For many people in international education, 2022 felt like a turning point in the pandemic. If you’re a college student or young traveler, you surely noticed how many borders finally began to reopen and that travel requirements became increasingly lenient.
There’s no denying that travel is coming back, slowly but surely—and a reinvigorated travel industry means new and returning opportunities for meaningful experiences abroad! So, if you’re looking for the best of the best to travel within 2023, the Top Rated Organizations of 2022 is a great place to start.
Top Rated Organizations of 2022
When researching potential experiences abroad, there’s a lot to consider: What can you expect to learn? Where are participants housed? What is the staff like? One of the easiest ways to get all of the most important information is to read program reviews. Getting the inside scoop from people who have already had the experience that you’re interested in will make your search that much easier!
GoAbroad’s Top Rated Organizations of 2022 is a round-up of the most highly-rated providers on GoAbroad. Check them out below—it’s a great place to start your search!
Top Rated Study Abroad Organizations of 2022
1. John Cabot University
“JCU is an amazing university, full of great people to know and different cultures. The program is very well structured and coming to the university every day does not feel anxious. The professors are amazing and they will help you following you step by step.” - Elena Orazi, Earn Your Degree in Rome at John Cabot University Alumni
2. University Studies Abroad Consortium
“My advisors were full of joy, always wanting to help, gave advice when needed, and traveled with us through group trips. Giving us the independence we craved, traveling around Italy led me to long-lasting friendships, trying new food, wine, and much more… USAC especially is organized, caring, inclusive, and thoughtful throughout the whole process.” - Samantha Jacobson, USAC Italy: Torino - INTL Business, Politics & Architecture Alumni
3. Loop Abroad
“My favorite parts were the spay/neuter clinic where we got to see interesting techniques and observe closely, the hikes, the free day, and giving medications to the dogs. I loved being able to help the dogs. Our vet leaders were so amazing and knowledgeable. You could really tell they cared about the animals and teaching us.” - Kelly Sanchez, Costa Rica Pre-Vet Shelter Medicine Alumni
Top Rated Internship Organizations of 2022
1. Meiji Internships
“Meiji did everything perfect, in terms of accommodation, sightseeing, my company… the wonderful staff did an amazing job. I can sense that they do what they do with passion, because it was clear they genuinely wanted me to have a good experience… An internship helped me in my professional and personal development.” - Oliver Jones, South Korea Internship with Meiji Internships Alumni
2. Intern Abroad HQ
“My personal and professional goals that I set prior to coming to Peru were met. The staff is a great group of people that always welcome you with a warm smile, the activities every week helped me bond and create some great friendships with awesome people, and the support that the local team offers to help us succeed and make the most of our time here is limitless.” - Angelica Ante, Most Affordable Internships in Peru | Intern Abroad HQ Alumni
3. Global Experiences
“I had an experience I will never have, and it was all thanks to GE! From my application to the day I left my destination, I always felt that the people at Global Experiences were taking good care of me, and always had my best interests at heart. They helped me assess my strengths and weaknesses and found the placement that best suited my interests.” - Alex Bevier, Global Experiences: Intern Abroad in Galway, Ireland Alumni
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organizations of 2022
1. African Impact
“All of the staff from the volunteer manager to the research manager are amazing at what they do and make sure that your experience here is amazing. The accommodation is unbelievable and I feel like African Impact undersold themselves with not stating how good it is, it honestly blew me away when I arrived. The social aspect of this project is really good.” - Tom, African Wildlife Photography and Conservation Alumni
2. International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
“I did not think that I would be able to make an impact in one week… Getting to experience another culture and way of life with my teenage daughter was my favorite and most memorable moment of the volunteer experience. For anyone thinking about volunteering abroad, I can say, do it! IVHQ is a safe, friendly, accommodating, and wonderful organization.” - Beth Salem, Volunteer in Childcare in Costa Rica Alumni
3. GVI
“I was surprised at how quickly I settled into a routine on base. I loved it - the complete immersion in nature and the sense of community and belonging I had whilst being there. I have made so many wonderful memories. I thank GVI for such a wonderful experience and look forward to staying involved as a GVI Ambassador!” - Vivika Martini, Marine Conservation Expedition in the Seychelles Alumni
Top Rated TEFL Certification Organizations of 2022
1. International TEFL Academy
“ITA’s course for receiving my TEFL certification was beyond informative and the staff during and after my classes have been prompt to respond to my concerns and questions… I feel like I’m prepared to work abroad in Japan next summer.” - Lynsey Abrams, Award Winning TEFL Courses for Teaching English Abroad Alumni
2. i-to-i TEFL
“I am very much impressed with how detailed the feedback is on assignments and how organized the information on the modules are. i-to-i TEFL makes me feel excited to continue on this path and strive to accomplish more. Thank you!” - Savannah-Marie Arendse, The World's Only Advanced 420-Hour TEFL Diploma Alumni
3. The TEFL Academy
“I enjoyed the course overall. It taught me different learning and teaching skills. It was challenging enough and very easy to navigate… The TEFL Academy communicated throughout my program, from updates to when they were working on the site.” - Micaela Alapatt, Combined Level 5 TEFL Course Abroad Alumni
Top Rated Language Schools of 2022
1. That's Mandarin
