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EF Gap Year Reviews

Kudos and testimonials from around the gap year community

EF Gap Year student with suitcase
EF Gap Year alumni poses in front of colorful wall
Sara S.
EF Gap Semester Fall '19 / Marketing and Design Professional

“I’m so thankful for the base EF gave me and everything that was designed for us to succeed. Every experience on the trip was useful and informative, it was also so much fun to truly have a break and be able to explore. I can’t speak more highly of EF! I was the only kid in my high school class who didn’t go to college immediately and I consider it to be the best decision I’ve ever made. My high school counselors are now recommending gap years to confused students who aren’t 100% sure the direction they want to take in life. I talk about EF 24/7 to anyone who will listen and recommend a gap year through EF to all my younger friends and family!”

EF Gap Year students measure sea turtle
Diego O.
EF Gap Year '20 / Parsons School of Design '24

“My gap program affected me in so many different ways. I saw such an improvement in my Spanish. I gained a sense of independence. Service affected me deeply on the inside. It translated into my future career path—now, I want to look at my future as much more purpose-based, philanthropy-based and meaningful. During my internship, I totally blossomed. Working in the business-style environment made me excited for my future career in the business world as well.”


Sharing the Positivity

Hear what past EF Gap Year travelers and their families have to say about their experiences with us.

Sara S., EF Gap Semester alum

I’m so thankful for the base EF gave me and everything that was designed for us to succeed. Every experience on the trip was useful and informative, it was also so much fun to truly have a break and be able to explore. I can’t speak more highly of EF! I went in to visit my old high school and two students (juniors) I barely knew approached me and told me that because of how awesome my adventure looked they are considering taking gap years! So exciting considering I was the only kid in my high school class who didn’t go to college immediately and I consider it to be the best decision I’ve ever made! I later sat down with both sets of parents and told them about my EF program experience and how valuable the whole trip was! My high school counselors are now recommending gap years to confused students who aren’t 100% sure the direction they want to take in life. I talk about EF 24/7 to anyone who will listen and recommend a gap year through EF to all my younger friends and family!

Bart, EF Gap Year alum

I absolutely loved my experience abroad with EF! The experience opened my eyes & mind to different cultures and languages. I realized after my travels that it is extremely difficult to put a price tag on experiences. EF was there for me from the beginning until the end, and they acted in the best interest of making it a good experience. At the same time, it’s important to keep in mind that your experience will be as good as YOU make it. EF is there for you all the way but simultaneously you also need to be open-minded for something new, and “get out your comfort zone!”

I really enjoyed the internship portion of my travels, working alongside extremely hard-working, life-changing, and passionate people. I would highly recommend doing an internship with EF because it’s the perfect stepping stone to jumpstart your education & professional development.

Erika M., EF parent

Thank you so much for all you’ve done for Tommy! It’s been a life-changing experience for him. I can already see that. As Tommy has said, “This is the best decision he has ever made!” I’m sure you all get many compliments about this program, but I just needed to share my joy. Tommy is happier and at peace more than I have ever seen him. I am so grateful that we found you and he is only halfway!! Please share my deepest thank you to your staff!

Elizabeth C., EF Gap Semester alum

I wanted to say thank you for all your help and for allowing me to take part in this unforgettable journey I’ve had a remarkable experience thank you for everything you and EF have done it’s immensely appreciated!

Ava C., EF Gap Year alum

Just wanted to thank you so so so so much for making this year possible for all of us, and always being there whenever we needed someone! I’ve never been so happy in my life, and I just want you to know how much I appreciated your help this whole time, you’re the best ever!!!!!



Student stories

Read about past travelers' experiences abroad.

EF Gap student in infinity pool
Why EF’s Gap Semester Was The Best Decision I Ever Made
Written by

Sophie Tangel

After my first year of college, I couldn’t imagine going through the same experience for the next three years in a row. I was already sick of the same...

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EF Gap Year blog
Lessons from the Road Less Traveled
Written by

Hannah S.

Hannah embarked on a gap semester unsure of what to major in college: over 3 months, she found a passion for exploring & marine life. Read her story.

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EF Gap Year alumni smiles with telescope
A Study in Smiles
Written by

Samantha D.

A Study in Smiles is a project photographed 30 strangers on the streets of three different continents throughout my gap year adventures.

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