford Medical Youth Science Program free, but participants receive a $1,250 clinical research stipend.

12. Science Internship Program (SIP)

Dates: June 10 – August 10 

Location: University of California-Santa Cruz (UCSC)

Application Deadline : March 31 

Cost: $4,000

The SIP at the University of California-Santa Cruz (UCSC) gives high-achieving and driven students the rare chance to work and learn at a premier research institution. Projects are available in fields such as science, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and art.  

For more than a decade, this nine-week program has allowed students to spend their summer working on authentic open-ended science research projects while being mentored by UCSC faculty, graduate students, and post-doctoral researchers. The program is open to high schoolers in grades 9 through 12 and presents a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in a STEM field to see scientific research “in action.”

13. Economics for Leaders (EFL)

Application Deadline : Rolling 

Cost: $2,300 

This week-long program occurring at colleges and universities across the country (as well as virtually) gives future leaders hands-on experience using economics in the decision-making process. EFL seeks to make budding leaders more effective by showing them how to use economic analysis when considering public policy choices while also creating a deeper understanding of leadership and building leadership skills.

EFL is open to high school sophomores and juniors and is competitive—just 25 to 40 students are accepted at each site. 

14. Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

Dates: June 22 – August 3 

Location: Carnegie Mellon University 

SAMS is a six-week residential program at Carnegie Mellon University for current high school juniors age 16 or older interested in pursuing an undergraduate STEM degree. Participants in SAMS develop a deeper knowledge and a better understanding of a variety of STEM fields through classroom instruction, hands-on learning, and consistent engagement with faculty and staff mentors. 

SAMS strongly encourages students from backgrounds underrepresented in STEM to apply.  

15. The Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics (HCSSiM)

Dates: June 30 – August 10 

Location: Hampshire College 

Cost: $5,882  

Entering its 52nd year, HCSSiM is a residential six-week advanced mathematics program held at Hampshire College in which talented students from around the world spend a large portion of their days engaged in mathematics—not just the results of math problems. 

HCSSiM’s mission is to prepare and motivate high school students to pursue degrees, and ultimately careers, in mathematics. HCSSiM offers participants unparalleled access to faculty in classrooms, at mealtimes, and in the dorms. HCSSiM attracts a diverse group of students—typically the number of girls and non-binary students equals the number of boys. 

The cost of the program is $5,882, although the program is free for domestic students from families with household incomes less than $68,000.

Dates: August 3 – 9 

Location: Austin, Texas 

Application Deadline : March 2 

Founded in 2001 to address the lack of diversity in the media, JCamp brings high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors from a wide variety of cultural, racial, religious, and political backgrounds (to name a few) together for six days of intense journalism training. 

Participating in sessions and workshops led by journalists employed by top media companies, students get hands-on training in broadcasting, print journalism, photojournalism, and online media—and produce media packages for the program’s news site. 

JCamp is free if selected to attend; the program covers the cost of everything from airfare to housing to meals.

17. MathILy

Dates: June 30 – August 3

Location: Bryn Mawr College

Application Deadline : April 30 

Cost: $5,300

Serious mathematics infused with levity, MathILy is a marvelous five-week residential program at Bryn Mawr College. Led by mathematicians possessing PhDs and supported by graduate and undergraduate students, MathILy participants learn to improve their problem-solving ability, hone their critical thinking skills, meet other incredibly talented young mathematicians, and work on lots of advanced math problems. 

When not tackling topics such as combinatorial optimization, generating functions, information theory, knot theory, and Markov chain modeling, students will participate in program-wide discussions about college choices and career possibilities inside and outside of mathematics. 

Only about 30 students are selected to participate in MathILy annually.

18. High School Honors Science, Math and Engineering Program (HSHSP)

Dates: June 16 – August 3

Location: Michigan State University 

Application Deadline : March 1 

Since 1988, HSHSP has given students entering their senior year of high school the opportunity to gain first-hand research experience in a university environment. Drawing talented and driven students from across the United States and its territories to Michigan State University, this seven-week residential program allows students to make connections with like-minded students from diverse backgrounds, build friendships, and increase their knowledge of science and mathematics while fostering a passion for the field.

19. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program  

Dates: June 16 – August 1

Location: Texas Tech University

Application Deadline : February 15

The distinguishing characteristic of the Anson L. Clark Scholars Program is that it’s open to students in a wide range of fields—from biology to computer science to history. This extremely competitive program attracts applicants from across the globe to Texas Tech University and acceptance to the program is a feather in the cap of any college-bound student.

Participants are afforded the unique opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in their field while working one-on-one with faculty over the program’s seven intense weeks. Many Clark Scholars use the experience to shape their future college and career goals. The Clark Scholar Program is free for chosen applicants—the only cost students are responsible for is their transportation to and from the program. In fact, a stipend is awarded upon the student’s completion of a research project report.

This program is open to rising and graduating high school juniors; only 12 students are chosen each summer.

20. Notre Dame Summer Scholars

  • Session 1: June 8 – 22
  • Session 2: June 29 – July 13

Location: University of Notre Dame 

Application Deadline : February 20 

Cost: $4,725

During an intense two weeks, rising juniors and seniors enrolled in the Summer Scholars program are given a taste of life on a college campus. Participating in one of 31 fields of study ranging from accounting to world politics and power, Summer Scholars get a preview of college academics while earning one college credit for completing the program. 

Of course, there is much more to college than just the classroom—summer scholars are encouraged to work together on coursework outside of class and ample time is provided to sample the social side of college life.

21. Hk Maker Lab

Dates: July 8 – August 13 

Location: Columbia University 

Application Deadline : February 2

This free four-week summer program at the Columbia University School of Engineering allows students to tackle a hands-on design project under the guidance of the university’s renowned faculty and present it to the community. The program is for New York City high school juniors and seniors from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. 

22. Tufts University Biomedical Engineering Research Scholars (TUBERS) Program

Dates: July 1 – August 16 

Location: Tufts University 

This six-week program for academically talented students teaches research techniques, experimental protocols, making predictions, and testing hypotheses. Participants will leave the program with a completed research project that they can enter in local and national science competitions. 

