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Gap Year Programs in France

La belle France ranks as one of the top most visited and loved countries in the world, and you have the chance to live there immersively. Who wouldn’t want to spend a year in France? Let yourself be enchanted by classic, sophisticated, and diversified landmarks, from the City of Light to the glamorous French Riviera. Muse iconic art and architecture, such as the Eiffel Tower or the infamous Mont Saint-Michel, enjoy the world’s best cuisine, and sip the best wine, all while you develop new skills and passions. Regardless of how you choose to spend your gap year in France, in the end, the world will never look the same.
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56 Gap Year Programs in France

Seamester

Featured Provider of the Month

CIEE Gap Year France

CIEE High School Grads Abroad

10

2

CIEE Gap Year in Paris, France: French Language & Culture

In Paris, find the perfect balance of structure and independence,...

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France
Impact Gap Year logo

Impact Gap Year

9

3

South Africa, France and Thailand Gap Year Exploration

Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thail...

sidewalk in France - IGS
Institute for Global Studies logo

Institute for Global Studies

9

3

France's Premier Internships: 69 Options

France remains one of our top draws. IGS was hired by an internat...

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France
EF Education First logo

EF Education First

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EF Language Year Abroad – Paris, France

Learn French in Paris with EF Language Year Abroad and turn the C...

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.68

37

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

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.

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea

9.76

51

Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages

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.

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Semester at Sea

9.64

44

Semester at Sea: Global Study Abroad on a Floating Campus

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

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Gapforce

9.22

9

Europe Tour with Gapforce

Experience the ultimate European adventure every summer, traveling safely and comfortably between cities via train so you have the maximum time exploring. Get ready to marvel at the history and culture of the Old World, from the art and violence of Renaissance Italian city-states via the high refinement of Viennese coffee houses to the color of Barcelona and the Romantic drama of the French Alps. Join a group of like-minded travelers for this fully escorted four-week adventure of a lifetime. This trip will take you sightseeing across Europe's finest cities.

Absolute Internship

9.58

12

Intern in Paris with Absolute Internship

Our award-winning program gives students the opportunity to spend the summer developing their professional skills on a full-time internship in Paris. Live and work in this unique city from 4-8 weeks, and build rewarding experiences that will help you stand out in an increasingly competitive job market. Work within your industry of choice with over 30 fields to choose from, including Business, Marketing/PR, Fashion, Events Management, Graphic and Design. Absolute Internship organises company visits, career development workshops and cultural activities, day trips, and weekend excursions to help you gain valuable industry insights as well as to explore France and other European capitals. This is an all-inclusive program with high-quality central housing, cultural activities, group dinners, and 24/7 on-site support from our Program Coordinator. Absolute Internship has been featured in the New York Times, BBC News, Bloomberg, and Forbes Magazine. We have placed 4000+ interns at 800+ companies worldwide.

Academic Programs International

9.36

11

API: Experience Paris, France (Scholarships Available)

Immerse yourself in French culture and the way of life in Paris, France! Whether it is gastronomic greatness, artistic endeavor, or cultural cachet you are looking for, there is no doubt that the City of Light still sits right at the top of the European heap. Visit wondrous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre! Are you interested in Art? Study art, design, or fashion with some of the greatest modern artists and professors at Parsons Paris. Take excursions all across France, from Bordeaux to Champagne! The cultural hub of Europe is at your fingertips when you study abroad in Paris, France! New for 2024: Study at one of Europe's top business schools, Grenoble École de Management, with our Semester International Business Studies program in Paris. Here, you can hone your business skills and expand your network amidst a vibrant international student community. Learn more on our website! We also have new internship opportunities in Paris! Design and Restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral to working with Luxury Fashion Brand Management, you will select an internship with an international organization that meets your professional, academic, and personal goals.

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Greenheart Travel

10

1

Study Abroad in France with Greenheart Travel

Spend a trimester, semester, or year studying abroad in France as a high school student, and live like a local while perfecting your French language skills. You are matched with a carefully screened host family and attend a local high school for a full immersion experience in this creatively charged country. Now is your chance to explore the history, art, language, and literature of France while boosting your college application and having the high school experience of a lifetime! Program at a glance: -- Host family accommodation provides a full language and cultural immersion experience -- Must have 2 years of French language experience -- You can choose from 1 or 2-month, trimester, semester, or full academic year programs -- Straightforward online application process -- Start dates available in spring and fall

Linguistic Horizons

9.88

8

Custom Internship Placements in Europe

Unlike other "cookie-cutter" internship programs, we secure customized internship placements for our students. This program is ideal for a mature, autonomous student who is comfortable traveling abroad alone with remote support as opposed to local support. We do all the work that goes into securing you your dream internship. Participants will benefit from getting an internship that fits their interests and requirements. Valuable international experience in your field is priceless! Internships are available in Germany, France, Portugal, Italy, the UK, Greece, and Spain.

