Structured Gap Year Programs Abroad

What is a gap year program?

A gap year is a planned break from school where you travel, volunteer, or work to gain real-world experience. It usually happens after high school or before starting college.

What is a structured gap year program?

Structured gap year programs offer a safe, organized way to travel and learn. You’ll have 24/7 in-country support, accommodation, and a guided schedule. It’s a smart way to make your gap year meaningful, without the stress of planning everything yourself.

Who are these programs for?

Gap year programs are for high school graduates, college students, or anyone looking for a break to explore the world, build skills, and grow personally before their next step.

Save $650 when you book any Gap Adventure to Peru (6 Weeks), Vietnam (4 Weeks), Cambodia & Thailand (6 weeks) or Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand (10 weeks) starting in September 2025. Book by July 31, 2025. Mention to your Project Expert at the time of booking. Not valid with any other offer.

Why should I take a gap year abroad?

Taking a gap year allows you to expand your world view and perspective, immerse yourself in new cultures, and witness breathtaking scenery.

Our gap year abroad programs also offer you the chance to grow personally and professionally while creating positive change in the communities you visit.

These programs allow you to:

work alongside like-minded volunteers from around the globe, making lifelong connections.
broaden your horizons while ticking countries off your bucket list
become part of positive change in the world in underserved communities
gain unique global experience and demonstrate your work ethic and your resume
create memories and stories that last a lifetime

You can take the unique experience you gain from your gap year abroad and apply it to your studies and future career. It will go a long way in helping you stand out from the crowd in applications and interviews!

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Why travel with Projects Abroad?

We’ve been matching people to their dream responsible travel opportunities since 1992.

We’re no strangers to the transformational power of travel and believe that the best experiences are those that are authentic.

All our gap year projects are crafted with authenticity in mind, along with our market-leading approach to safety and security. We don’t just send you on your way — we stay with you throughout your journey without getting in the way.

You’ll meet and learn from local experts, immerse in new cultures, try exciting new things, and still see the usual tourist sights. You won’t just see the world, you’ll feel it too.

The best part? We handle all the planning so you don’t have to. Your accommodation, food, activities, in-destination transport, and more are all included as part of the initial cost.

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Cameron S - Global Gap Year, 2024

"Excellent for developing soft skills and social skills, especially because everyone is from different countries, backgrounds and cultures.

You’ll make lifelong friends: everyone else is from all over the world, and a massive part of it is the people you meet along the way."

Still got questions? We're happy to help!

Most of our staff have had gap years abroad themselves, so they’re ready to answer your questions, big or small.

FAQs

How long are gap year programs?

Our gap year programs range from 4 to 28 weeks and are customizable to fit your schedule.

Looking for a shorter, flexible gap year? Flexi Trips may be for you. Pick your own start and end dates, and volunteer abroad from as little as one week to one year.

Is taking a gap year worth it?

A gap year is an adventure that will change your life. You’ll see incredible destinations and have the chance to discover who you really are.

Highlights of our gap projects include:

traversing coasts, mountains, deserts, and rainforests in a single trip
building real relationships with people and communities around the world, contributing toward their goals
fully immersing in new cultures through homestays, language lessons, cultural workshops, and more
exhilarating activities like white water rafting, dune buggying, sand boarding, hikes… the list goes on

Our gap year volunteer opportunities are packed full of eye-opening experiences. You will immerse in new cultures, build your confidence, expand your global understanding, and develop real skills.

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Why should I volunteer during my gap year?

Volunteering abroad on your gap year is a powerful way to grow, learn, and make a real difference. You can explore career options, gain hands-on experience, and work alongside local professionals in fields like medicine, law, education, and more.

It’s also an unmatched chance to see the world, experience new cultures, and understand global issues firsthand. Our Gap Programs lean heavily into cultural workshops, giving you exposure to local crafts, martial arts, and the daily life of global communities.

You’ll be part of meaningful, ethical projects that support local groups and contribute toward their goals. Along the way, you’ll discover your strengths, build confidence, and return home with a clearer sense of purpose and unforgettable memories.

We want you to get the most out of your gap year. So, contact our Project experts to find the perfect gap year travel programs for you, depending on your goals.

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Is it harder to get accepted into college after taking a gap year?

Colleges do not look down on gap years, as long as the time is used purposefully and framed well in your application. A gap year can actually strengthen your college application if you:

engage in meaningful experiences like volunteering, internships, or service-learning programs (such as Projects Abroad)
reflect on how the experience helped you grow personally, academically, or professionally
explain clearly why you took a gap year, what you learned, and how it connects to your future college goals
demonstrate that you maintained your academic momentum and are ready to return to study

Gap years are not a foreign concept to U.S. colleges, what matters most is how you talk about the experience. Saying “I took time to clarify my goals” or “gain real-world / global experience” is far more effective than “I took time off.”

Our gap year programs provide structured, impactful experiences. We also help students reflect on their time, giving them the language and confidence to present their gap year powerfully in college applications, essays, and interviews.

What's included?

The cost of your trip covers:

Picked up from the airport, and taken back again when it's time to go home.
All internal travel such as coach, ferries, and flights.
Three meals a day.
Accommodation.
24/7 support in destination(s).
Regular social events, excursions, and workshop activities.
Visa support and advice.
Full induction and orientation by experienced staff upon arrival.

Everything except your flights, visa(s), insurance, and spending money. For a full list, read What's included in the price?

Can I do more than one Gap Program?

Yes you can!

Our Gap Programs are designed to work together, so you can do more than one. Combine trips to customise your gap year or join a Global Gap Year experience.

Contact a Project Expert today to discuss your options.