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

Tired of the same ol’ same ol? Have we got some ideas for YOU.

Looking for travel abroad programs for high school students that rarely disappoint? You're at the brink of adulthood and even during breaks from school, commitments are starting to pile up—summer school, part-time jobs, Netflix binges, to name a few—but don't let that stop you from having the experience of a lifetime before the responsibilities (and college applications) pile on too thick.

Even the busiest of teens can spare the time for 1-2 week high school programs abroad, so whip out those calendars (aka smartphones) and carve out a small space for the biggest adventure you've ever had.

We know the length might not sound like much, but most providers of high school programs abroad for 1-2 weeks are expert curators, so you'll make the strongest of bonds with fellow travelers, locals, and your host country in no time. 

There's a lot to think about when choosing a provider for your short-term high school abroad program. Do you want to learn a new language with the quickness? Get a feeling for teaching English abroad? Volunteer in a remote location? Go full immersion? Want it all, but with plenty of time for adventures to boot?

We hear ya. Time is of the essence, so while you were busy doing you, we compiled this list of awesome 1-2 week high school abroad programs this year. Keep reading to find your perfect match! 

Here’s a peek at our community’s favorite travel abroad programs for high school students in 2024-2025:

The best providers for short-term high school programs abroad this year

Editor’s note: This information was accurate at the time of publishing. Please refer to each individual program for current data.

1. Arcos Journeys Abroad—Be the first to review!

• Where? Spain, Costa Rica, Mexico
• When? Summer; 2-4 weeks
• Why? Arcos Journeys Abroad is tailored to adventurous high schoolers looking for the experience of a lifetime with the perk of affordability. Arcos employs only the best, brightest, and most fun teachers, advisors, and mentors to guarantee you a good time. This 2-4 week high school abroad program will match you with a highly vetted homestay in close proximity to other students, for a social life with support. Classes are intensive, so you’ll start speaking the local language fast (which will come in handy when you’re taking a break from your summer high school abroad program to travel ((inception style)). 
• More info on Arcos Journeys Abroad! 

2. Projects Abroad—9.41

“Projects Abroad is a great organization that helps you to volunteer abroad. It is truly a unique experience to travel abroad and help a foreign community in some way! While I was working with Projects Abroad I was in Argentina volunteering for Human Rights. It’s been a great time working with those who often times lack a voice in modern society, predominantly juvenile criminals and the homeless in my case, and seeing the meaningful impact you can have on a foreign community. Through my volunteer work I believe I made a meaningful impact on and contribution to the communities I visited, which is something rare for many travelers.” —Read more Projects Abroad reviews here.

• Where? Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America & the Caribbean, South Pacific
• When? Summer; 2 weeks
• Why? Projects Abroad is an organization that cares about doing good, and doing it right. Their mission is to help you realize your potential to change the world, and each program maintains an unwavering commitment to “safety, hassle-free travel, and making a real impact.” The organization provides high school abroad programs for 2 weeks in a ton of fascinating fields, including archeology, medicine, childcare, conservation, human rights, and more! Participating in short-term volunteer abroad programs for teens is a surefire way to give back while gaining more than you could ever imagine. 
• More info on Projects Abroad! 

3. Travel for Teens—9.8

“My trip with Travel For Teens was filled with adventure, opportunities for growth, excitement, and laughter. The staff at TFT is dedicated to making each traveler’s experience the best that it can be. Last summer, I visited Paris, Italy, and Switzerland with travel for teens. The trip I traveled with was small, only about 14 students, which is an average size group for TFT. Each traveler experienced each city in the way that was most beneficial for them. You were allowed to go off on her own with your friends and eat at local restaurants and shop at thrift stores, as well as having the opportunity to explore the Louvre, go paragliding in the Swiss Alps, and so much more. I will always be a fan of TFT, and plan on staying involved in the company for as long as I am able to.”—Read more Travel for Teens reviews here.

• Where? Australia, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Europe, 
• When? Summer; 11-30 days
• Why? With a motto like “Travelers not Tourists,” we know that Travel for Teens just gets it. This program provider is prepared to pull you out of your comfort zone and help you live like a local while you’re far away from home. Focuses for 1-2 week high school programs abroad include community service, cultural exploration, language immersion, photography, or combo packages. Small group sizes mean your adventure buddies are quick to become new best friends!
• More info on Travel for Teens!

