Top Rated Organizations & Programs of 2019

Reading reviews before choosing a program abroad is one of the most basic — but vital — steps in program selection. If you’re ready to take the leap into international travel this year and ensure you’re picking from the best of the best, then these Top Rated Organizations and Programs are an ideal starting point for your research!

We wrote a lot last year about the best programs and destinations for you to check out in 2020, so now it’s time for you to select the right organization for you, your travel goals, and your dreams of pursuing education abroad. Below we’ve compiled a list of Who’s Who in international travel, based on real reviews from past participants* to help you start your 2020 travel planning now!

Top Rated Organizations of 2019

Maybe it sounds dramatic, but it’s true: selecting the right organization can make or break your international experience. It’s incredibly important for potential program participants to take the right amount of time to research contenders, and part of that involves reading reviews from real past participants! Ready to gain incomparable insight on the experience you’re interested in? Here are the Top Rated Organizations on GoAbroad according to reviews from 2019:

Top Rated Study Abroad Organizations of 2019

1. CIEE

“CIEE was the easiest program to apply to, as well as having reasonable application fees and general cost. The excursions were always fun...I loved being able to explore the city on my own, meeting new people…and experiencing new things at my own pace.” - Melody D., CIEE Alumni

2. University Studies Abroad Consortium

“My experience wouldn't have been the same if it wasn't for the staff. The two program advisors…are truly exceptional. They care about the well-being and success of each student. They take time to get to know you and offer all sorts of resources to make you feel welcomed. All the excursions were well-organized, educational and very fun! Flexibility within placement is offered if you don't feel comfortable at the level you were placed. Classes were mixed with students from the USA as well as with students from around the globe.” - Valentina Pinzon, USAC Alumni

3. IES Abroad

“The opportunity to study abroad in Milan brought about the most joyous 3 months of my life. From the delicious food to the beautiful fashion, Milan's unique charm was unmatched. Having never traveled internationally prior to studying abroad, I was nervous that the culture shock would affect me. Thankfully enough, the IES staff made the process of cultural immersion incredibly easy and entertaining. Whether it be the program sponsored trips, or the relationships developed with CA's and professors, the IES Milan program pushed me out of my comfort zone, and as a result left me with memories that I'll cherish for the rest of my life.” - James Den Uyl, IES Abroad Alumni

Top Rated Internship Organization of 2019

1. Global Experiences

“I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to experience a new culture and city. I interned in Florence, Italy as a tour guide for the Florence Duomo and had the opportunity to learn so much about art history and the Italian Renaissance through my job. I also met people from all over the world every day, which was so fun and rewarding. Global Experiences does a great job with career coaching and preparing you to work in a new culture and environment. GE also provides social activities that help you get to know the city and your fellow interns a lot better. Thanks to GE, I was able to both work in a field that I love and explore a new city and culture that I will forever cherish.” - Prasanna Patel, Global Experiences Alumni

2. Absolute Internship

"My experience interning abroad not only provided me with an excellent professional experience, it gave me the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and immerse myself in a different culture. I was fortunate enough to be placed within a great firm and have amazing support from the Absolute Internship team members that were in Hong Kong with us throughout the entirety of the trip. I highly recommend Absolute to any young professional thinking about working abroad, you will not regret it!” - Peter Lincoln, Absolute Internship Alumni

3. Meiji Internships

“I had an amazing time in Sapporo! I worked and enhanced my resume while fully immersing myself in the Japanese culture and joining all sorts of activities. Most people might go “Hokkaido?? Why go there??“ but it is sooo worth it! I love nature, so I was happy to see that Meiji Internships offers the “Explore“ option. I loved my internship and also had plenty of time to travel and relax and unwind. It was truly an amazing experience and I would definitely go again!” - Wie Bke, Meiji Internships Alumni

Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organizations of 2019

1. African Impact

“It was an incredible experience. It was really wonderful to be part of the Holiday program. Would love to return as soon as I can! Every part of the experience was extremely enriching. The staff were also really amazing and friendly.” -- AndreaD, African Impact Alumni

2. GVI

“I love what the organisation is doing here, I've always known I wanted to create change within the built environment to better ourselves but this experience was a huge eye opener to how important and impactful this could really be. I've never had as much inspiration as I did working with GVI. I just hope more people can experience what we did with motivation and fun.” - Zeinab, GVI Alumni

3. Love Volunteers

“My month in Ecuador has gone so fast. And I feel sad that I will be leaving this amazing country. The volunteer placement I was on was incredible...I definitely shed a few tears on my final day of volunteering. Whilst I have been in Ecuador, I've also made lifelong friends. We have shared so many memories, laughs and moments...Thank you so much Love Volunteers with providing me with these amazing opportunities. I will definitely be volunteering with you guys again.” - Elena, Love Volunteers Alumni

Top Rated TEFL Certification Organizations of 2019

1. International TEFL Academy

“Finding ITA and taking this course was the best decision I've ever made! I was stuck in a standstill... I made the decision to move to Costa Rica and get my TEFL Certification with ITA and in those seconds my life changed forever and for the better! I love living in Costa Rica...and I love feeling like what I'm about to do (teach English!) will have a major impact on more than just my life but others lives as well! Thank you International TEFL Academy! <3” - Vivian Yorke, International TEFL Academy Alumni

2. International TEFL and TESOL Training

“The options for taking a TEFL course were BIG. I had no idea how to choose one so I started reading reviews and found ITTT to be in a top-10 list of recommended institutions. Before registering, I sent them an email with some questions and got an answer immediately, that was very encouraging! They take care of people enrolling in their courses with responsibility, kindness, and warmth. I chose the 120-hour course with tutor help and I loved it! It definitely reaffirmed my passion for teaching!! Thank you ITTT!!!” - Maria Luz, ITTT Alumni

3. Premier TEFL

“I am really 100 % satisfied with the course. I've been working as a freelance English/German trainer in Germany for a number of years and have a lot of teaching experience. Still, I have come across a lot of very useful information / resources while doing the 120 hour advanced course...I've really enjoyed this course and wouldn't have thought that there is still plenty of new stuff to learn even for a seasoned language professional. Well, you live and learn. Keep up the great work. Thanks and best wishes, Olaf Strumpf” - Natividad, Premier TEFL Alumni

Top Rated Youth Travel Organizations of 2019

1. Travel For Teens

“After traveling with TFT last summer to France, Italy, and Switzerland, I thought nothing could top the memories I made on this whirlwind trip. Traveling to Thailand this summer as a CIT gave me a whole new level of appreciation for TFT and the impact the staff has on shaping the campers' experiences. I loved the balance between community service, cultural exploration, and exhilarating adventures. Everyday brought something new and different...I can't recommend this trip enough and am so excited to continue working with TFT in the future!” - Melania Hillery, Travel For Teens Alumni

2. Abbey Road Programs

“The three weeks spent traveling throughout the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the Czech Republic with the most extraordinary group of people has truly been unforgettable. The sheer amount of wonderful historic monuments visited, cultural meals shared and memories created over a mere three weeks makes this program a must for any high-school student looking to truly experience Europe. ” - Henry Bryan, Abbey Road Programs Alumni

3. The Experiment in International Living

“This program allowed me to have the most amazing summer of my life. The leaders were amazing people...They wanted to make sure we had a great time and they really succeeded. The experience was shared with an awesome group of other teenagers. We all shared our memories together and we became close super quickly. Overall, The Experiment does everything they can to ensure we really enjoy our trip. I highly recommend. Spain is amazing and it is so great to be able to make memories with some of your new best friends.” - Citlalli Zavala, The Experiment in International Living Alumni

