Immerse yourself in multicultural perspectives, discover new interests, and get hands-on learning when you study abroad in any one of these countries in high school. You’ll also pick up skills in independence and creative problem solving—#adulting.
Better yet, you could also gain fluency in another language, which will open many doors for your future. Plus, your experience abroad will sprinkle some extra magic on your college application!
Ready to study abroad in high school? Discover the best destination for you!
Here you’ll find the best places to study abroad in high school based on the variety of program choices available, safety, program providers, quality educational experiences, and past participant (and parent) reviews.
From a couple of weeks to a full year, you’ll have lots of choices on the length of time to accommodate your curriculum. Whether you’re looking to taste the best gelato or “fly” across cloud forests, there’s a perfect program out there for you!
How to choose where to study abroad in high school
Don’t worry, you won’t have to resort to throwing a dart on a map and going where it lands to decide where to study abroad in high school! You’ll be much happier with your decision by following these three steps:
1. Hone in your goals
First, decide what you’d like to achieve by studying abroad in high school. Are you looking to learn a new language, dip your toes in a field that interests you, volunteer to make a difference, experience an exchange program, or go on an adventure? Once you’ve decided what your goals are, you’ll have a much easier time choosing the best country for you.
2. Talk with your parents or guardians
Discuss options with your parents. You want them on the same page as you.
In most cases, adults are the gatekeepers for your trip, so you’ll want to make sure they’re on board with your plans. Chat with them about which countries interest you and why you want to study abroad in high school. They can help whittle down your list to the best country that suits your goals, interests, course requirements, safety, and overall budget.
3. Decide on the timing
Lastly, you’ll need to decide on the best time to study abroad in high school—maybe it’s during a short holiday break, the summer, a semester, or a full year. If you’re looking to earn credits, it’s a good idea to check with your school’s guidance counselor. Also, many programs require applications well in advance, so make sure you’ve secured a spot ASAP.
If you need some extra funding to cover program costs, be sure to employ FundMyTravel.com and check out our scholarship directory.
15 best places to study abroad in high school
1. England
Get lost in a British castle while studying abroad in England.
- Why? Harry Potter took place in England—need we say more? Brimming with ancient castles, impressive palaces, and iconic landmarks, you’ll have plenty of places to explore during your time there. Plus, Old Blighty features world-renowned educational institutions in Exeter, London, Oxford, and Cambridge, making it the best place to study abroad in high school. You can even take pre-college classes in subjects that interest you from medicine and engineering to arts and languages.
- Recommended program: Reach Cambridge International Summer Courses
2. Germany
- Why? Did you know that those who can speak German as a second language have the highest earning potential in the United States? Germany tops the economic ranks thanks to its highly advanced engineering in a variety of industries, so being able to speak their language boosts communication and collaboration. With a high school program abroad here, you can live with a host family, explore fairytale castles, and get a great education to boot!
- Recommended program: CIEE High School Summer: Berlin / Entrepreneurship
3. South Korea
- Why? As a technology powerhouse with ever-evolving innovations in engineering, it’s no wonder that students get a first-rate education in South Korea. Learning the language along the way will also be an added bonus! With many of the programs, you’ll have opportunities to learn K-pop dance moves, see Buddhist arts in action, visit royal tombs, and so much more. You could also connect with the community by helping orphanages and advocating for peace.
- Recommended program: The Experiment in International Living: K-Culture & Peacebuilding
4. France
Did someone say toasted baguette and brie? Délicieux!
- Why? A dash of art, a sprinkle of history, and a helping of music—a recipe for a cultural experience to remember. You’re also just a quick jaunt to several neighboring countries too! From viewing the City of Lights from the Eiffel Tower to exploring the vineyards in countryside towns, you’ll love touring scenic landscapes no matter where your France study high school abroad program takes you. Plus, you could learn French! Oui oui!
- Recommended program: World Class Programs: Discover the City of Lights - Summer Program
5. Japan
- Why? How about kicking it with karate, learning some calligraphy, or watching sumo tournaments? Better yet, visit an anime museum or sample some world-class sushi! Sprawling with sacred temples and modern cities, Japan combines the best of both worlds as you discover its advanced technologies and ancient traditions. Many programs offer opportunities for you to earn credits through innovative courses and interactive activities.
- Recommended program: Greenheart Travel: Teen Summer Language Camp in Japan
6. Australia
- Why? The Land Down Under’s always a fan-favorite that boasts landscapes ranging from oceanic ecosystems to cosmopolitan cities (and everything else in between). Discover programs to sail the seas, plunge the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, rehabilitate wildlife, and help with revegetating local parks. While the country’s main language is English, you’ll be immersed in a diverse population while you get a top-notch education from their high schools.
- Recommended program: Travel for Teens: Australia Service and Adventure
7. New Zealand
Visit Frodo’s hobbit hole on a study abroad trip in New Zealand.