4. GVI—9.6

“My summer with GVI was without doubt the most memorable period of time in my life. Before coming on to the program in Jalova I knew I was in for an experience, just by reading about the projects. What I was not prepared for was how attached and involved I would feel, both to the place and above all the passionate and enthusiastic people. It truly felt like we were a part of something bigger and I have learned so much.”—Read more GVI reviews here.

• Where? Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America
• When? Year-round; 1-24 weeks
• Why? GVI is all about sustainability and global citizenship, and they’ve got plenty of awards and recognition to prove it. The company abides by Ten Ethical Principles that keep their programs effective, responsible, and in line with the local community. Earn your badge for a brave journey off the beaten path in countries like Ghana, Cambodia, Seychelles, Greece, Nepal, and more! These 1-2 week high school programs abroad are dedicated to teaching you new skills while you partake in one of the most significant experiences of your life. 
• More info on GVI!

5. Greenheart Travel—9.52

“Greenheart made the process easy and supported me the entire time! I loved getting to meet the partner program staff in Granada. The thing that I liked the best though was connecting with my host family and seeing the city with them. Talk to your host family a few times before going and don't be too nervous - it's amazing!”—Read more Greenheart Travel reviews here.

• Where? Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Puerto Rico, Spain, Sri Lanka, Thailand
• When? Year-round; 1-12 weeks
• Why? The team at Greenheart are no amateurs. Travel is their way of life, and when you participate in one of their programs, you’ll be sure to follow suit. Animal lovers, look no further! Greenheart’s 2-week volunteer abroad programs for teens include elephant conservation in Sri Lanka, stray dog rescue and prevention in Thailand, and animal rescue center support in Costa Rica. This program provider also offers 1-week language abroad programs for teens with lots of diverse destination options. 
• Check out Greenheart's teen summer language camp in Japan!

6. Academic Programs International—9.36

“The API staff was with me all along the way. From after I submitted my first application to getting re-acclimated to the States when I returned home, I always had a contact within the program that I could ask questions and get answers from. The best part with API was all of our Cultural Excursions. We had four excursions to different prominent cities in Scotland that gave us a good look at the different cultures within Scotland from the Scottish Highlands to the largest city, Glasgow. We also had culture events throughout the semester that gave us many authentic Scottish experiences. We went to things like a rugby game, we had afternoon tea, and went on a scotch whiskey tour. These events happened almost every week and showed me new things that I wouldn't have thought to see or do without the group.”—Read more Academic Programs International reviews here.

• Where? Bhutan, England, Ireland, Spain, Costa Rica
• When? Summer; 1-4 weeks
• Why? Whatever your interest or reason is for doing high school programs abroad for 1-2 weeks, API’s got you. This provider takes special care in making sure your program and host city are a perfect match—so whether you’re studying art in Paris, racking up college credits in London, doing community service in Thimphu, or studying STEM in Dublin, you’ll know you’re in the right place. API’s program costs are all-inclusive, so you won’t need to give a second thought to housing, insurance, or entrance and excursion fees.  
• More info on Academic Programs International!

7. Performing Arts Abroad—9.11

“I was in San Jose Costa Rica for a week for music volunteering and it was a beautiful experience. The laid back atmosphere of the city was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of my everyday life back home. My homestay was beautiful and my host family was beyond kind and generous! I took Spanish classes in the morning, and taught voice lessons in the afternoon. As a music student, opportunities to share my talents abroad is so appreciated!” —Read more Performing Arts Abroad reviews here.

• Where? Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, South Pacific
• When? Spring-Summer, 1-6 weeks
• Why? Calling all dancers, musicians, actors, and filmmakers! Meet your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to combine your passions for art, community service, and travel with the fleeting freedom of youth. This program provider knows that cultural immersion is what separates a tourist from a traveler, and that cross-cultural collaboration is the mother of creativity and understanding. Even if you only have a week to spare, you can participate in radical PAA programs like Circus Arts in Costa Rica, Music for Social Change in Kenya, Dance Therapy in Ecuador, and more! 
• More info on Performing Arts Abroad!

