Your CIEE Journey
Live the life of an ordinary high school student, in a far-from-ordinary place.
Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. On CIEE’s High School Semester Abroad programs, school schedules, activities, cultures, and courses are as diverse as the destinations themselves—which is all part of the experience!
With CIEE, you can choose the program that is right for you—immersing yourself in a local high school with local high school students or joining fellow American students for courses taught by local CIEE instructors in a world-class destination. No matter what you choose, you are certain to make unforgettable memories on your semester abroad.
Check out what high school life is like in Toulouse, France with Global Navigator, Ina.
Immersion Programs
Attend classes in the native language at a local high school, where you may be the only American. Living with a host family, you’ll experience the cuisine, traditions, and daily lives of the locals firsthand, every day. You’ll be placed in a reputable, well-established public or private high school where you’ll attend classes in the local language and follow the local curriculum. Walking in the shoes of a typical teen, you’ll quickly become part of the local community!
Semester In Programs
Our unique semester in programs combine in-person learning with online coursework, helping you stay on track with your home school’s graduation requirements while enjoying the benefits of studying abroad. You’ll study with other U.S. high school students from across the country with in-person classes led by local CIEE instructors, and supplement with online courses through ASU Prep Global.
Activities & Excursions
Live and breathe the local culture every day of the week. Discover your host town and region inside and out with your new local family and friends. After school, join in optional extracurricular sports and activities. On weekends, take part in organized daytrips and excursions to hike, bike, and explore historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and places of unforgettable natural beauty.
College Success Starts With a High School Semester Abroad
When you join a CIEE High School Semester Abroad program, you are granted CIEE College Access, an exclusive college planning resource designed in partnership with top colleges and universities to help you leverage your international experience for college success! The best part—CIEE College Access is included with your CIEE experience at no additional cost.
Together with our college partners, we’re committed to:
- Making College Planning Accessible – Expert guidance without the high cost of private counseling.
- Sharing Insider Knowledge – Direct access to admissions officers from top institutions.
- Investing in Your Future – Setting you up for success in college and beyond.
Preparing to Study Abroad
From meeting with guidance counselors to applying for visas, the study abroad planning process has many moving parts. Every school is different, but all can agree that studying abroad offers a world of experience and new learnings. This guideline details a number of important things to keep in mind and look out for, up to a year before your intended departure.
Things to Do Before Studying Abroad for a Semester
- Discuss your study abroad interests, school policies, and how to stay on track for graduation
- Research and choose the right study abroad program for you
- Apply to study abroad program
- Receive acceptance into a high school abroad program
- Apply for a visa (if necessary)
- Talk to your guidance counselor about earning credit for your program abroad
- Receive placement details
- Attend predeparture orientations
- Get answers to lingering questions
- Start getting excited!
- Pack
"Out of Your Comfort Zone" Podcast
Check out this episode of our podcast to hear from our Ambassadors Abroad about their experiences in Spain, France, and Japan!
High School Semester Abroad Blog
The Eye-Opening Differences Between American and Japanese High Schools
Post written by Ambassador Abroad , Luna, who is currently participating in our High School Semester Abroad program in Kyoto, Japan ! Read more to learn about her experience thus... keep reading
Cultural Differences Between the USA and Spain
Hi! I’m Mara and I’m studying as a high school exchange student in Spain for 9 months this year. Spain has been a rollercoaster so far. There've been a ton... keep reading
How to Talk to My U.S. High School About Credits Earned Abroad
If you are preparing to study abroad in high school for a semester or an academic year, don't forget about one critical step—determining with your U.S. high school if you... keep reading
High School Semester Abroad
Register for one of our upcoming webinars to learn more about our High School Semester Abroad programs. The CIEE team will answer your questions and help you get started on the next steps towards making your study abroad dream a reality.
Differentiators
Still Have Questions?
Check out our FAQ page for more information on the application, pre-departure process, costs, and more.
Further Assistance
For more help, call our team at 1-866-583-0332 or send us an email at hsabroad@ciee.org today.
Schedule a Call
If you want to schedule a call with a CIEE Enrollment Coordinator in your area, find a time on our bookings page.