Gap Year Programs in Asia

In Kyoto, enjoy the perfect balance of structure and independence, allowing you to explore Japan and yourself before college. Imagine a study experience where you can focus on one of your favorite subjects—Japanese—while living a lifestyle devoted to exploring this passion, along with meaningful moments set aside to reflect and dream about your future. During weekdays, take 15–20 hours of Japanese language classes in lively classrooms with supportive peers and native instructors. Afternoons and weekends invite you to uncover the magic of Kyoto, where the richness of history—the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, the breathtaking views from Kiyomizu Temple, the serene Arashiyama bamboo grove—blends seamlessly with modern energy in arcade cafes, restaurants with experimental cuisine, and the bustling Nishiki Market. On a daily basis, your warm host family will welcome you into their home, sharing meals and introducing you to the rhythms, traditions, and customs of Japanese life.

Tokyo, a global powerhouse of finance and business, awaits you! Gain invaluable work experience in one of the world’s most cutting-edge and liveable cities. Working in Japan’s vibrant capital will elevate your career prospects and help you forge vital global connections. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or professional in transition, this is your chance to build a standout CV and seize your future! Our award-winning program, in partnership with 3,000+ companies and NGOs, is designed to fast-track your professional growth and you'll join our list of 15,000+ global alumni. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a recent graduate, or still exploring your path, we have the perfect fit for you. Visit The Intern Group's website to learn more!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thailand on a comprehensive 6-month journey. Experience an exceptional blend of cultural immersion, wildlife conservation, and community involvement. You'll start your journey by contributing to wildlife conservation in South Africa amidst the Big 5 conservation area. Next, you'll hop on to France where you will immerse yourself in French culture and language during an unforgettable summer in Loire Valley, studying at one of the country's oldest universities. Finally, venture to your third country - Thailand - where you will volunteer as an English teacher in the scenic Hua Hin island. The entire experience offers invaluable cultural insights, skill development, and lifelong memories; igniting passions for social and environmental causes as you embark on a journey toward becoming a dedicated global citizen effecting positive change.

Get the chance to work with injured animals from the Amazon rainforest or at a shelter for sea turtles in one of our internships abroad. At the Institute for Global Studies, we help students gain invaluable work experience in their field from an international context. Wildlife shelter work can bring out the best of human nature. Connecting with abandoned animals instills a sense of accomplishment that few tasks provide. Apart from bonding with animals, gain insight into local communities and their interactions with wildlife in their area. Meet with students, residents, and the general public to learn about their customs. Common duties include food preparation, checking in animals, interpretation to the public, medical assistance, and community outreach.

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Spend 12 incredible weeks exploring Tamarindo, Rome, and Tokyo, three unforgettable destinations that showcase the world’s diversity. This immersive semester blends cultural discovery, new adventures, and light language learning with a supportive travel community. In Tamarindo, Costa Rica (Weeks 1–4), surf warm Pacific waves, join a sea turtle conservation project, hike rainforest trails to Rio Celeste, and explore the Arenal volcano region. In Rome, Italy (Weeks 5–8), step into history at the Colosseum and Vatican, roll pasta and make gelato with local chefs, and take a day trip to Pompeii. In Tokyo, Japan (Weeks 9–12), experience the city’s neon energy, stroll through serene shrines and gardens, try karaoke with friends, and ride the bullet train to Kyoto to explore temples and traditional tea houses. Throughout your journey, you’ll live in EF student residences, travel with your cohort, and join weekly cultural activities plus weekend or overnight excursions. With flights, housing, EF’s global support, and optional U.S. college credit all included, The Globetrotter is more than study abroad; it’s your chance to grow, connect, and experience the world like never before.