- Why? If you can’t get enough outdoor adventures, environmental conservation, cultural exploration, and animal welfare, look no further than the land of Kiwis. Marvel at glow worms in caves, raft across rapids (with guides), or bike ride through mountainous regions. Many programs in New Zealand will teach you about Māori culture and provide you with leadership opportunities all in a warm, welcoming environment.
- Recommended program: Study Abroad in New Zealand with Greenheart Travel
8. Iceland
- Why? Dubbed a “Nordic Oasis,” Iceland offers sweeping cinematic landscapes to explore. Soak in natural hot springs, marvel at majestic fjords, and hike along craters and caves—and that’s not even half of it. You’ll find community service and outdoor education programs available to help restore natural forests, clean up coasts, or learn about horticulture and horse breeding. High schools in Iceland are friendly, encourage creativity, and offer a variety of clubs to join.
- Recommended program: GoBeyond: Global Community Service Adventures for Teens
9. Italy
- Why? With iconic sites, mouth-watering pizzas, and impressive theatrical performances, your experience studying abroad in Italy will be *chef’s kiss.* Many of the programs offer opportunities for you to stay with a host family so you can immerse yourself in la dolce vita as you learn Italian along the way. Florence boasts Renaissance art, Milan brims with fashion, and Rome flaunts ancient architecture—you can’t go wrong with any city you choose!
- Recommended program: World Class Programs: Florence, Italy Summer Cultural Experience
10. Spain
Admire Gaudí’s architecture between classes.
- Why? The land of sunshine, siestas, and flamenco—what could be better? Tapas! Plus, as most programs accommodate students with a host family, you’ll no doubt learn Español because you’ll be immersed in it. You’ll find a large selection of electives to choose from with real-world experiences, such as filmmaking, Spanish civilization, and entrepreneurship. With several student-friendly cities and stunning landscapes, Spain is calling your name!
- Recommended program: Nacel International: High School Exchange in Spain (15 to 18 Years Old)
11. China
- Why? Dotted with skyscrapers, ancient temples, and bustling markets, you’ll for sure have an unmatched adventure exploring the oriental world of China! The vast majority of programs offer courses to learn Chinese—the #1 most spoken language in the world, and knowing it will bid a brighter future for your employment prospects. You may even get to meet some pandas, pick up some Kung Fu skills, and hike sections of the Great Wall along the way!
- Recommended program: Travel For Teens: China Discovery
12. Czech Republic
- Why? In the heart of Europe lies the Czech Republic, featuring picturesque villages, castles, and cathedrals—your insta will look like a fairytale scrapbook by the time you get home. High school study abroad programs vary from high-quality creative arts to language immersion courses, and you can live with a host family and get to sample lots of dumplings! Plus, your program may just take you to other neighboring cities and countries.
- Recommended program: AFS Intercultural Programs: Study Abroad in Czech Republic
13. Argentina
Learn to dance the Tango on the streets of Buenos Aires.
- Why? A fusion of European and Latinx culture, Argentina dishes out a wide gamut of landscapes and landmarks. Ski the slopes in Patagonia, try out some tango moves, feel your jaw drop at the beauty of Iguazú Falls, and savor the flavors of Asado. Choose to study high school abroad in rural, medium-sized, or more urban areas with a host family where you can embrace the culture authentically and learn Spanish to the fullest.
- Recommended program: Mente Argentina: High School Program in Buenos Aires
14. Thailand
- Why? With golden temples, bustling markets, and stone ruins, you’re walking into a living, breathing kaleidoscope of beauty in Thailand. Best of all, the cost of living and education is typically more affordable. If you’re looking to make a difference, you could learn to care for elephants or teach English to Buddhist monks. “The Land of Smiles'' is also an adventurer’s paradise with white water rafting, zip lining, and reef snorkeling opportunities!
- Recommended program: Where There Be Dragons: Thailand: The Spirit of Greng Jai (Summer)
15. Costa Rica
- Why? As one of the friendliest Central American countries with a plethora of learning opportunities for teens, it’s no wonder that Costa Rica has become a popular place to study abroad in high school. You have plenty of program choices that focus on anything from turtle conservation to Spanish conversations. Snorkel in the turquoise waters, zip line across cloud forests, or explore coffee plantations—soak in la pura vida to your heart’s content.
- Recommended program: GLA Costa Rica: Volunteer Programs for Teens
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Studying abroad in high school could change your life!
Now it’s up to you! Which country will you study abroad in during high school?
From spotting penguins in Argentina to surfing the waves in Australia, you’re bound to create lasting memories in any of these best places to study abroad in high school. Plus, you’ll meet new people from all over the world, and those friendships could turn into lifelong besties.
No matter the choice you make on where to study abroad in high school, you’ll most likely walk away with unique educational perspectives, an appreciation for different foods, and fun phrases that’ll color your vocabulary!
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