While You're Abroad

You will be placed in a reputable local language school with other international students for 15-20 hours of instruction per week. The format of these classes and the placement process can differ country to country, but you will always be tested to be placed in a class with other students at a comparable fluency level, so that you can stay challenged and motivated throughout the entire stay.

Whether you strike a conversation with a retail associate at a store, order take-out or navigate a foreign public transportation system, your language skills will be put to the test every single day. Watch for it: you will start dreaming in your target language faster than you think!

CIEE understands all Gap Year Abroad students decide in part to travel with us because of the opportunity to experience the local culture of a foreign destination. CIEE staff plan fun cultural activities and outings designed to give students an insider’s view of your program location. Let CIEE be your local expert! These activities and outings are a great way to get immersed in the local culture while sharing your experience and having fun with fellow Americans. Gap experiences strike that awesome balance between group and solo time.

Your homestay is likely what you’ll remember most fondly from your gap experience. Not only does it put you in a position to practice your language skills every day, it also provides you insights into the local way of life and customs like nothing else could. Compare football teams with your host brother. Talk politics with your host parent(s). Whatever the topic, you’ll practice fresh words and skills and get to know each other better, while you dig into a home-cooked meal.