Top Rated Language Schools of 2019

1. Uppsala International Summer Session

“There couldn't be a better way to study Swedish and Sweden. Highly qualified and very motivated teachers, very well organized trips and other activities. Students from all corners of the world, of all backgrounds and ages are welcome and made to feel welcome. You learn a lot, not only about Sweden, but about life and the world.” - Susanna, Uppsala International Summer Session Alumni

2. Instituto Estelar Bilingue

“I have visited Instituto Estelar Bilingue in summer 2018 for the first time, and I studied for five weeks...I could not believe how quickly I learned. The professors The Institute were absolutely fantastic, and I still maintain contact with them. I had such a great time, that I decided to return again in summer 2019 for a refresher. And I'm happy...I enjoyed it just as much the second time as I did the first...I highly recommend this program, the school is great, the teachers are amazing, and the city is very walkable and close to beaches.” - Theresa Birnie, Instituto Estelar Bilingue Alumni

3. Meiji Academy

“Best teachers, best friends, best city! Being welcomed with a nice little tour of the city, and having a farewell dinner all together with my new friends and Meiji's staff... It was perfect from the beginning until the end. The classes: small, interactive, interesting. The share house: clean, joyful. The city: big, lots of events and cool shops, easy to get around (Nice subway, lots of buses, also good to just walk). I wanted my sister to come to study with me in Japan, but she refused. Now that I'm telling her all my adventures she is regretting it haha! Meiji wait for me, next time I'll come back with my little sis!” - Elora White, Meiji Academy Alumni

Top Rated Gap Year Provider of 2019

1. Gapforce

“My tour leaders Callum Jenkins and Terence Kuan were able to maintain professionalism while still managing to make me feel comfortable as well as gave me ample opportunity to have fun. I really developed a lot as a person over the past two months from the cultural immersion, the independence and freedom I got from being able to go out on my own on our free days and having to figure things out on my own, I've swam through caves, summited the highest mountain in Thailand, been blessed by monks, and built a house!!! I'm very thankful to gap force for giving me these opportunities.” - Dante Bonaduce, Gapforce Alumni

2. Wanderlust Exchange

“Not only you get to experience a new culture through staying with a true Chinese family, but you get to make new friends and explore the city. I stayed for 3 months in Beijing and it was truly a life changing experience. Wanderlust was really helpful at all times, since i applied to this program until the moment i left China. I got to live with the sweetest family… and i expanded my horizons. I got to learn mandarin...Overall, the greatest experience of my life until now, thank you Wanderlust Exchange, for allowing me to do this after I finished high school.” - Ximena Hernandez, Wanderlust Exchange Alumni

3. Worldaway Learning Tours

“This was the best travel experience of my life!! I cannot speak highly enough of this tour and of the team at Worldaway Tours. From my very first email to them I felt like everything was very well organized and everything went smoothly throughout the entire process. I will definitely recommend this type of trip, with Worldaway, to anyone I know who is looking for a rewarding way to travel and learn something new! Thanks again for your help and for reaching out.” - Francesca Duffy, Worldaway Learning Tours Alumni

Top Rated Adventure Travel Provider of 2019

1. Grabatour Travel

“Absolutely class!! The team did a great job. Really appreciate the help given for finding work and booking travels. Met such a great mix of people, who all make you feel welcome and just had a good laugh during the intro week. Tour guides felt more like friends than guides, and still managed to keep everyone safe, informed and entertained. One of the best times of my life, and worth every penny!!” - Emily Lancey, Grabatour Travel Alumni

2. ActionQuest Summer Adventure Programs

“I had an awesome experience learning, exploring and engaging. It was an amazing experience. Each day was filled with a new adventure. The staff was supportive. The memories and friendships are everlasting. Definitely returning for another program!” - Sephena Mann, ActionQuest Alumni

3. Stray New Zealand

“A W E S O M E. Stray is sooo good to get going, when you arrive in New Zealand and do not have a clue what is the best way to start your travel. I really appreciated the support of your staff. Thanks for giving me such wonderful impressions of NZ. And: to travel with Stray Guide Cougar topped everything!! :)) I was so lucky.” - Kathrin, Stray New Zealand Alumni

