High School Summer Abroad Language & Culture Programs

Live the Language on a Summer Abroad!

Imagine ordering tapas in Spanish in Seville, striking up a conversation with local students in Rabat, or exploring your new neighborhood in Paris as you put your language skills into practice. Our Language & Culture programs immerse you in daily life abroad, helping you learn the language through real-world experiences. From interactive classes to living with a host family, you will strengthen your speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills while deepening your cultural literacy, empathy, and adaptability. With programs in 20 global destinations and 8 different languages available, you’ll gain independence and confidence while experiencing the language and culture firsthand.

Students who join our Language & Culture programs experience language growth similar to the national average achieved in one year of a high school world language course. We measure progress using STAMP 4S language proficiency pre- and post-test scores to assess growth in essential skills like listening, speaking, reading, and writing. You also have the opportunity to earn the Global Seal of Biliteracy, a universally recognized credential that certifies your language skills.

Experience Language & Culture Around the World

Explore our Language & Culture programs in 20 exciting destinations around the world. Study Japanese in Tokyo, learn Arabic in Rabat, practice Spanish in Mérida, and more! Our immersive programs equip you with language learning opportunities you won’t find anywhere else, giving you a competitive edge for college applications and future career opportunities.

All programs include:

• Classes you won’t want to miss: Engage in 3 hours of immersive language lessons each day with a local native speaker teacher. Our classes prioritize practical language skills and effective communication so that you can immediately put your skills to use in your new city. Expect role-playing and fun discussions about local cultural events rather than grammar and essay writing!
• Practice in the community: Put your daily language lessons into practice in your new city. With small groups of fellow Global Navigators, you’ll use your new skills to connect with your community through conversations with locals. Ask a server about their favorite menu item, strike up a conversation at the bus stop, or discuss local traditions with shop owners.  
• Cultural activities: Experience your host culture's products, practices, and perspectives firsthand through daily cultural activities or excursions.
• Homestay connections: Live with a carefully screened host family for the most authentic, immersive experience. Evening conversations over meals and family activities improve your language proficiency, letting you practice in real-life contexts while building meaningful connections.
• College credit option: Earn 4 college credits to put toward a future college degree. This is optional, not required, and requires an additional $250 transcript fee. Learn more by visiting our College Credit page. 

The Seal of Biliteracy recognizes students who have achieved language proficiency in two or more languages by the time they graduate from high school. Our participants use STAMP 4S language proficiency pre- and post-test scores to earn the seal.

Language Eligibility Requirements