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

Unlike traditional study abroad or tourism experiences, Semester at Sea offers a unique opportunity for deep, authentic engagement with countries and cultures around the globe. It's more than just the adventure of a lifetime. It's a transformative experience that will give you a global perspective to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Fall 2026: European, African, South American, and Asian Adventure Embark: September 9, IJmuiden, The Netherlands Disembark: Dec 22, Bangkok, Thailand Itinerary: Portugal, Morocco, Brazil, St. Helena, South Africa, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Hong Kong Spring 2027: Asia, Africa, and Europe Embark: Jan 5, Bangkok, Thailand Disembark: Apr 20, Bremerhaven, Germany Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, India, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Morocco, Scotland

Take urgent action and immerse yourself in one of the world's most ecologically and culturally diverse places by joining a Raleigh Expedition to Borneo. If you're passionate about ecology and wildlife, eager for an unforgettable adventure, and interested in truly immersive travel, then Raleigh Borneo is a must-visit for you. This island harbors 6% of the planet’s biodiversity and is one of the last natural habitats of the orangutan. However, this ecological treasure is increasingly under threat. As a Raleigh Venturer, you'll work toward sustainable solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing Borneo's ecosystems and communities. Whether you’re actively participating in habitat renewal projects in one of the most logged areas in Asia or collaborating with local communities and NGOs to improve access to clean water, hygiene, and sanitation, your efforts will contribute to a brighter future for Borneo. Through impactful community and environmental projects, combined with an exhilarating adventure phase, a Raleigh Borneo Expedition offers an experience that will leave a lasting impact on both you and the island.

Combine adventure travel and volunteering in this awesome 8-week journey to three of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful destinations: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam! Take part in conservation and community-based projects, further enriched with traditional backpacking. From the bustling cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai to the roots amongst Angkor Wat ruins, this Southeast Asia Explorer adventure is the perfect first-time trip if you want to set out on one of the world’s most iconic travel routes! This program is for anyone looking to volunteer and backpack through Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations. No prior experience is required, although the minimum age is 18.

A region accentuated by the colorful robes of Buddhist monks, the vivid greens of rice fields and jungle forests, and the cultural diversity of hill tribe communities—this is the ultimate Southeast Asia semester. Each country offers a unique cultural experience unto itself, and each faces the challenge of reconciling urban expansion and industrialization with indigenous land rights, free movement of nomadic peoples, and equal access to resources. This semester, walk among ancient temples, traverse mountainous jungles, and explore the clear blue water of Thailand’s beaches. You’ll explore tradition, globalization, and human rights against the backdrop of two of Asia’s most complex nations. Immerse yourself in community life through homestays and visits to remote villages. Emerge with your self-awareness and perspective forever altered. 2025: CLOSED Spring 2026: February 25 - May 6 Fall 2026: September 24 - December 4

Are you looking for meaningful activities to fill the all-too-important gap year? Join our program at Go Abroad China, we have solid experience in helping students make informed decisions and research about the next step in their career, as well as providing exciting opportunities for them to explore! We support international candidates seeking valuable and practical ways to spend a gap year by providing a selection of the following programs: 1) Internships in China 2) Mandarin language study 3) Volunteering in Beijing 4) Study & Tour program Our programs have a fee starting at $1,980 USD. This investment covers our all-inclusive support package to ensure a seamless experience: -Guaranteed Program Placement -Visa Application Support -Accommodation Arrangements -Airport Pickup & Orientation -24/7 Local Support & Assistance All packages are customizable to fit your specific needs and budget. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Explore Southeast Asia on a 10-week journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam—where travel becomes transformation. Volunteer at ethical elephant sanctuaries, trek to remote mountain villages, explore ancient temples, and engage with communities through meaningful, culturally respectful exchange. This program combines adventure, service, and immersion to help you grow personally and globally. Learn traditional crafts, share meals with host families, and experience resilience and hospitality in every community. Conservation work, ethical travel practices, and local partnerships ensure your impact is responsible and real. With leadership training, guided reflection, and mentorship built into the experience, you'll return more confident, connected, and prepared for what’s next. Whether you're taking a gap year, earning credit, building your resume, or seeking clarity and purpose, this journey meets you where you are—and helps you grow beyond it. Travel deeper. Grow bolder. Reach out to Learn More!

