A language trip during your gap year
Looking for an unforgettable gap year that combines travel, new friendships and personal development? Then a language trip is exactly what you need. You learn a new language, discover the local culture and make friends from all over the world.
Language courses abroad are fun and interactive. Instead of sitting through long lectures, you do lots of speaking, exploring and practical tasks. Besides the lessons, you'll have plenty of free time to explore the city, enjoy the beach or go out at night. It's a life-changing experience that also prepares you for the future.
The benefits of a language course in your gap year
Truly master the language
You don't just learn from a book, you apply everything in real life. By speaking with native speakers every day, your language skills develop much faster than in a classroom alone. With a few months abroad, many students reach a level they can use in their studies or work.
Broaden your cultural knowledge
You get to know the local culture, traditions and customs. You explore the city, enjoy the food and art, and meet the people. It makes you open to other perspectives: a language trip truly opens your world.
Add value to your CV
Many schools prepare you for official language exams such as DELE, DELF, CILS or Cambridge. A recognised certificate shows universities and employers that you used your gap year well.
How to plan your gap year language course
- Choose your language and goal. Do you want to become fluent, pass an exam or learn the basics of a second language?
- Decide how long you want to go. Most gap year students stay between 8 and 24 weeks. Longer stays often come with a discount per week.
- Pick one or more destinations. You can also split your gap year between two cities or two languages.
- Choose your accommodation. A host family helps your language most; a shared apartment gives you more independence.
- Book and ask questions. Message the school directly through Extralingo with any questions before you book.
Popular destinations for a gap year
Lively cities with plenty to do for months on end are popular among gap year students.
Language trips for every stage of life
Frequently asked questions
What can I expect from a language course during my gap year?
An intensive and interactive learning experience, with experienced teachers in small classes so you get plenty of attention. Besides the lessons, you'll have lots of time to explore, travel and join the school's activities.
Which levels is a language course suitable for?
All levels. Whether you're a complete beginner or already fairly fluent, you always start the course at your current level after a placement test.
What level can I reach?
That depends on your current level, the intensity of your course and how long you stay. Take one of our free language tests to find out where you stand, and ask the school how many weeks you need to reach your goal.
How long should a gap year language course be?
Most gap year students stay between two and six months. Many schools offer lower weekly prices for longer stays, so check the prices for different durations when you compare.
Can I get an official certificate?
Yes. Every school gives you a certificate of completion, and many offer preparation courses for official exams such as DELE, DELF, CILS and Cambridge English.