“Four different Chinese teachers taught me over this period and I found all four teachers were very professional, preparing in advance of my classes. The computer system supporting the Chinese language lessons is very advanced, with Hanzi, Pinyin and tones plus English translations all provided.” - Nicholas Green, Intensive Private Chinese Classes Alumni
2. Meiji Academy
“My summer at Meiji was nothing but good times. The prices are competitive and the lessons didn't suffer in quality as a result, I have to say I was actually a little surprised. If you’re looking for quality lessons with no messing about, this is it.” - Hayden Stone, Meiji Academy - Summer in Fukuoka Alumni
3. MAXIMO NIVEL
“I loved my time with Maximo Nivel! The teachers were amazing and really wanted me to learn as much as possible. They really focused on having conversations so that I could practice talking in Spanish as much as possible. The staff was very friendly and was always available to help me.” - Juliet Hall, Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America Alumni
Top Rated Gap Year Providers of 2022
1. Pacific Discovery
“The instructors are amazing and the program itself is so diverse! We do something new every single day… This program brought me into the happiest time of my life. I’m extremely grateful for the special moments I’ve made with the members of my group as we’ve traveled to four different countries, immersing ourselves into different cultures and trying new things every day.” - Willow Lamkin, Southeast Asia Gap Year Semester | Pacific Discovery Alumni
2. Carpe Diem Education
“If you are thinking about a gap year program, Carpe Diem Education will help you learn more about yourself and the world around you than you could in any other setting. Anytime I have the opportunity to tell people about Carpe is a privilege. Their programs are designed to push you to learn, grow and step out of your comfort zone.” - Hadley Hobbs, Latitudes Gap Year w/ Carpe Diem: Group & Independent Travel Alumni
3. EF Gap Year
“EF did a great job at finding experiences and activities very catered towards our age group as well as hitting all the major sights you have to see. They have a great support system for you once you are out of your big groups and at your school, service learning, or internship location. You never feel alone through the trip.” - Anna Brim, EF Gap Year: Customizable 25 Weeks in Multiple Destinations Alumni
Top Rated Teach Abroad Organizations of 2022
1. Korvia Consulting
“They were ready to help at any point and I think their interview prep was the key reason why I was able to land the job. Every Korvia team member that I was in contact with were kind, encouraging and extremely helpful. Thanks to them I was able to live the best year of my life to date while travelling and teaching.” - Sada Kazimova, Korvia Consulting - EPIK Spring 2022 Exclusive Partner Alumni
2. TravelBud
“TravelBud was the saving grace to my travels abroad… they helped me with every little thing that I needed from the very beginning of initial questions right until I was actually in Korea and at my school. They were professional, prompt with responses, and incredibly friendly with every conversation that we shared.” - Jessica Geffen, Paid Teaching Program in South Korea with TravelBud Alumni
3. Asian College of Teachers
“I had a good time and I got a chance to improve my skills. I have learnt a lot about teaching techniques. And I had a good practice to improve my teaching skills... Feedbacks from the trainer and the peers were very useful. My overall experience was great.” - Farshiya Fathima, TEFL Certification and Teaching in India Alumni
Top Rated High School Abroad Organizations of 2022
1. Arcos Journeys Abroad
“Arcos was exactly what I was looking for... It was the perfect way to see Costa Rica with other like-minded teenagers who also wanted to travel and experience the culture. The volunteer opportunities, community involvement, environmental exploration, and friends I made along the way have helped to shape me and who I will become in the future.” - Emma Markwardt, Community Service & Eco Adventure Alumni
2. World Class Programs
“The staff are super helpful if you need accommodations or help with anything. There are a variety of classes and the teachers know the subjects. There were a lot of activities outside of class and we got to go to different places. The staff are always concerned about safety but still having fun. It is a great way to experience dorm life before college.” - Iris Peterson, Discover the City of Lights - Paris, France Summer Program Alumni
3. Abbey Road Programs
“The Abbey Road Barcelona program was one of the best experiences of my life… The Abbey Road staff planned everything perfectly so we could enjoy so many amazing cultural experiences. I still can’t believe how much we accomplished during the 3.5 week program!” - Luca Goff, Barcelona, Spain: Spanish Summer Immersion for HS Students Alumni
Top Rated Adventure Travel Organizations of 2022
1. The High Desert Center
“if you want a truly meaningful, unparalleled, one-of-a-kind, nature-focused, intimate, challenging, growth - not gap - year, then check out the High Desert Center (HDC). It has no equal. It really is transformational… This program allows ALL people to thrive! No matter your personality traits, likes and dislikes, and life experiences” - Ellie Choslovsky, 3 Affordable Months of Adventure, Travel, Community & Growth Alumni
2. International Medical Aid (IMA)
“IMA did a great job at offering a wide range of treks and weekend activities, which was a nice break from the hospital during the week! The treks were all very well organized, and the staff and drivers worked hard to make sure they were fun-filled and safe.” - Katie Fairhurst, IMA Safaris Africa - Group and Student Travel Opportunities Alumni
3. InterExchange
“Each organization/group/person who spoke to us about local environmental issues showed genuine enthusiasm for what they do and taught us immensely valuable information that I will be able to carry with me forever. Our trip leader organized all activities in such a way that made me feel like a traveler rather than a tourist.” - Lily Roberts, Sustainable Action Costa Rica Alumni
Top Online Programs of 2022
As we enter the third year of the Covid pandemic, participating in meaningful travel programs online is still viable. Online programs continue to adapt and evolve in the changing landscape of international education, creating truly unique—and worthwhile—experiences for participants!
