7 Study Abroad Programs for Middle School Students
Middle school students can benefit immensely from studying abroad. Immersing yourself in a new culture broadens perspectives, fosters adaptability, and nurtures independence. For young learners, stepping outside your comfort zones can ignite curiosity, build confidence, and develop crucial skills like problem-solving and cross-cultural communication. It’s an adventure that combines education with exploration, offering opportunities to learn about diverse traditions, languages, and ways of life that textbooks can’t replicate.
Beyond cultural enrichment, study abroad programs allow you to delve into subjects you are passionate about. Whether it’s international relations or learning a new language, exploring a topic in an international setting adds depth to learning. Early exposure to specialized fields can inspire you to pursue these interests further in high school, guiding you toward advanced coursework, extracurricular activities, and eventually, college and career aspirations. Here is a curated list of 7 study abroad programs for middle school students!
Arcos Journeys Abroad offers a deep dive into Spanish language and culture in destinations like Argentina, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Spain. Instead of staying with host families, you’ll experience homestays, creating an intimate cultural connection.
The program combines tailored Spanish lessons with enriching activities like cooking classes, traditional dance workshops, and museum visits. The program has flexible durations, from two weeks to a month, making it ideal if you are eager to boost your Spanish skills and cultural knowledge within a short timeframe.
Location: Buenos Aires in Argentina, Atenas in Costa Rica, Oaxaca in Mexico, and Granada, and Santiago in Spain.
Cost: The cost ranges between $2,995 to $6,595.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for two weeks to one month between June to August.
Eligibility: Middle school students who are at least 14 years old are eligible to apply. However, the Spanish Language & Costa Rican Culture program specifically welcomes students starting at 13 years old.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
The Middle School Study Abroad programs by FLSAS offer immersive experiences designed to help you master a foreign language while discovering new cultures. Whether you’re just starting or already have advanced skills, FLSAS offers programs tailored to all proficiency levels.
You can choose from summer, semester, or academic year options in diverse locations. By blending structured language lessons with cultural immersion, these programs allow you to build valuable linguistic and intercultural skills that enrich both your academic journey and personal growth.
Location: Over 45 countries, including options in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Cost: The cost varies by program and location. Detailed information can be provided upon request.
Program Dates: Vary depending on location and semester.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
This Broadreach study abroad program immerses middle school students in the world of marine biology while earning scuba and sailing certifications. This experience combines diving, sailing, and marine science to provide a comprehensive introduction to ocean exploration and conservation.
You will begin your journey by learning to scuba dive in the Caribbean Leeward Islands, observing and studying the diverse marine life you encounter on your dives. You will also discover the underwater ecosystems of Saba, while swimming alongside groupers, jacks, sea turtles, and colorful corals. Beyond the underwater world, you will stroll through the historic streets of St. Barths and explore the role of marine parks in safeguarding ocean health and supporting biodiversity in the Caribbean.
Location: St. Martin, St. Barths, and Saba.
Cost: $5,180.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for 12 days in the summer.
June 20 - July 1
July 5 - July 16
July 20 - July 31
August 3 - August 14
Eligibility: Middle school students who are at least 12 years old at the start of the program are eligible to apply.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply here!
This program allows you to experience Iceland and its role as a leader in climate innovation. From trekking across glaciers to spotting whales along the northern coast, you will gain firsthand insight into the effects of climate change while traveling along the country’s iconic Ring Road.
You will discover the green energy initiatives that power Reykjavík and delve into Iceland's geothermal infrastructure through visits to power plants and guided fieldwork with naturalists. You will also experience outdoor activities like glacier trekking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more. As part of your adventure, you will pursue an independent project tailored to your interests. You might investigate Iceland’s renewable energy practices, delve into Viking folklore, document the life of a glacier guide, or explore the changing realities of fishing communities affected by warming waters.
Location: Iceland.
Cost: $8,590.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for two weeks in the summer.
July 2 - July 15.
July 20 - August 2.
Eligibility: Middle school students in grades 7th and 8th are eligible to apply.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply here!
DCPS Study Abroad program offers 5-12-day free study abroad trips, that focuses on language development, cultural exchange, service learning, and STEM education.
If selected, you are matched with trips that align with your World Language studies and personal interests. This program will help you develop global awareness and build skills that will benefit you academically and personally.
Location: Countries for the summer program are yet to be announced.
Cost: Free!
Program Dates: The program typically runs for 5-12 days in June and July.
Eligibility: DCPS' 8th grade, 11th grade, Certificate 3, and Opportunity Academies students who are studying a World Language are eligible.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in November.
This study abroad animal camp for middle schoolers lets you explore the roles of animal care professionals through hands-on experiences. You will work with Bahamian experts to care for domestic animals at farms, conservation centers, and rescue facilities, assist veterinarians with procedures, participate in workshops on suture methods and animal restraint, and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts.
Beyond animal care, you will enjoy snorkeling and kayaking adventures in the Bahamian seas, and complete service-learning projects to improve animal welfare and support local education programs. This program offers a blend of skill-building, conservation, and adventure.
Location: Bahamas.
Cost: $5,280.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for two weeks in the summer.
June 21 - July 2.
July 5 - July 16.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply here!
In this study abroad program, you will have the opportunity to immerse in marine conservation while exploring the coastlines of the Peloponnese and the historic sites of Athens and Epidaurus. You will begin your journey in Athens, where you will visit iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and gain insights into the city’s ancient and modern heritage.
You will then travel to the Peloponnese to delve into marine conservation, learning about the vital role of Loggerhead sea turtles in marine ecosystems, and engage in hands-on activities such as snorkeling surveys to study seafloor coverage, beach cleanups to protect nesting sites, and workshops on rescuing injured sea turtles, practicing both on land and in the water. This program also offers the chance to kayak in search of the Sunken City, visit ancient theaters, and volunteer with an organization supporting Athens’ homeless community.
Location: Greece.
Cost: $5,899.
Program Dates: July 7 - July 18.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply here!
One more option - The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about. Our mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke, and LSE.
The program was founded by a Harvard & Oxford PhD who met as undergraduates at Harvard. The program is rigorous and fully virtual. We offer need-based financial aid for students who qualify. You can find the application in the brochure!
To learn more, you can reach out to our Head of Partnerships, Maya, at maya.novak-herzog@lumiere.education or go to our website.
Multiple rolling deadlines for JEP cohorts across the year, you can apply using this application link!
Disclaimer: The program above is not a traditional study abroad program, but allows international students to apply, and offers research with professors/PhD students from prestigious universities.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a Ph.D. student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.