Top-Rated Programs of 2019

Don’t go blindly selecting your travel abroad program! Choose the program of your dreams and confidently select the program experience you’re truly looking for by reading reviews from past participants. Think of them as an exclusive look at what goes on behind the scenes. Check out our Top Rated Programs from GoAbroad reviews in 2019:

Top Rated Study Abroad Programs of 2019

1. AIFS - Study Abroad in Barcelona, UAB: Semester or Year

“I knew that studying abroad would be one of the best decisions of my life. What I didn't know is that AIFS would also turn out to be one of my best decisions ever. I can't emphasize enough how my experience would have been completely different had I gone with another provider. I felt safe at every moment, and cared for which is all you can really ask when you're out in a different continent on your own. Choose AIFS!!” - Luzmia Ligonde, American Institute for Foreign Study Alumni

2. Webster University - Odyssey in Athens Study Abroad Program

“Webster's Athens campus introduced me to some of the best people in the world. The two leaders of my program were incredibly caring and resourceful... The roommates...are now some of my best friends. It was easy to travel around the city and adventure around Greece...I 100% recommend this program to anyone who wants an adventure.” - Ellie Cassidy, Webster University Athens Alumni

3. College Year in Athens - Study Abroad in Greece

“One of the most positive events in my educational career, I am so thankful to CYA for allowing me to study here. The teachers were so smart, and at the same time super approachable and easy to talk to... The culture of Greece is amazing, and because of CYA I was able to feel comfortable and blend in better in the culture... Really just super happy with this program, and grateful I had this experience.” - Harrison Lacy, College Year In Athens Alumni

Top Rated Internship Programs of 2019

1. Global Experiences - Intern Abroad in Dublin

“I carefully researched Internship programs abroad and I am so glad I chose Global Experiences (GE)! They leave no stone unturned in preparing you for success. My culinary employment was absolutely perfect! I was able to learn all aspects of culinary arts in an amazing establishment… I would highly recommend GE without any hesitation. I experienced numerous once in a lifetime moments and will forever have wonderful memories of GE, Heyday Student Living, Dublin, and Ireland.” - Jannene Olson, Global Experiences Alumni

2. The Intern Group - International Internships in Tokyo

“The Intern Group is an amazing company, I made great friends and had so much fun at all of the events. The staff made me feel really welcomed, safe and cared for. I'd 10/10 come back and recommend this to my friends. This program really helped me grow as a person... I'm super thankful for my time here... I know I can take this experience with me anywhere I go and apply it to where I end up. The friends and people I met are going to be my friends... everything I learned here made me more mature and ready for my future. I'll miss the intern group.“ - Meridian Jordan, The Intern Group Alumni

3. Absolute Internship - Intern in London

“First of all, this Absolute Internship experience was amazing for me because it helped me find a good company where I felt very welcome. In addition, I improved my communication skills. I also took advantage of global networking opportunities. The overseas work experience leads to life experience and opened myself up to bigger and better international jobs.” - Erla, Absolute Internship Alumni

Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs of 2019

1. African Impact - Big 5 & Wildlife Conservation Project

“I was a volunteer for African Impact in South Africa in the group "Research and Conservation" for 6 weeks. My schedule was really diverse. I love this amazing experience because I discovered a lot of different things. It was important for me to be useful! I found a second family with African Impact. Every volunteer will remember this experience all their lives!” - Yion-Yion, African Impact Alumni

2. Frontier - Tenerife Whale & Dolphin Conservation

“I would go on another Frontier trip as it is nice to feel you are making a difference and it is affordable and enjoyable! It was easy to settle in and all activities were fun as well as being able to hang out at the beach. House was nice and clean, staff were very nice and project was fun! The boats were fun as the crews were really nice and it was amazing to see the cetaceans, data collection methods were easy to pick up.” - Charlie Burgess, Frontier Alumni