Top Online TEFL Course
- Award Winning TEFL Courses for Teaching English Abroad
- “The TEFL course content was engaging and very realistic for my future. Also, the feedback given was always extremely helpful and I was able to use this feedback to correct my mistakes for the following week. I enjoyed learning from my instructor a lot!” - Lillian Jones, Award Winning TEFL Courses for Teaching English Abroad Alumni
Top Online Internship
- Affordable Remote Virtual Internships | Intern Abroad HQ
- “Since our first interaction, I have been welcomed with kindness and I immediately felt part of the team. The whole internship program was person-centred, based on my personal and professional goals.” - Alina Chirvase, Affordable Remote Virtual Internships | Intern Abroad HQ Alumni
Top Online Language Course
- Online Chinese Learning: 1-on-1
- “I highly recommend the classes at That's Mandarin! The course coordinators and the teachers are very helpful and flexible to our needs. The lessons are engaging and interactive. The subject matter is interesting and useful straight away in our day to day life. I am amazed at what I learned in such a short amount of time!” - Carmela L., Online Chinese Learning: 1-on-1 Alumni
Top Rated Notable Mentions
CIEE, Study Abroad
- “I had an amazing semester full of growth and so much fun and it is all because the CIEE staff made it possible.” - Natalie Glick, CIEE Language and Culture in Lisbon, Portugal Alumni
ArtBound Initiative, Intern Abroad
- “Artbound Initiative is absolutely amazing! They help you prepare so well before you even get your placement.” - Katherine Smith, ArtBound Initiative - Creative Internships in New York Alumni
VACorps, Intern Abroad
- “The VACorps staff was so welcoming and felt like family from the second we arrived.” - Emma Graddy, VACorps Professional Internship Program Alumni
Volunteer Encounter, Volunteer Abroad
- “I cannot applaud the amazing employees and management who cocreate this wonderful place/experience enough.” - Naemi Frey, Volunteer with Horses, Antelope Park Alumni
Atlas Volunteers, Volunteer Abroad
- “My expectations were exceeded by far and I am glad to have found the project.” - Lara Schadwinkel, Low Cost, Meaningful Volunteer Placements from $65 in Ghana Alumni
Projects Abroad, Volunteer Abroad
- “Friendly and welcoming staff, I had a great time during the project and they are very knowledgeable.” - Michelle Goh, Shark Conservation in Fiji with Projects Abroad Alumni
International TEFL and TESOL Training, TEFL Courses
- “ The teaching skills, teaching strategies, and the content resources are wonderful.” - Yurie, International TEFL and TESOL Training - Online Courses Alumni
Premier TEFL, TEFL Courses
- “The course material was laid out so professionally and thoughtfully that each step built onto the next.” - Lauren Mc Alister, Best Self-led 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certificate for 2022! Alumni
International College for Teachers and Trainers, TEFL Courses
- “The materials provided were so good and comprehensive. Experience with ICTT was smooth and hassle free.” - Heena Idnani, International TEFL/TESOL Course Online (Live Classes Option) Alumni
Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI), Volunteer Abroad
- “It truly felt like the most meaningful, informative, and exciting three months of my life!” - Andrew, Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring and Conservation in Galapagos Alumni
African Conservation Experience, Volunteer Abroad
- “It has given me a unique opportunity to work with lots of different species which would not have been possible…” - Ella Price, Personalized Veterinary Experience in South Africa Alumni
Travel For Teens, High School Abroad
- “There was not a day that I didn't enjoy or that I was bored. We went to so many spectacular places…” - Kenzie Romaniuk, Travel For Teens: Iceland Adventure Alumni
College Year in Athens, Study Abroad
- “The experience was a good mix of academics and immersion, and the administration was very accommodating.” - Celia Woodhull, Study Abroad in Greece with CYA (Summer) Alumni
TeachTEFL, TEFL Courses
- “This program has helped me understand my role as a teacher and learn the psychology of a learner as well.” - Dangi Ngwenya, 120-Hour Advanced TEFL Course Alumni
Next steps to achieving your travel goals in 2023
- Use MyGoAbroad to find, save, and compare programs (for free!)
- Ask our Online Advisor to match you with programs that fit your interests—you’ll get recommendations in less than 24 hours!
- Read tips on How to Pick the Right Program Abroad for You
- Get ideas on Questions to Ask Your Study Abroad Advisor
- Browse our Travel Article Directory or sign up for our Newsletter to stay motivated and inspired!
Are you an international educator who wants to make it on our 2023 top rated list? Contact us to start gathering more reviews now!
*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 2022 calendar year.
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