EA Ski and Snowboard Training are looking for eager skiers to join us in Japan! If you love the outdoors, travel, and have a passion for skiing; this is for you. What is the ski instructor internship course? This program has been designed to set you up as a qualified ski instructor within one winter season. You'll train with EA's world-class trainers, sit your ski instructor qualification, and begin your role as an instructor in one of Japan's top ski schools. The course guarantees interns a paid job offer once they qualified as ski instructors. Inquire now to find out more about the program! Choose from 9 world-class ski resorts across Japan to train and work at this winter. You'll train with the best, gain internationally recognized instructor qualifications, and get the best work experience for your CV. Our courses are open to any intermediate to advance skier eligible for a Japanese Working Holiday Visa. Prices start at USD 6,495 and include accommodation during training, exam fees, training costs, association membership, and much more. Apply today to see if you qualify for this great opportunity!

The Au Pair Program in China gives young foreigners the chance to live with a local host family, assist with childcare or light housework, and experience Chinese culture firsthand. Benefits include: • Learn Mandarin through daily immersion in a native-speaking environment • Cultural exchange by joining in festivals, trying local foods, and experiencing daily traditions • Free accommodation and meals, plus a monthly stipend of 1,000–3,000 RMB • Travel opportunities during free time to explore different parts of China • Skill development in childcare, communication, and cross-cultural understanding This program is ideal for: • Students • Gap-year travelers • Anyone curious about life in China It’s a rewarding, immersive way to experience China while building real-life skills and global awareness.

Dream of living in China? Make it a reality with LoPair Au Pair China, an award-winning agency that connects you with a welcoming host family. Spend a transformative 3-12 months on a cultural adventure! You'll become a part of a Chinese family, assisting with educational childcare for up to 30 hours a week. In return, you’ll receive: - Your own private room & meals - A monthly stipend - Flight reimbursement - Full agency support and more... This is your chance to explore China's majestic beauty, gain independence, and create lifelong memories—all while sharing your language and culture.

LTL Language School is a perfect fit for students looking to improve their Mandarin quickly. Our comprehensive Chinese programs allow students maximum flexibility. You can study at LTL for a week up to a full year. We offer Mandarin language lessons in 11 cities across Asia including Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Singapore, and the jewel in the LTL crown—Chengde, home of our incredible immersion program. We have 1-on-1 and group classes available and accommodation with carefully selected Chinese host families is encouraged to maximize each participant's exposure to the language and culture. Here at LTL, we have welcomed thousands of students since 2007 and are one of Asia's most trusted and premier language schools.

This 70-day Southeast Asia Gap Program takes you beyond the traditional classroom while journeying to three beautiful and naturally diverse countries in Southeast Asia – Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. It is a unique combination of hands-on projects, education, and immersion into fascinating and ancient cultures. Our exclusive access to people and places, developed over decades, gives us a window into aspects of Southeast Asia rarely experienced by outsiders. In Vietnam, we work with youth affected by Agent Orange both in the classroom and in their daily activities. We explore the bustling and historic city of Hanoi as well as the tranquility and natural beauty of the rural provinces. While exploring Cambodia, we become part of the change wherein we get our hands dirty building and installing bio-sand filters for families in rural villages outside Siem Reap. We partner with local conservationists at a Thai nature reserve deep in the jungle to understand the true value of conservation as we learn about Thailand’s endemic animals. Standing knee-deep in rice paddies with our host families, we discover a way of life that has remained virtually unchanged.

Taking a long break from school? Use this period to travel the world and boost your résumé with international experience. At That’s Mandarin, we have a range of programs you can incorporate into your gap year in China! No matter the Chinese language course you choose, we make sure it caters to your individual needs. Studying Chinese with us is generally easy! Pick from any of our schools in Shanghai or Beijing, or study online. Enroll in a program that suits your learning needs and interests: Part-Time, Intensive, Small Group, 1-to-1, etc. Choose a course and we’ll tailor it to your specifications. While on a Chinese Gap Year, you will stay in a comfortable home environment in homestays or Western-style apartments. Plus, you will take part in activities and events that immerse you in China’s cultural and social aspects. Throughout the program, you will get to know other gappers and That’s Mandarin students as well as staff. You will also gain new insights into the Eastern world.