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City Immersion Semester

Four gap semester students pose in Paris
Spend a semester at an EF Language Campus abroad

Spend 12 unforgettable weeks living and learning at one of EF’s global language campuses. Choose from iconic destinations like Barcelona, Paris, or Rome—or any of our 11 campuses worldwide. Each program combines immersive language learning with curated cultural experiences designed to help you connect deeply with your chosen city.

Upcoming travel dates:

Semester Option (12 Weeks):

  • Spring 2026:
    Session 1: Jan. 4–Mar. 28, 2026
    Session 2: Feb. 1.–Apr. 25, 2026

  • Fall 2026:
    Session 1: Aug. 16–Nov. 7, 2026
    Session 2: Sep. 13–Dec. 5, 2026

Extended Semester Option (22 Weeks):

  • Spring 2026:
    Session 1: Jan. 4–Jun. 6, 2026

  • Fall 2026:
    Session 1: Sep. 13–Feb. 13, 2027

Don't see what you're looking for? Ask us about flexible departures and durations.

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How you'll grow

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Gain independence living abroad

How you'll grow

CULTURAL IMMERSION

Deeply learn the customs of one city and country

How you'll grow

LANGUAGE LEARNING

Level up your language skills in the country that most interests you

How you'll grow

COHORT BONDING

Travel with a cohort of future lifelong friends

Choose from eleven global hubs

Choose your home city for the duration of your gap semester. Each of EF's Language Campuses are a lively home base where you’ll take daily language classes and immerse yourself in local culture. Beyond the classroom, they serve as social hubs for making friends, joining activities, and experiencing the city together.

Waterfall in Costa Rica

Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

You’ll learn Spanish in a former resort just steps from beaches & tropical forest. Outside lessons there’s surfing, wildlife, sunsets & local community life in a small coastal town where “pura vida” really means relaxing in nature & ocean.

Barcelona, Spain

Learn Spanish in the heart of Eixample, surrounded by modernist architecture, tapas bars, cafes & markets. After class, walk to beaches, explore the Gothic Quarter, or enjoy street art and ride metro to Montjuïc views.

Malaga, Spain

You’ll learn Spanish in Pedregalejo, a coastal neighbourhood with villa-style feel. After class hit the beach, try Andalusian food, wander old town streets, enjoy sunsets & seaside walks.

Rome, Italy

You’ll study Italian in the Centro Storico, walking distance to the Colosseum and other ruins. Explore ancient squares and fountains, try gelato in piazzas, enjoy local trattorias and famous art museums.

Eiffel Tower in Paris

Paris, France

Study French in the 9th arrondissement near avenues, theatres and classic Parisian rooftops. Between classes, visit the Louvre, walk along the Seine, discover hidden passages, try patisseries and soak up museum culture.

Nice, France

Learn French in Nice near the Promenade des Anglais, cafés and beach. Outside class you can stroll beaches, visit local markets, discover seaside views and nearby hills.

City shot of Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany

Learn German in the centre, near Potsdamer Platz. Outside class you can explore cafes, theatres, dynamic street art, historic sites and use public transit to reach museums and vibrant neighbourhoods.

Munich, Germany

Study German in Lehel, walkable to the Englischer Garten and Munich’s historic heart. Outside class take in the beer gardens, architectural landmarks, museums, and nearby alpine trips.

Tokyo, Japan city shot

Tokyo, Japan

Learn Japanese in Shibuya, a buzzing area full of bright lights, shops, arcades & street food. Explore the neon streets, pop culture hotspots, tranquil temples, and try sushi, ramen or discover indie music & fashion scenes.

Seoul, South Korea

Study Korean in Seoul in areas that mix old and new. Explore ancient palaces, busy markets, street food alleys, high-tech neighborhoods like Gangnam, artsy districts like Hongdae, and experience K-pop dance & cultural events.

Singapore

You’ll study Mandarin or English in the heart of a safe, modern city. Outside class explore hawker centres, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa beaches, night markets and cultural districts like Little India and Chinatown.

Start planning today
Program inclusions

Our gap programs are built around a close-knit cohort, giving students the chance to learn and travel together. The program includes a wide range of amenities including:

  • Interactive language classes
    Language classes offered at all levels.

  • Activities & excursions
    Free activities facilitated at our EF Language Campuses.

  • Flights & transportation
    Internal flights and transfers between locations, including airport pick-up.

  • Room & board
    Accommodations in an EF Student residence or homestay.

  • EF Global Support Network
    One-on-one mentorship and 24/7 travel support before and during your program.

  • Travel protection
    Enrollment and cancellation protection fees included.

EF Education First global presence
Our commitment to safety

When you need us most, we’re always close: EF Gap Year students are supported by multiple layers of staff throughout their experience abroad.

Optional college credits

You will have an option to receive college credits for your language coursework through an accredited US university. For more information, please talk with your Program Advisor.

Stack and save

The world is too big for just one stop. Extend your adventure by stacking two back-to-back programs into a full year abroad. You’ll unlock more destinations, more experiences, and more memories—plus, save $2,000 when you do.

Top Curve

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