The program is open to students age 16 and older and is free, however, participants must arrange their own transportation to and from the Tufts campus in Medford, Massachusetts, and housing is unavailable to out-of-state students. 

23. Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS)

Dates: June 23 – July 19

Location: Pomona College

Application Deadline : February 26

Cost: Free  

PAYS helps prepare talented local high schoolers—rising sophomores through rising seniors—for admission to some of the country’s best colleges and universities. Over 90 students (roughly 30 sophomores, 30 juniors, and 30 seniors) are selected annually to participate in the four-week residential program, where they engage in a variety of activities, including classwork, cultural events, workshops, projects, and field trips. 

PAYS is free and aimed at students traditionally underrepresented in higher education, such as students who are the first in their family to attend college, from low-income families, and from racial/ethnic groups like African American, Latino, Native American, and Pacific Islander. 

24. Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement  

Dates: June 17 – July 19

Location: University of Southern California (USC) 

Application Deadline : March 22 

Just 26 students from the communities surrounding the USC University Park and Health Science Campuses are selected to participate in this prestigious summer program. The program exposes participants to college-level work while helping them develop a better understanding of the role that media communications and journalism play in fashioning civic-minded thought leaders and innovators. 

Program participants also build valuable skills like writing, critical thought, public speech and debate, multimedia production, interviewing, and ethnography while exploring career paths in media and journalism.

25. Broad Summer Scholars Program

Dates: June 3 – August 2 

Location: Broad Institute 

Application Deadline : January 10 

This six-week program is perfect for rising Massachusetts high school seniors with an interest in science. Participants are paired with scientists to conduct original cutting-edge research projects in fields like cancer biology, psychiatric disease, chemical biology, computational biology, and infectious disease. 

In addition to performing research, participants will present their findings at a scientific poster session, attend a college fair, meet like-minded students, and have fun! Not only is the Broad Summer Scholars Program free, but participants receive a $3,600 stipend at its conclusion.

26. Ross Mathematics Program

  • Otterbein University: June 9 – July 19
  • Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology: June 16 – July 26

Location: Otterbein University and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Cost: $7,000

The Ross Mathematics program traces its roots to the launch of the Sputnik satellite in the 1950s and the surge of interest it spurred in science education. Today, this six-week residential program encourages students to explore mathematics—such as careers where math plays a vital role, like research, science, and finance—and discover how it’s used for critical thinking and informed citizenship.

Admission to the Ross Mathematics Program is competitive. Only about 60 students are accepted at each location and in 2023 just ≈15% of applicants were accepted.

27. Simons Summer Research Program

Dates: July 1 – August 9

Location: Stony Brook University

Application Deadline : February 7

Established four decades ago as an outreach program for local students, today the Simons Summer Research Program attracts high-achieving students from across the country. The program is aimed at rising juniors and provides them with the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in science, math, or engineering.

Participants are matched with faculty mentors, join a research team, and are responsible for the project. They’ll also attend workshops, listen to lectures, take tours, and attend special events. The program concludes with participants producing a written research abstract and research poster.

Not only is this program free, but students are awarded a stipend for their participation in the program.

28. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

Dates: June 1 – August 10

Location: Bar Harbor, Maine, and Farmington, Connecticut

Application Deadline : January 29

High school and college students from across the nation compete for a spot in this competitive summer program—just 40 students are selected. Participants immerse themselves in genetics and genomics research while gaining a deeper understanding of laboratory work, building communication skills, and experiencing personal growth.

Participants develop an independent research project, implement their plan, analyze the data, and report the results. The program concludes with students presenting their findings to their parents, peers, and researchers.

Students are awarded a $6,500 stipend for participating in the program.

29. Princeton Summer Journalism Program

Dates: July 26 – August 5

Location: Princeton University and online

This free program for aspiring journalists is open to high school juniors. This hybrid program begins with online workshops and lectures and concludes with a 10-day residential institute at Princeton—giving participants a taste of college life at a world-renowned university. The program culminates with the publication of a newspaper, The Princeton Summer Journal.

In addition to journalism-focused activities, students will also prepare for college—learning about the college application process, crafting essays, discovering how to find best-fit schools, gaining an understanding of how applications are evaluated, and meeting with college admissions representatives.

30. Iowa Young Writers’ Studio

  • Session 1: June 16 – 29
  • Session 2: July 14 – 27

Location: University of Iowa

Application Deadline : February 4

Cost: $2,500

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio is a two-week summer residential program that gives promising high school writers the chance to study and live at the home of one of the country’s oldest and most renowned writing programs. Students can select from one of five core courses, each with a seminar and workshop component to them. The five core courses are:

  • Creative Writing
  • TV Writing/Writer’s Room
  • Playwriting

Participants in the program will meet other aspiring young writers, get to share their writing, receive constructive criticism, and ultimately hone their craft.

As you can see, there are prestigious summer programs for high schoolers across the country in a wide array of fields and subjects. Make sure you thoroughly research the options available to you and look into the details of each program you are considering. Also, remember that while it’s fantastic to participate in one of these highly selective and impressive programs, it’s not the end of the world if you don’t get in. There are plenty of enriching ways you can spend your summer that can still look just as impressive on a college application.

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UHD Offers Life-Changing Summer Programs for High School Students

April 23, 2024

As Houston's summers become hotter, so does the University of Houston-Downtown's (UHD) commitment to its mission to "nurture talent, generate knowledge, and drive socioeconomic mobility for a just and sustainable future." That's why during Summer 2024, UHD is investing in the future of high schoolers through educational programs aimed at changing the trajectories of their lives: The UHD "Get Ready Gators" Summer Bridge Program 2024, the Texas Talent Connection Project , Houston PREP and the National Summer Transportation Institute Program 2024.

"We understand how formidable higher education can seem for all high schoolers, but especially first-generation students," said UHD President Loren J. Blanchard. "At the University of Houston-Downtown, faculty and staff come together in providing a safety net through both academic and basic needs support. Our Culture of Care is palpable, and these three summer programs aimed at high school students are further proof of our dedication to empowering those who dream of a college education to better themselves, their families, and their communities."