3. BLUE Missions - Water & Sanitation Projects

“Going on a blue missions trip was probably one of the best decisions I’ve made. In only 8 days I learned many different things. This experience was definitely an eye opener to appreciate everything we have back at home.” - Gabriela Peiro, Blue Missions Alumni

Top Rated TEFL Certification Programs of 2019

1. International TEFL Academy - Online TEFL Course with Lifetime Job Guidance Assistance

“After finishing a Ph.D. program, I looked for some opportunities to teach abroad, specifically in Japan. I had contacted some other TEFL organizations, but International TEFL Academy was the only one that really responded quickly and felt inviting. They match you up with an advisor straight away, and make a lot of attempts to make sure you know what you're getting into, as well as emphasizing that they'll be there to help you even after you finish your course and are on your way to finding a job.” - Theodore Oing, International TEFL Academy Alumni

2. TEFL Worldwide Prague - TEFL Course with Lifetime Job Guidance

“Studying and being a part of TEFL WORLDWIDE Prague was a fab experience! I have made lifelong friends and networked with a lot of academic people thanks to the programme. It most definitely does prepare you for the teaching world, and the support we received 24 hours a day from the team was outstanding. Thank you again guys!” - Azize Bozkurt, TEFL Worldwide Prague Alumni

3. The TEFL Academy - Combined Level 5 TEFL Course Abroad

“I would highly recommend the Level 5 combined TEFL course (168 hours) provided by the TEFL Academy. The structure of the online units is clear and logical, and it allows students to explore the topics in-depth. In addition, the classroom experience was engaging and great for practicing teaching techniques in a supportive and helpful environment.” - Christopher Thurston, The TEFL Academy Alumni

Top Rated Youth Travel Programs of 2019

1. GVI - Under 18’s Spring Break Costa Rica Community Development

“This was an amazing experience that I will remember for the rest of my life, and it was really good how it's international, so we're traveling with people from everywhere. It gave us a chance to truly connect with everyone.” - Shane, GVI Alumni

2. Abbey Road Programs - Florence, Italy Summer Program

“I signed up for this program in order to fulfil my Italian language credit at school, and ended up having the best summer (and overall experience) of my life. Not only are the staff extremely accommodating... but there has been unconditional support from almost every staff member at abbey road. The Italian teacher (Angela) was phenomenal... I’m happy to say I made friendships that will last a lifetime...Overall, I could not have chosen a better program and I would 100% recommend this to anyone who is looking to spend their summers abroad.” - Natalie London, Abbey Road Programs Alumni

3. Sol Abroad - High School Study Abroad Program in Mexico

“My daughter travelled with Sol Abroad to Mexico and had an amazing experience. Her host family was amazing and she has grown so much from this program. We are so glad to have a safe way for her to experience other cultures.” - Mwittmer, Parent of Sol Abroad Alumni

Top Rated Language Programs of 2019

1. Instituto Estelar Bilingüe - Spanish Immersion in Costa Rica

“I have learned so much and continue to learn so much!...Everyone is great!...Love the food, the stay, the cleanliness, and everything!...Everyone at Estelar has been great! Yo aprendo mucho in la aula de Leti y Geraldo. Mi casa es limpia and los conversaciones ricos. ¡Soy muy afortunada!” - Adi S, Instituto Estelar Bilingue Alumni

2. Omeida Chinese Academy - Mandarin Language Program

“Omeida college provides excellent, cost-effective, Chinese language lessons to all level of students. There is a concerted effort to foster a sharing and supportive student community. The teachers are experienced and are very participative in the after-school recreational and cultural activities.” - Andy Wong, Omeida Chinese Academy Alumni