World Class Programs

9.86

7

Discover the Heart of Normandy-Rouen, France Summer Program

Join World Class Programs on safe, educational, and worldly experiences in France! Our summer study abroad program is for high school teens from all academic backgrounds who are excited about immersing themselves in French culture and lifestyle. This pre-college program offers diverse course study options, including Art History, Fine Arts, Philosophy, and French language and cuisine. Our unique experiential learning method allows students to explore and engage in French culture safely! We encourage them to immerse themselves in the language no matter their level. Our knowledgeable and passionate staff is always available to help them along the way! Explore France by living in the heart of Paris and taking classes with our World Class Programs instructors. Enjoy day trips to Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel, Lyon, Orleans, Monaco, Tours, Grenoble, and other locations!

Volunteer World

8.69

16

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Cours de civilisation française de la Sorbonne

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5

Learn Business French in Paris

Business French is of growing importance in a world where intercultural communication and mastery of several languages are essential assets! The CCFS business French course thus allows students to integrate many language skills necessary to evolve in a French-speaking professional environment. This program offers the following combination, over 12 weeks of class (one semester), either in the Fall or in the Spring: - French language teaching focused on Business (10 hours per week) - phonetics with laboratory (5 hours every other week) - lectures on French civilization (optional, up to 9 jours a week) - sessions dedicated to oral and professional writing (job interview, administrative email, annual evaluation interview, meeting, telephone interview, cover letter, analysis of articles from the economic and professional press etc.) We also offer the opportunity to completely immerse yourself in the language and culture by living with a French host family!

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Global Work & Travel

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Au Pair France – Explore Europe as an Au Pair

France is known for its sophistication and appreciation for the finer things in life and its range of famous landmarks. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre – you’ll never run out of things to do. Venture outside the capital, and things get even more interesting. Summer is for fine weather and lounging on France’s famous beaches. Experience the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean in Hossegor, or lounge at a luxurious beach club on the Mediterranean. The French Alps are most dramatic in winter with their towering peaks and charming mountain towns. Spring sees the countryside covered in cherry blossoms, signaling the spring harvest, complete with fresh wine from one of the many wineries. As an au pair in France, you too, can develop a palate for good food, fine wine, and its surrounding beauty. You will be a part of the family. Your host family takes care of your lodging and utilities, which means your salary is yours to spend as you please.

Cultural Homestay International

9

3

Teach English to Your Host Family and Explore France!

As a World Explorer in France, you will get the chance to learn the real French way of life. You can put on a beret, learn to make crepes, become a cheese expert and a wine snob during your stay with a local host family. Sharing your language and culture has never been so fun, and not to mention fulfilling. Learning French? World Explorers provides you with an ideal environment to improve your language skills. While you are not required to speak French, we want you to come back from your trip saying more than just, "Voulez-vous coucher avec moi!" CHI works with trusted overseas partners in France to find the best host families possible. Please note that most placements are often outside of the city center due to limited living space in urban areas. While you can request your ideal destination, we ask that you are flexible as our placements can be anywhere in the country depending on what is available. For example, we cannot guarantee that you will be placed in Paris. Recent placements have been near Lyon, Bordeaux, Nantes and Rennes.

Soccer Camps International

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Summer Soccer Camps in France at Paris Saint Germain Academy

Soccer Camps International offers Summer Soccer Camps and Soccer School sessions for players aged 7-17 in France with Paris Saint Germain. Thousands of players from all over the world have participated in these Official Elite Football Clubs International Youth Soccer Camps and Soccer Schools over the years. In France, participants will learn new soccer skills from a team in the France Professional League 1 division: Paris Saint Germain. They will practice in the best training facilities and stay in accommodations used by professional teams. Program participants will join the 'Galacticos' club soccer camp in Europe, Paris Saint Germain Academy Soccer Camp in the city of lights, Paris. Special sessions will have multiple excursions in and around Paris. These camps are run by highly experienced certified coaches with many years of experience teaching young soccer players the best soccer drills.