8. Centro MundoLengua—9.34

“I absolutely loved everything about the Centro Mundo Lengua program. I would do it again in a heartbeat! I got to know so much about Spain's culture, tradition, and history. The immersion was so amazing, I learned new vocabulary and grammar every day. Every person I met was helpful and encouraging in providing me with tools I needed to succeed. The activities were fun and engaging. I miss it so much!” —Read more Centro MundoLengua reviews here.

• Where? Spain
• When? Summer; 2-3 weeks
• Why? If you are a high school student interested in studying abroad in Spain, Centro MundoLengua is one of your best options. Centro MundoLengua has been around since 2005, with a focus on safety and small, off-the-beaten-path, authentic experiences in Spain. Their most popular programs include Spanish immersion programs, community service, as well as exam preparation programs (including pre-AP Spanish language courses, pre-AP Spanish literature courses, and IB Spanish preparation programs). Students spend 2 to 3 weeks living with a host family, attending language classes, exploring the vibrant Spanish culture, discovering stunning monuments, indulging in local cuisine, and traveling in Spain. Scholarships are available!  
• More info on Centro MundoLengua!

9. Spoleto Study Abroad—9.75

"Spoleto Study Abroad was absolutely amazing. Not only did I learn a tremendous amount about my artistic medium and an unfamiliar culture, but I was introduced to lifelong friends and even a new version of myself. This trip allowed for a degree of independence, exploration and creativity I had never before encountered and will strive to experience again." —Read more Spoleto Study Abroad reviews here.

• Where? Italy
• When? Summer; 2-3 weeks
• Why? Spoleto Study Abroad doesn't just offer a study abroad program—they offer an experience you will remember for years to come. If you'd like to travel to Italy and live like a local (not just visit like a tourist), then head to Spoleto this summer! This immersive arts and humanities program is designed to elevate the human spirit as students explore Spoleto and study a discipline in the arts. The lifelong friendships built and experiences shared throughout your stay will make it hard to leave as the same person you came. Spoleto Study Abroad is a family-owned business operated with passion by the Mutis, who love to share the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Italy with you. 
• More info on Spoleto Study Abroad!

10. Worldwide Friends Iceland—10.0

“To travel around Iceland is like a dream and I can tell you that I did not want to wake up after the camp. The amazing nature with rivers, mountains, glaciers, hot springs, and black beaches is incredible. Summer Camp Iceland organized the camp in a great way with all the information and cultural experience that they gave to us. Me and my brother are for sure coming back for this program again in the future.”—Read more Worldwide Friends Iceland reviews here.

• Where? Iceland
• When? Summer; 11 days
• Why? Worldwide Friends Iceland is a proud non-profit that promotes nature, peace, and friendship—and we literally can’t think of a single reason you shouldn’t join them. Iceland is the magical land of glaciers and volcanoes, geysers and lagoons, the Northern Lights and and the midnight sun. Their travel abroad programs for high school students specialize in using photography as your lense as you go horseback riding, whale watching, hiking, and kayaking through what the organization calls the “Land of Dreams.” 
• More info on Worldwide Friends Iceland!

Suddenly finding that you have more time to travel than you initially budgeted?

[Browse ALL High School Programs Abroad]

You’re ready to find high school programs abroad for 1-2 weeks!

Whether spring, fall, or high school study abroad summer programs, you’re bound to have a killer time.

See? You'll be ready to choose a provider for your dream short-term high school programs abroad in no time! Now that you've narrowed down your options, let's talk next steps. Check out the GoAbroad pages of providers you're interested in to learn more about what program options are available, read reviews, and get contact information. While you're doing comparisons, keep in mind your budget and what is and isn't included in each program's costs. Important things to factor in are accommodation, meals, excursion costs, and insurance. Your parents will want to know this stuff before you commit!

While we can't overestimate the importance of your high school education, we know those four long years can drag. As a lifelong wanderluster in the making, learning to take a break from the status quo whenever you get the chance is key. Whether you spend time on travel abroad programs for high school students learning, teaching, volunteering, or adventuring—if not all of the above—you best believe it will be the absolute time of your life.

Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare 1-2 Week High School Programs Abroad

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