3. ELFI - Ecole de Langue Francaise et d'Informatique - Intensive French Courses

“I am not very good at picking up languages, but taking up the course at ELFI really helped me to learn french. The methods used for teaching are fun as well as informative. The teachers have amazing skills to not only teach french but also keep the students engaged and attentive using various activities, games, discussions etc. The classes have a good mix of cultures. Attending classes here was a very enjoyable experience for me!” - Aakriti Thakur, ELFI - Ecole de Langue Francaise et d'Informatique Alumni

Top Rated Gap Year Programs of 2019

1. Outward Bound Costa Rica - Gap Year in Costa Rica, Panama & Nicaragua

“I chose Outward Bound Costa Rica because of the unique cultural experiences they offered, as well as the variety of adventure activities. The most meaningful part of my course was doing service work in Nicaragua and playing with the kids. The service was fulfilling and working with the community around and having interactions was awesome. Through my OBCR experience, I learned that I am strong and capable of flourishing on my own away from home and I have a huge passion for travel.” - Isabelle I., Outward Bound Costa Rica

2. Frontier - Gap Year in Belize, Marine Conservation & Diving

“Loved how passionate everyone was about the project, which particularly showed in Sophie, it’s really encouraging to see and I hope that everyone's hard work is put to good use, I’d hate to see this amazing environment lost to anthropogenic threats. Never going to forget a moment of this trip it’s been such an eye opener...Best aspects of the project: The people I was with and learning how to do a range of ecological surveys…” - Lucy Spencer, Frontier Alumni

3. Winterline Global Education - Gap Year Program

“Winterline was honestly a life changing experience for me. I learned more a year of traveling with Winterline than I did all of high school. I loved being able to immerse myself into all the different cultures! I learned so much about myself...I am very thankful I was able to go on this adventure. I met so many amazing people...Thank you Winterline for such an amazing experience! Hopefully I will be an FA one day!” - Abby Dulin, Winterline Global Education Alumni

Top Rated Adventure Travel Programs of 2019

1. Stray Asia - Southeast Asia: Fun, Flexible, Adventure Travel Network

“I really enjoyed the boat trip with Sunny and the home stay. It was great playing in the Mekong river with the local kids and it was such a kind welcome from the village people in the evening. Sunny made the boat trip a lot of fun and it was also nice to just sit back and enjoy the view...The accommodation has been great...and enjoyed the experience of being able to stay with the village. I highly recommend stray and I hope to get Sunny as my tour guide for more of my trip! He's been able to help with loads of local information, history and an insight into life as a local!” - Dawn, Stray Asia Alumni

2. Grabatour - Vietnam: 13 Day Vietnam Experience

“My friend and I visited Vietnam for a couple of weeks. We met tour leader, Daniel, through a good friend of mine who had toured with him a few months earlier and highly recommended him. My friend was absolutely right about Daniel and I cannot say enough good things about him. Knowledgeable, thoughtful, eager to please, and flexible. He is the essence of the soul of Cambodia. The entire tour took me to many destinations in Vietnam, 2 large metropolises Hanoi and Saigon, Halong bay, Danang,... Really enjoyed this tour.” - Dylan Sanders, Grabatour Travel

3. Outward Bound Costa Rica - Surf, Scuba, Raft & Hike in Costa Rica & Panama

“The beach, surfing, waterfalls, city walks, shopping, cultural experiences - it's a mix of everything. I learned that I love trying new things and experiencing things outside my comfort zone.” - Kat K., Outward Bound Costa Rica

2019 Notable Mentions - Our Top Rated Runner Ups!

We’re also excited to recognize the following organization who were at the top of the pack, but just nearly missed our Top Rated List. They’ve shown great dedication to gathering reviews, and more importantly to providing outstanding international experiences for travelers from around the globe. Here are our 2019 Notable Mentions:

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*Selection Process: Our Annual Top Rated Organizations and Programs are based on both quantity of reviews collected and overall ratings, as well as other measures of quality and participant satisfaction. All reviews counted were published in the 2019 calendar year.

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