The UHD "Get Ready Gators" Summer Bridge Program 2024

Geared toward first-time college students, The UHD "Get Ready Gators" Summer Bridge Program is a five-week intensive academic college preparation program designed to aid first-year students in strengthening their academic skills and social integration. Importantly, Summer Bridge helps high school seniors transition from high school to university life by providing an engaging and rewarding collegiate experience.

Summer Bridge is free to all graduating Houston-area high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.25-2.6, allowing them to earn college credits before the fall 2024 semester. From July 8 to August 8, Monday through Friday, participants will engage with faculty in small groups, and receive academic support and mentoring as well as specialized peer support for Math and English.

Houston PREP

The goal of Houston PREP (Pre-Freshmen Enrichment Program) is to bolster socially and economically disadvantaged middle and high school students' academic foundations in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), potentially over a four-year period. Program participants are high achieving seventh, eighth, and ninth grade students who agree to commit themselves to intellectually demanding classes from June 12 to July 12. The 2024 program takes place at UHD, is free and provides lunch. Free transportation is available for Aldine, Alief, and Galena Park ISD students.

The four-year successive summer program consists of the following components:

  • Engineering
  • Problem Solving
  • Computer Science

Second Year

  • Algebraic Structure
  • Probability and Statistics
  • SAT Preparatory
  • Technical Writing

Fourth Year

The curriculum of Houston PREP has been approved for high school elective credit (one to three units) by the Texas Education Agency. In addition, students graduating from Houston PREP are eligible for scholarships at UHD.

Houston PREP is part of the successful TexPREP initiative of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). Over the last 35 years, UHD's Houston PREP has enrolled more than 6,000 students in the program. According to the most recent follow-up survey of college-age PREP participants, 99.9% of respondents graduated from high school. In this surveyed group, 94% are college students or college graduates with more than 68% enrolled in STEM fields or pursuing STEM careers.

UHD National Summer Transportation Institute Program 2024

High school students interested in all things transportation will be in Nirvana for two weeks this summer, July 1-12 (no program on July 4). The UHD National Summer Transportation Institute (NSTI) will present an intensive, face-to-face focus on research/academic/transportation training and STEM research mentorship through laboratory-based experiences in National Transportation Institute STEM.

This camp will provide the needed foundation for future entrance into university programs and into the workforce. Students will learn about bridge/overpass structural analyses, traffic light timing devices and other in control process engineering, drone/robotic technology, and safety across all types of outdoor/indoor situation associated with transportation. Two to three field trips will include TranStar, the ION, and Galveston—with a visit to the Train Museum and the Elissa.

Throughout the two-week program, working lunches will include expert speakers from across the transportation sector in Texas, including Workforce Solutions and the TAMU Texas Transportation Institute.

A total of 35 qualifying pre-college students (grades nine-12) will be selected to participate in this program to be held on the UHD campus. The application is online . Following the completion of the camp, all participants will be encouraged to apply for UHD Admissions and Scholars Academy scholarships, enabling participants to graduate from UHD and enter the workforce with minimal to zero college loan debt.

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61+ student discounts that will help you save money this school year

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Back-to-school season is here, and if you're a student, you’re probably starting to think about how exactly you’ll spend your money this year. Whether you’re on the hunt for dorm room essentials , amenities like fitness programs or school supplies like backpacks , all that shopping may mean a great deal of budgeting.

Taking advantage of student discounts is one of the best ways to make the most of your back-to-school budget. Numerous brands and retailers offer savings exclusive to college students, and gaining access to them is often as simple as showing your student ID in stores or verifying your school email address online. You can save even more by using a cash back app or credit card while shopping, some of which let you earn credits to use toward future purchases.

SKIP AHEAD   How I picked the best student discounts | Best student discounts | Why trust NBC Select?

To help you survive on a student budget, I rounded up over 50 student discount programs you can take advantage of this year. I also consulted shopping experts about how and where to find these offerings while you shop.

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How i picked the best student discounts.

To recommend the best student discounts, I consulted sites like UNiDAYS , Student Beans , SheerID and ID.me , which aggregate student discount offerings from brands and retailers across shopping categories. Some also act as a third-party verification service to confirm your student status. I rounded up a handful of student discounts below from brands and retailers we’ve previously covered, in addition to a few others I think you should know about.

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive. Thousands of companies offer student discounts in stores and online, so check if the brand or retailer you’re shopping from offers a student discount program before you make a purchase and how you can take advantage of it.

Best retailer-wide student discounts

  • Amazon : Students can get a free six-month trial of Amazon Prime Student, which is usually limited to one month. Once the trial ends, students can continue their subscription for $7.49 a month, rather than the usual $15. The membership comes with offers like a free monthly Grubhub+ Student membership with unlimited delivery and up to 10% off flights and hotels through StudentUniverse .
  • Target : Students with a Target Circle membership can get 20% off one qualifying store purchase now through Sept. 28. Target Circle is a free loyalty program through which you get exclusive coupons year round.
  • Walmart : Now through Sept. 13, students can get a Walmart+ membership for $6.47 per month or $49 per year, roughly half off a standard membership ($98 a year). The membership comes with free delivery on orders $35 or more, free shipping with no order minimum, an included Paramount Plus subscription, savings on fuel and more.
  • Groupon : Groupon’s Select Student Program gets you up to 25% off every time you shop a local deal, and up to 10% off travel, tickets and events and more.

