Can I Travel Independently During My High School Semester Abroad Program?

Studying abroad in high school is an adventure like no other!

Naturally, you might be dreaming about exploring not just your host city but also nearby countries. When considering traveling independently during your High School Semester Abroad program, there are several factors to consider to support your safety and engagement while abroad. 

Here’s what you need to know.  

What Is Considered as Independent Travel? 

Independent travel refers to any trip not planned, organized, or chaperoned by CIEE or the Receiving Organization (an entity or institution in a foreign country that helps host or collaborates with CIEE to deliver your specific program).  

This means if you’re arranging your own travel plans outside of trips arranged by your homestay family, program-organized excursions, educational student travel organized by your host school, CIEE, or Receiving Organization —it falls under the category of “independent travel.” 

Trips planned and organized by your host family, where a homestay parent accompanies you, are not considered independent travel. However, any other travel, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a day trip, will require approval from your local program staff, your host family, and your legal guardians. 

It’s also important to know that additional guidelines or restrictions may vary depending on your program location. Ultimately, local program staff will evaluate the safety and appropriateness of your travel plans before giving approval. They are also knowledgeable on the area and have the best understanding of how to travel smartly and safely. Always check with them to ensure your trip complies with all program rules. 

What Are the General Rules for Independent Travel? 

While independent travel can be part of your study abroad experience, there are clear guidelines: 

• Pre-Approval is required: All independent travel must be approved by CIEE, your homestay family, your parent(s)/legal guardian(s), and, where applicable, the Receiving Organization. Not only does CIEE need to approve the request, but also your parents/legal guardians and, where applicable, the Receiving Organization. There is a special form, the ‘Travel and Visitor Request Form,’ that needs to be completed and approved at least 2 weeks in advance; your parent(s)/legal guardian(s) must sign this form.  
• No solo travel. A chaperone is required: Overnight trips must include an adult chaperone over 25 years old, and their contact details must be included in your travel request form. 
• School first: Missing school to travel? That’s a no-go. Independent travel is allowed during school breaks and weekends only. 

Country-specific rules vary, so here’s a quick breakdown (as of January 2025): 

• In Germany, Ireland, Japan, and Spain, there is no independent travel allowed in the first 60 days, and you’re limited to two (2) independent trips per semester. 
• In Denmark and France, there is no independent travel allowed in the first 60 days, and you are limited to one (1) independent trip per semester.  
• In Italy, independent travel isn’t allowed at all, though you can travel with your host family or on school-organized trips. 
• In the UK, weekend or school break trips are allowed, but you must travel with an adult chaperone over 25 years old. You are also encouraged not to travel in the first 60 days of the program.  

In short, local CIEE staff set guidelines on travel based on several factors (school calendars, local holidays, program activities). That's another reason why it's so important to communicate with CIEE if you're hoping to travel or have visitors. 

Can My Family Visit Me While I Study Abroad? 

On most programs, yes, but there’s a catch: visits from family or friends are best saved for later in the program. Here’s why: 

• Visits are discouraged during your first 60 days to help you adjust to your new environment and overcome initial challenges like homesickness. 
• The best time for family visits? Toward the end of your program or during school breaks when you can fully enjoy their company without disrupting your experience. 
• All visits must be pre-approved and carefully planned within program guidelines. 

Having your family visit is a great way to share your experience, but waiting ensures you’re fully immersed in your host community first. 

Note: Students studying in Italy are not allowed to receive visitors while on the program. The Receiving Organization encourages visitation after the program concludes. 

Can I Go Home During My High School Semester Abroad? 

Returning to your home country is discouraged during your semester or year abroad, except for preapproved major family events or in the event of an emergency.  

Can I Travel with My Host Family? 

Yes, travel with your host family is generally encouraged! Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a holiday trip, traveling with your host family is a fantastic way to deepen your bond and experience local culture from their perspective. 

Can I Miss School to Travel? 

No. Missing school to travel is not permitted for independent trips or visitors. Your program is designed to balance academic success with cultural immersion, so attendance is essential. 

Exploring the World in High School 

Studying abroad is your chance to see the world and grow as a global citizen. While independent travel is possible on some programs, it’s important to follow the guidelines to ensure your safety and make the most of your experience.  

Ready to start your study abroad adventure? Explore CIEE’s High School Semester Abroad Programs and take the first step toward an exciting and rewarding experience!