Make this your year.

EF Gap Year programs help you learn about yourself, the world, and yourself in the world.
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Transformative Gap Year, Semester, and Short-Term programs

In the face of big life decisions ahead, the most precious resource we have is time: time to grow, explore, and figure out what we’re really working towards before taking on our futures.

EF Gap Year programs are designed to put you in the driver's seat as you expand your horizons, discover your interests, and gain new confidence, all while making lifelong friendships along the way.

Short-Term programs
4-6 weeks

Live abroad through a balance of structured programming and independent exploration. Gain language skills, grow personally, and, of course, travel as much as you can.
Departing: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer

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Semester programs
10-11 weeks

Spend your gap semester living in different parts of the world, experiencing multiple destinations in-depth. Combine language study, service-learning, and/or an internship.
Departing: Fall, Spring

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Gap Year
25 Weeks

The ultimate global, customizable gap year. You'll experience three destinations in depth through language immersion, service learning, and an internship abroad.
Departing: Fall 2023

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Hear from our alumni

"My gap year took me out of my comfort zone so many times—and my life is better because of it."
Annabel H., EF Gap Year 19'

"My gap semester made me a more confident person."
David A., EF Gap Semester Fall 19'

"I am immensely grateful for the travel, service, and educational opportunities that EF has provided for me."
Hannah S., EF Gap Semester Spring 19'

The world leader in international education

When you travel with EF Education First, you travel with a global organization that has been in operation since 1965. EF’s mission has always been to open the world through education, and we’ve delivered on that promise for millions of students.

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“I don’t want to look back one day and think, 'That could’ve been me.'” –Avery C.

Complete this 2-minute quiz to learn why EF Gap Year programs are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pause, get inspired, and prepare for your future. College will always be there, this moment will not.

For U.S. students 18–22.

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