Best student discounts on dorm and school supplies

  • Muji : 10% off your purchase
  • Chegg : Get subscriptions to Max , Adobe Acrobat , Tinder Gold and more through Chegg Student Perks, available with a Chegg Study Pack subscription
  • Mattress Firm : Up to 20% off your purchase online or in stores
  • Brooklyn Bedding : 30% off your purchase plus free shipping
  • Corkcicle : 20% off your purchase
  • Stanley : 20% off your purchase
  • FedEx : Up to 30% off select shipping and packing services with a valid student ID
  • The Happy Planner : 15% off your purchase
  • Redbubble : 24% off your purchase

Best student discounts on streaming services and entertainment

  • Peacock : Peacock Premium for $1.99 a month
  • Hulu : Hulu with ads for $1.99 per month
  • Spotify : Spotify Premium for $5.99 per month, which includes three months free and access to Hulu (with ads)
  • Apple Music : $5.99 per month, plus free access to Apple  TV+ for a limited time
  • AMC : Discounts offered by presenting a student ID at participating theaters
  • YouTube : Ad-free subscriptions to YouTube and YouTube Music for $7.99 per month, plus one month free
  • Paramount Plus : Paramount Plus Essential Plan for $5.99 per month
  • Pandora : Pandora Premium Student for $5.99 per month, plus 60 days free
  • Tidal : Ad-free subscription for $5.49 a month, with the option to include add-ons for additional fees
  • Headspace : Headspace Student Plan for $9.99 a year
  • Soundcloud : Soundcloud Go+ for $5.49 per month

Best student discounts on groceries and meal delivery services

  • Doordash : DashPass membership for $4.99 a month, which includes $0 delivery fees, 5% DoorDash credits on pickup orders and more
  • Blue Apron : $110 off across five orders and free shipping on your first order through Student Beans
  • HelloFresh : 55% off your first box with free shipping, plus 15% off one year of deliveries
  • EveryPlate : 75% off your first box with free shipping, plus 15% off one year of deliveries
  • Shipt : $4.99 a month for a Shipt Student Membership, which includes discounted same-day delivery from participating stores
  • Home Chef : 50% off your first four meal boxes

Best student discounts on flights, hotels and travel

  • StudentUniverse : Find discounted flights, hotels and other travel bookings through StudentUniverse
  • Amtrak : 15% off purchases made one day in advance
  • Getaway : 15% off your booking
  • United Airlines : 18 to 23 year olds get 5% off flights if you book through United app and sign up for a free MileagePlus account

Best student discounts on clothes, shoes and accessories

  • Girlfriend Collective : 20% off your purchase
  • Madewell : 15% off your purchase online and in stores
  • J. Crew : 15% off your purchase online and in stores
  • Nike : 10% off your purchase online and in the Nike App
  • Reebok : 50% off your purchase
  • Adidas : 30% off your purchase online and in stores
  • New Balance : 15% off your purchase plus free shipping
  • Outdoor Voices : 15% off your purchase

Best student discounts on tech and software

  • Apple : College students can get a discount on select tech starting at $50 off, 20% off AppleCare+, credit with Apple Trade In and more
  • AT&T : Save $10 per month for up to five phone lines through the AT&T Signature Program
  • Microsoft : 10% off select products from the Microsoft store
  • Microsoft Office : Microsoft 365 Personal for $2.99 per month
  • Adobe Creative Cloud : Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps plan for $19.99 per month up until Sept. 2
  • HP : Up to 40% off tech once you join the HP Education Store Program
  • Lenovo : Get access to exclusive savings on select products once you verify your student status during the checkout process
  • Logitech : 30% off your purchase
  • Evernote : 40% off Evernote Professional
  • Samsung : Up to 30% off your purchase through the Education Offers Program using an eligible school email
  • Verizon : Get mobile plans starting at just $12 a month, and Fios Home Internet starting at $15

Best student discounts on fitness and wellness

  • Alo Moves : One month free and then pay $5 per month or $49 per year
  • Aaptiv : 50% off a monthly or yearly subscription
  • Peloton App : $6.99 per month
  • Pvolve : 20% off sitewide, including digital memberships and equipment
  • The Sculpt Society : 30% off monthly memberships
  • Talkspace : Take $100 off your first month
  • Headspace : Get an annual plan for 9.99 (85% off the regular price)

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Frequently asked questions.

Student discounts are available to undergraduate and graduate students with proof of enrollment at a college or university, which is often in the form of a .edu email address. Sometimes, student discounts also extend to high school students if they have a school-issued ID or a .edu email address, but the majority of discounts are for college students.

If a brand or retailer offers a student discount program, you’ll likely have to prove that you’re a student before gaining access to the promo code, says Kristin McGrath, a shopping expert at RetailMeNot , a deal-finding and cash back site.

In stores, you can usually just show a cashier your ID. But if you’re shopping online, some brands and retailers use third-party verification services like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, SheerID and ID.me to verify your student status. These services may require you to make a free account with them by inputting your .edu email address, college or university name and graduation year. Once you’re a verified student, the service saves your information and automatically applies the discount when you purchase from the student discount page on an affiliated retailer’s site.

Time frames on student discounts vary, so it’s important to read the fine print before using a promo code online or checking out in-person. Some student discounts are available year round, while others have expiration dates, says McGrath. A handful of brands and retailers, for example, only offer student discounts around the back-to-school season.

It’s also important to understand whether the student discount applies to your entire cart or a single item, says McGrath. Some merchants offer a deep, one-time discount on your entire cart, so shoppers can stock up on everything they need and apply the promo code to a pricier transaction, says Vipin Porwal, CEO and consumer savings expert at Smarty . Other merchants, however, allow you to take advantage of their student discounts multiple times, whether it’s on every purchase you make or one item every month or so.

If you’re shopping from a site that offers a student discount year round but you can only take advantage of it once, strategize before using the promo code, says McGrath. She recommends using bigger, non-student specific promo codes while they’re live and saving your student discount for a time when no better discount is available.

In addition to acting as third-party verification sites, UNiDAYS, Student Beans, SheerID and ID.me also aggregate student discounts offered by brands and retailers, making it easy for you to learn which companies offer savings opportunities. All of these websites allow you to search for specific brands and retailers, or you can browse discounts by category like office supplies or fashion. You can also see if savings are available in-person, online or both.

Beyond browsing the student discounts brands and retailers offer, be sure to check with your school to see if it offers its own exclusive discounts, says Porwal. “Often schools negotiate excellent deals with manufacturers that compete, or exceed, what retailers can provide,” he says.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

  • Kristin McGrath is a shopping expert at RetailMeNot , a deal-finding and cash back site.
  • Vipin Porwal is the CEO and a consumer savings expert at Smarty .