Baret Scholars

9.43

7

Baret Scholars Gap Year Program

Before and beyond college, Baret Scholars explores 7 regions of the world, their passions, and their purpose. Baret Scholars is a global gap year program that brings together a cohort of 180 high school students from around the world to journey across 7 regions (North/South America, Europe, Africa, Middle East, India, and China/Asia), over 180 days, in a semi-structured and self-guided gap year experience. This will be their best year yet. Named after Jeanne Baret, the first woman to circumnavigate the globe, Baret Scholars provides students with a comprehensive and holistic understanding of the world, paving the way for years of fulfillment and achievement. The program serves as a foundation for their future, fostering cultural literacy, a global perspective, and a desire to create a better world.

Carla's Au Pairs

10

3

Live Abroad as an Au Pair – USA, Europe & Asia

Ready to travel the world, gain independence, and experience life like never before? With Carla’s Au Pairs, you can live with a host family in the USA, Europe, or Asia while caring for children, exploring new cultures, and growing into your future self. Our program places young South Africans and Namibians in exciting countries such as the USA, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, Turkey, and China. You’ll receive a stipend, free accommodation, meals, and personal support from our experienced team - every step of the way. No experience abroad? No problem. We’re here to guide you with training, visa help, and prep. As proud IAPA members, we follow global standards to keep you safe and supported. This is more than a job. It’s a life-changing journey. Join our sisterhood of au pairs around the world and start writing your next chapter!

A Guide to Gap Year in France

Popular Locations

If we could have the time to tell you about ALL the amazing locations for gap year programs in France, we’d be here for hours. So let’s just keep it simple—here are some of the most popular locations that past gappers have fallen in love with.

Paris. A walk about Paris will provide lessons in history, beauty, and in the point of life. -Thomas Jefferson

Adventurers of all shapes and sizes have loved Paris for centuries. When you’re not in class studying or working for gap year jobs in France, you’re most definitely spending your time climbing the Arc de Triomphe, falling head over heels with the Louvre museum, visiting one of the very first Gothic cathedrals, The Notre Dame, and its gargoyles, taking a scenic boat tour down the Seine, getting spooked at the Catacombs, or just relaxing with the most velvety hot chocolate and coffee at Angelina. There’s a lot to do, so it’s a good thing you will be spending a year in France!

Lyon. One of the largest renaissance quarters of Europe, Lyon offers endless opportunities for your gap year in France. You can find jobs as an English teacher, internships to help you gain professional skills, gap year volunteer projects, and courses très immersif to improve your gap year French! Much like the rest of France, there’s tons of history, culture, and food to discover here. Your gap year is all about learning stuff, right?—well, that includes learning you like to eat frog legs and snails! You’ll be a fin gourmet (foodie) in this gastronomic capital before you know it.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! France offers a wide range of opportunities for gap year experiences, including language immersion, internships, volunteer projects, and more. It's a great way to explore the country, learn about its culture, and enhance your skills.

The ideal destination for a gap year in France depends on what aligns with your interests and goals. Popular locations include Paris, the capital city that provides a diverse cultural experience, and Lyon, famed for its historical significance and culinary delights.

France offers a variety of alternatives for gap years, depending on your interests. You can work as an au pair, teach English, participate in internships to gain professional experience or engage in volunteer projects. Language immersion programs are also popular for improving your French skills.

A gap year program in France usually ranges between $600 and $1250 but can vary significantly depending on the program type, location, and duration. If you opt for a formal program, you'll need to budget for program fees, transportation, accommodation, and personal expenses. It's essential to plan your budget early and consider fundraising options to make your gap year affordable.

France is generally regarded as a safe place to visit, but as with any other country, visitors should exercise caution, be aware of their surroundings, and adhere to safety norms. Petty crimes can occur therefore, it's best not to leave valuables unattended and to take common precautions when in the country.

Latest Program Reviews

Life changing experience

November 24, 2025by: Luisa Rulfo - MexicoProgram: Baret Scholars Gap Year Program
10

The most eye opening experience, questioning everything you go through, you knew, discovering yourself among a cohort of brilliant and unique minds. Every virtue is welcomed and supported to the fullest. We scholars discovered the impact of the frase "If you want something you just have to do it." We unlearned and relearned how to perceive life, how to grow, how to move forward, how to relate to people, how to experience life to the fullest. I believe the knowledge I gained from this experience gave me years of lived life worth of knowledge, unreachable without something like Baret.

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