Why trust NBC Select?

I am an associate updates editor at NBC Select, where I have written a variety of articles for sales events including Amazon Prime Day and Labor Day . For this article, I spoke with two retail experts about how to find the best student discounts, and rounded up options based on their guidance.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

high school travel programs

Zoe Malin is an associate updates editor for Select on NBC News.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, alternatives to college and military after high school.

Hi everyone! I'm a high school junior, not too sure if I want to go directly to college or the military after graduation. What other paths should I consider? I'd appreciate any advice you have for me!

Hey there, glad to see you're exploring all your options for after high school. Some alternatives to college and the military can include:

1. Pursuing a Trade: Trade or vocational schools offer specialized training in areas like electric work, plumbing, culinary arts, and more. These careers often pay well and have high demand.

2. Gap Year Programs: If you need some time to figure things out, a gap year can be useful. These can involve travel, internships, or work experience programs that give you new perspectives and time to decide your next step.

3. Apprenticeships: These offer on-the-job training for a specific trade or profession, usually under the supervision of an experienced worker.

4. Starting a Business: If you have a passion or an idea, creating your own startup requires hard work but can also be highly rewarding.

5. Joining the Work Force: Some people choose to start working straight after high school, gaining industry experience to later facilitate their career advancement.

6. Community Service: This could involve working for an NGO, joining a community service organization, or participating in programs like Americorps.

Remember to explore the pros and cons of each option and consider what aligns best with your goals and interests. Best of luck!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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Parents and carers can teach their children to use roads safely by planning safe routes to school, following traffic rules, and serving as role models for safe road usage.

high school travel programs

Pick the safest way to school and practise travelling the route with your child, talking about and showing them how to be a safe road user.

Plan and practise walking and riding routes with your child. Discuss what they will do before and after school, and when they need to be home.

Talk about what to do when they’re running late, feel unsafe travelling to or from school, miss the bus or train, lose their travel pass, or it’s wet weather.

Discuss how distractions such as talking on the phone, texting or using headphones can affect their safety when travelling.

If your child will be travelling by public transport, help them plan the route. Use the trip planner at transportnsw.info/trip

Help your child organise a school Opal card or bus pass if travelling by public transport. Call 131 500 or visit transportnsw.info/tickets-opal/ticket-eligibility-concessions/school-student-travel

Find our more about safe travel to school

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6 Student Travel Programs to Get You Out of the House 

Rebecca Murphy

Rebecca’s desire to experience the world began as a young child during her first viewing of...

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Sick and tired of hearing about college selections and internships? Are you totally over applying for the same summer jobs as everyone else? Do you feel like you’re going to scream if you hear the words “SAT prep” ever again? It’s cool, we know the feeling and have a solution!

If you’re looking to do something unique, exhilarating, and boundary-pushing, consider participating in a #clutch like traveling abroad? Trust us, your sanity, college applications, and Insta will all thank you. If Lizzie McGuire taught us anything, it’s that overseas travel is what dreams are made of!

[Watch this: High School Study Abroad is LIT ]

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Ready to switch out textbooks for guidebooks?

What are student travel programs?

Student travel programs are exactly like what they sound like...young students can sign up for a program to take them across all corners of the world! Most have some type of educational component, such as language immersion if it’s somewhere with a different language or a cultural class to engage students more, but the focus is on traveling and exploring. Because meaningful travel has become so popular, there are student travel programs for high school students that focus on one specific country and there are others that take students to multiple countries. Whatever your preference, there’s a program out there for you!

[ Get matched with student travel programs like...yesterday]

Who can do student travel programs.

Students, of course! Namely, YOU. Whether you’re currently in high school or looking to take a gap year in between high school and college , there are tons of options! Most student travel programs for high school students require that you are enrolled somewhere and have above a 2.5 GPA, but the requirements are pretty lax besides that. Depending on the specific provider and location, there may be language requirements or courses that need to be completed before departure, so check each program carefully!

[Save and compare your favorite student travel programs with MyGoAbroad ]

Can i find student travel programs in europe.

Yup, all over the world, in fact! From student travel programs in Europe (think Norway ) to programs all the way in southeast Asia (hello Thailand !), there are opportunities in areas as remote or as cosmopolitan as you can imagine! Whether you’re looking for a traditional travel program or something more unique, trust us when we say there are so many different options that you won’t know what to do with yourself!

[ Download your FREE Ebook for great Tips & Tales for First Time Teen Travelers ]

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Put. Down. The. College. Applications. (For now, at least.)

To help you narrow down your selection of awesome travel programs, we have selected our top seven picks:

Top student travel companies

When it comes to student travel programs for high school students, these are the best companies to check out. With engaging curriculum in the most interesting places around the world you can’t go wrong! 

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1. Travel for Teens

As you probably could have guessed from the name, Travel for Teens is one of the best choices for students looking to explore! With over 100 different programs in 40 countries across five continents, this provider is a total winner. With a motto of “travelers not tourists”, Travel for Teens is excellent at providing an immersive and meaningful experience rather than just a tour. Their program types include community service, outdoor recreation, language immersion, college prep, and even photography, so if you’re looking for a provider that offers unique trips, this should be at the top of your list!

Most popular program: Summer in Berlin, Paris, and London Next: Read TFT reviews | Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Germany , France , and England

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2. Academic Programs International

API is very well-known in the college study and intern abroad world, and they recently have launched an entire section of the company dedicated to just high school meaningful travel called “Aspire by API”. They offer summer programs in England, Spain, France, Ireland, and Italy, as well as summer community service programs in Ecuador, Argentina, and Costa Rica. Don’t stop here, as API is incredibly popular among gap year students, so if you’re thinking of doing more than just a few week travel program, check out their programs for gappers across nine countries in Europe and South America!

Most popular program: Art, Language, and Culture in Italy Next: Read API reviews | Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Italy

students sitting and laughing together on dock in Switzerland

Make new friends around the world and laugh and learn together with student travel programs in Europe.

the experiment in intl living

3. Experiment in International Living

Just like the name of the program suggests, The Experiment in International Living is an experiential international learning provider for high schoolers. The Experiment provides three to five week summer trips for students to become immersed in a new culture, pick up some foreign language skills, and explore a diverse region through hands-on experiences with the local community. The Experiment has been a high school study abroad leader for over 85 years, and each of their 32 programs in 26 countries around the world offers a specific theme for students to learn through. With so many options, there’s definitely one that will fit your needs!

Most popular program: Mongolia: Nomadic Culture & Outdoor Adventure Next: Read Experiment reviews | Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Mongolia

american farm school

4. American Farm School

Get ready to get down and dirty with some farm animals! (No, not really…) Since 1904, the American Farm School has focused on the agricultural needs of Greece and the Balkans, and in 1970 created the Greek Summer Program. High school students spend a summer living with a family in a rural Greek village, and learn about the importance of agriculture and social issues related to refugees through hands-on experiences. The highlight of the summer is the “Big Trip”, where students participate in an eco-adventure like hiking Mt. Olympus and sailing through island communities and spectacular bays. Sounds much better than studying for the SATs! 

Most popular program: Greek Summer Next: Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Greece

group of students walking in sunlight, aerial photo

Your path will be a lot clearer after participating in student travel programs for high school students.

cea logo

5. Campus Education Australia

Despite the name, Campus Education Australia is not just a program down under. For 20 years, CEA has provided educational programs and homestays for teenagers in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, Denmark, Switzerland, and of course, Australia. Their main goal is to promote cultural understanding and world peace, so students are exposed to all types of cultures, languages, and societies to develop critical thinking and social awareness skills, all while tying in awesome adventures like safaris in the Outback! 

Most popular program: Sydney Safari Adventure Next: Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Australia

gobeyond

6. GoBeyond Student Travel

Looking for something really meaningful in your summer trip? Head abroad with GoBeyond Student Travel! This student travel company focuses on traveling with a purpose, so all trip options offer “cross-cultural service adventures” where students volunteer in underdeveloped communities while having an exciting “vacation” abroad. Students can enjoy traveling and volunteering in places as kick-ass as Iceland, Peru, Thailand, India, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Australia, and the British Virgin Islands, with program options such as watersports adventure, wildlife stewardship, or hiking and walking tours. 

Most popular program: Ecuador and Galapagos - Islands, Andes, and Amazon Next: Visit their site Related: See all student travel programs in Ecuador

Next steps to signing up for student travel programs

Thinking really seriously about enrolling in a travel program? Time to do some narrowing down! While the above programs are some of our favorites, they are certainly not the only options, so use the below resources to help you pick the right one for your needs!

  • Use the MyGoAbroad tool to read program reviews and narrow down your list
  • Take advantage of our free OnlineAdvisor tool to get matched with your dream program
  • Browse scholarships and financial aid options to help finance your trip
  • Learn how to find incredible teen travel programs
  • Check out this cheat sheet for can’t-miss high school travel programs
  • Ready to get LIT? Watch our video on why you should study abroad in high school
  • Consider taking a gap year if you’re REALLY interested in getting away from your parents

Now all that’s really left to do is pack, right? 

woman in black and white striped shirt with bun and red backpack looking at ocean

You’ll learn to appreciate and—dare I say you might even miss—mom’s nagging after spending time abroad.

Au revoir mom and pop! 

Whether you’re traveling, studying, volunteering, or taking a gap year abroad, any type of international adventure in high school is important! You are never too young to take the plunge into overseas travel, and if there is an additional component that makes it more meaningful such as taking a class or helping an underprivileged community, then all the more reason to go. 

So, escape those nagging parents and pressure-cooker schools by taking your studies and experiences out into the real world. We all know you’ll learn more by spending a summer traveling through South America than you will by taking a minimum wage job at the Tastee Freeze!

Look for the Perfect High School Program Abroad Now

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Inclusion is 'the way to move forward' for Hillsborough after-school programs

When it comes to Hillsborough County’s after-school programs, the goal is to make every single kid feel welcome. FOX 13 photojournalist Barry Wong shows us how.

TAMPA, Fla. - When it comes to Hillsborough County’s after-school programs, the goal is to make every single kid feel welcome.

"Inclusion is the way to move forward," Assistant Recreation Program Supervisor Ty Mansueto said.

Inclusion means mixing traditional kids with adaptive kids, which are kids with mental, intellectual, or physical disabilities.

high school travel programs

"It’s very intentional. We try to adapt all of our activities to make sure that it's included for everyone," Mansueto said.

For the games and activities that don’t require any changes, staff members like to provide a little nudge to the adaptive kids.

"It could be as easy as encouraging them to participate, because a lot of times it's their first time doing that particular activity," Mansueto said. "Even if it's for one minute, five minutes, ten minutes, just encourage them to be a part of that."

high school travel programs

Staff members say it’s a learning experience for the traditional kids as well.

"I enjoy personally seeing the kids helping each other out and then just becoming as well-rounded as possible at this young of an age. It's an experience that not a lot of children get," Mansueto said.

Hillsborough County has 17 centers with after-school programs, and seven offer the adaptive program. Registration is required, and many sites still have some availability.

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Travel + leisure charitable foundation extends its scholarship program to benefit high school graduates in osceola county, orlando-based charitable foundation partners with school district of osceola county to offer qualifying residents an academic scholarship to any public florida state university, florida community college or technical school.

The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation, established by Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE:TNL), the world’s leading membership and leisure travel company, has partnered with the School District of Osceola County, Florida, to bring the Travel + Leisure Scholarship Program to qualifying Osceola County students beginning the 2024-2025 school year. Inspired by the work of philanthropist Harris Rosen and his advocacy for local diverse communities, this new scholarship provides an opportunity for Osceola County students to seek a college education without financial burden and mirrors the program the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation created in Eatonville, Florida, in 2021.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240828585866/en/

The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation, established by Travel + Leisure Co., has partnered with the School District of Osceola County, Florida, to bring the Travel + Leisure Scholarship Program to qualifying Osceola County students beginning the 2024-2025 school year. (Photo: Business Wire)

The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation, established by Travel + Leisure Co., has partnered with the School District of Osceola County, Florida, to bring the Travel + Leisure Scholarship Program to qualifying Osceola County students beginning the 2024-2025 school year. (Photo: Business Wire)

The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation Scholarship aims to promote educational opportunities for students in Osceola County with full-time residency in ZIP code 34758, identified by the School District of Osceola County as an area with potential to greatly benefit from this opportunity. To qualify for the scholarship, students must have attended 11th and 12th grades at Poinciana High School and completed 4th and/or 5th grade at Reedy Creek Elementary School. Eligible scholarship recipients must also be accepted to a Florida state public college or university, a Florida community college or a Florida technical school.

“The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation empowers students from low-income communities to reach their full potential by removing financial barriers to higher education through life-changing scholarship funds,” said Kimberly Marshall, chair of the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation. “With the inspirational work of Harris Rosen as our guide, as well as the learnings and experience from our Eatonville Scholarship Program, we have the blueprint to enact meaningful change by helping Osceola County students soar. We look forward to partnering with the School District of Osceola County to educate the community on this new offering and deliver on our promise to help students reach their personal and professional goals.”

Qualifying Osceola County students and their parents will be invited to apply for the scholarship program via a closed application process based on residential and school enrollment requirements. At the start of the 2024-2025 school year, eligible high school students will learn about this opportunity from their College & Career Counselor. The College & Career Counselor will collaborate with the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation to provide ongoing support and guide students throughout their high school career.

Applicants will receive scholarships in the amount of remaining tuition and/or the remaining cost of books and housing after a student has applied to all available grants and scholarships to ensure that students are not indebted by their educational endeavors. Students must also perform at least 25 community service hours to be eligible.

“We are grateful to the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation for bringing this scholarship program to Osceola County and for investing in our students and our community,” said Dr. Mark Shanoff, Superintendent, Osceola County School District. “Our mission is to inspire all learners to reach their highest potential as responsible, productive citizens, and this new program enhances our ability to deliver on that. With our district graduation rate at an all-time high, this new scholarship further incentivizes students within the Reedy Creek Elementary and Poinciana High School funnel to challenge themselves, set goals, and reach them.”

"Engaging our elementary students in conversations about higher education early can make an incredible impact on how students think about the future and their K-12 journey,” said Katie Adams, principal at Reedy Creek Elementary. “Through this scholarship program, we’re able to remove any financial barriers that may keep a student from dreaming big, giving them every chance to succeed.”

Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation embraces a diverse and inclusive community through a variety of programs, including leadership training, mentoring opportunities, and educational support.

About Travel + Leisure Co.

Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE:TNL) is the world’s leading membership and leisure travel company, providing more than six million vacations to travelers every year. The company operates a portfolio of vacation resort, travel club, and lifestyle travel brands designed to meet the needs of the modern leisure traveler, whether they’re traveling the world or staying a little closer to home. With hospitality and responsible tourism at its heart, the company’s 19,000+ dedicated associates around the globe help the company achieve its mission to put the world on vacation. Learn more at travelandleisureco.com .

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View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240828585866/en/

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  1. Travel For Teens High School Summer Travel Programs For Teens

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  3. 10 Best Travel Abroad Programs for High School Students i

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  4. GoBeyond • High School Community Service Summer Programs & Trips

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  5. Smithsonian announces new collection of travel programs for high school

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  6. 6 Popular Types of High School Travel Programs

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COMMENTS

  1. EF Student Travel Programs

    What's important to you is important to us. We believe travel is for everyone. When students go beyond the classroom it brings education to life, unlocks new potential, and opens a world of possibilities. That's why we prioritize safety, value, and the kind of learning that prepares students for the future and their futures. Safety ...

  2. Summer High School Abroad Programs for 2024

    Service learning programs: Volunteer programs abroad can range from $1,500 to $4,000 USD for 2-6 weeks. Costs often cover accommodation, meals, project materials, and on-site support. Cultural immersion and educational travel programs: Cultural exchange programs typically range from $3,000 to $8,000 USD for a 2-8 week program.

  3. 10 Best Travel Abroad Programs for High School Students i

    Here's a peek at our community's favorite travel abroad programs for high school students in 2024-2025: Arcos Journeys Abroad. Projects Abroad. Travel for Teens. GVI. Greenheart Travel. Academic Programs International. Performing Arts Abroad. Centro MundoLengua.

  4. High School Travel Programs

    High school is the perfect time to go overseas and expand your worldview. Whether you're still figuring out what's next or already have goals involving university and a professional career, a high school travel program can help you gain real-world perspective and experience that will bolster your confidence and inform your next steps.

  5. Best Summer Travel Programs for High School Students

    Cost: $6,790-$9,990, depending on program (not including airfare) Eligibility: Rising freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and college freshmen (must be at least 13 years old) Application Deadline: Rolling, but students are encouraged to apply early. With fourteen different programs to choose from, Smithsonian Student Travel offers high ...

  6. Teen Tours & Student Travel Programs

    2024 teen tours, pre-college programs, adventure travel, and volunteer programs for high school students around the world. ... 2024 teen tours, pre-college programs, adventure travel, and volunteer programs for high school students around the world. Trusted since 1982. Enroll today! Enroll Now and Save up to $500! Canadian residents pay in ...

  7. 6 Popular Types of High School Travel Programs

    Consider these types of high school travel programs. 1. Community service and volunteering. Get drawn into the international world of philanthropy. Community service programs for high school students abroad may have just fallen from the heavens themselves. Volunteer work coupled with international experience is the ultimate cherry on top of ...

  8. How to Find Incredible Teen Travel Programs

    Recommended language immersion programs for high school students: China High School Program, CIP; Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru High School Programs, Maximo Nivel; Quebec City French Summer School, Edu-inter [See all language immersion teen travel programs here] Work experience. Skip another summer working at the Peach Pit and embark on working ...

  9. High School Trips & Travel Programs ABROAD

    Alandis' short-stay high school trips are a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience designed to meet the specific needs and interests of your group of students. Our custom programs for high schools will take you across the cities and natural wonders of several European or Latin American countries.. These flexible programs are designed to offer a blend of cultural immersion, language learning ...

  10. High School Summer Travel Programs For Teens & Students

    Our high school summer travel programs for older teens are carefully crafted with students finishing 11th and 12th grade in mind. Older teens flourish with itineraries that offer more independence to encourage growth and even more confidence in traveling. Whether it's hitting up a larger variety of destinations in Asia, learning to use the ...

  11. High School Spring Break 2024 & 2025 Trips Abroad

    For example, a 1-week volunteering program could cost almost $2,000, but a 3-week program would only cost you $3,000. For most high schoolers, spring break only lasts a week, so expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 for a study abroad program, not including airfare and other fees. Tip: For the cheapest fares, book on Tuesdays and ...

  12. The Global Citizen Program

    The Global Citizen Program is a series of domestic and international student travel programs designed and curated for middle, high school and college students. Our programs help students develop their ability to make informed, meaningful decisions and encourages them to grow as future leaders and global citizens. Teen travel programs to Europe ...

  13. 14 New High School Study Abroad Programs for Summer 2025

    The new school year has just started, but are you already thinking about next summer? With 14 new programs spanning the globe, CIEE has an immersive high school summer abroad experience to help you get to where you want to go —whether you're a foodie, history buff, or budding activist!. Check out the new summer programs we're offering in 2025!

  14. Teens & High School Volunteer Abroad Programs

    Updated for 2024. Volunteering abroad and high school exchanges are an excellent way for teens and high school students under age 18 to learn about other cultures, build new interests, and of course—do some good. I first learned about volunteer travel programs for teens in college, when my friend's 15-year-old sister, Hailey, traveled to Costa Rica to study sea turtles.

  15. Gap year after high school: programs, top destinations and benefits

    Here are some top volunteer opportunities available at Worldpackers for those looking to make the most out of their gap year experience. 1. Teaching English Abroad. Becoming an English instructor overseas is a great way to get immersed in new societies and aid others enhance their language capabilities.

  16. Costa Rica Student Travel Programs (Cultural Immersion)

    Students learn important travel skills to prepare them for more independent travel opportunities in the future, such as study abroad programs after high school or during college or university. Our program model is designed to give middle and high school students a positive first experience in traveling independent from their families in a ...

  17. 30 Most Prestigious Summer Programs for High Schoolers in 2024

    Cost: Tuition: $5,350. Room and board: $3,120 - $3,426. RISE is a six-week summer program at Boston University (BU) for the nation's best and brightest scientifically minded high school juniors. Participants in the RISE program are afforded two tracks: internship and practicum.

  18. student life

    Good day sir,am planning on traveling to study medicine in Tomsk. I also need a student job that could assist me in my monthly living expenses and payment of my student loan.I have taught in basic school for over 2 years and can speak English...

  19. UHD Offers Life-Changing Summer Programs for High School Students

    That's why during Summer 2024, UHD is investing in the future of high schoolers through educational programs aimed at changing the trajectories of their lives: The UHD "Get Ready Gators" Summer Bridge Program 2024, the Texas Talent Connection Project, Houston PREP and the National Summer Transportation Institute Program 2024.

  20. 10 High School Summer Travel Programs That Guarantee Growth

    9. High School Volunteer and Adventure Experience in Nepal with GVI — 10. It's more fun to travel when you can completely immerse yourself in the culture. That's why GVI's high school summer travel programs place students in the homes of locals. This program in Nepal puts you in a traditional Nepali village, where you'll have the ...

  21. Tomsk Forum, Travel Discussion for Tomsk, Russia

    Travel forums for Tomsk. Discuss Tomsk travel with Tripadvisor travelers

  22. The 61+ best student discounts in 2024

    Samsung: Up to 30% off your purchase through the Education Offers Program using an eligible school email Verizon : Get mobile plans starting at just $12 a month, and Fios Home Internet starting at $15

  23. Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation Extends Its Scholarship Program

    The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation, established by Travel + Leisure Co., has partnered with the School District of Osceola County, Florida, to bring the Travel + Leisure Scholarship ...

  24. Alternatives to college and military after high school?

    Hey there, glad to see you're exploring all your options for after high school. Some alternatives to college and the military can include: 1. Pursuing a Trade: Trade or vocational schools offer specialized training in areas like electric work, plumbing, culinary arts, and more. These careers often pay well and have high demand. 2. Gap Year Programs: If you need some time to figure things out ...

  25. Getting to and from school safely

    Plan and practise walking and riding routes with your child. Discuss what they will do before and after school, and when they need to be home. Talk about what to do when they're running late, feel unsafe travelling to or from school, miss the bus or train, lose their travel pass, or it's wet weather.

  26. Jobs in Tomsk, Russia

    Travel Tools. Learn about working in Tomsk, Russia! Read reviews, guides, and articles. Use our comparison tool and get matched with job opportunities.

  27. 6 Best Student Travel Programs

    With engaging curriculum in the most interesting places around the world you can't go wrong! 1. Travel for Teens. As you probably could have guessed from the name, Travel for Teens is one of the best choices for students looking to explore! With over 100 different programs in 40 countries across five continents, this provider is a total winner.

  28. THE 10 BEST Restaurants Near Tomsk State University

    Restaurants near Tomsk State University, Tomsk on Tripadvisor: Find traveler reviews and candid photos of dining near Tomsk State University in Tomsk, Russia.

  29. Inclusion is 'the way to move forward' for Hillsborough after-school

    TAMPA, Fla. - When it comes to Hillsborough County's after-school programs, the goal is to make every single kid feel welcome. "Inclusion is the way to move forward," Assistant Recreation Program Supervisor Ty Mansueto said. Inclusion means mixing traditional kids with adaptive kids, which are kids with mental, intellectual, or physical disabilities.

  30. Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation Extends Its Scholarship Program

    At the start of the 2024-2025 school year, eligible high school students will learn about this opportunity from their College & Career Counselor. The College & Career Counselor will collaborate with the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation to provide ongoing support and guide students throughout their high school career.