15 Best Summer Study Abroad Programs in 2025

While many students choose to go overseas during the academic year, summer study abroad programs are popular, too. They vary in length, with many programs offering short-term options, making it easier to fit academics into your summer plans. Whatever your reasons for choosing summer, though, you can look forward to all the benefits of the studying abroad experience and using your summer break productively.

Location: Viterbo, Italy
Program length: 5 - 10 weeks
Price point: Starting from $5,980 for 5 weeks
What's included: tuition and fees, shared apartment. visa guidance, airport pick, 24-hour emergency support, field trips and activities

USAC's Italy: Viterbo - Intensive Italian Language, History, and the Arts program offers students the opportunity to take courses in journalism, history, art, environmental sciences, and more, while learning Italian in the gorgeous medieval university town of Viterbo, Italy. In addition to included field trips, students will also have the chance to travel to Southern Italy and enjoy activities such as sailing, horseback riding, hiking mountains and hitting the beaches. Through a mix of practical and sociocultural activities, you’ll learn about the country’s traditions and folklore and grow your knowledge far beyond the classroom!

✅ Pros:

• The program is tailored specifically for history, environmental sciences, art, and journalism majors.
• Includes both cultural and Italian language immersion experiences.

❌ Cons:

• Availability of certain courses depends on the term, so not all classes will be available during the summer.
• Limited interaction with Italian university students.

Locations: Barcelona, Spain
Program length: Starts at 4 weeks
Price point: Starting from $4,850 for 4 weeks
What's included: tuition, excursions, accommodation

CIEE's study abroad program in Barcelona, Spain offers students the opportunity to study a variety of subjects such as history, art, politics, urban culture, and more, while taking courses in English or Spanish. Outside the classroom, you have the option to live with a host family, allowing you to learn about local customs and improve your Spanish. With 90+ alumni reviews on Go Overseas, students rave about the friendships they made, the fun of studying in Barcelona, and personal growth they experienced!

✅ Pros:

• Can choose to live in a homestay, shared apartment, or dorm with other other students
• You can enjoy fun, organized activities weekly through CIEE, like attending a flamenco show or taking a day trip to Montserrat.

❌ Cons:

• Meals are not included in the residence halls and shared apartments. If you are in a homestay you will have breakfast and dinner with the host family, but may not have access to use the family's kitchen.
• Fast-paced academic schedule

Location: Oxford, England
Program length: 2 weeks
Price point: Starting from $7,000 for 2 weeks
What's included: tuition, accommodations, meals, field trips and activities

Oxford Royale Academy’s Summer Study Abroad program attracts students from all over the world. There, you’ll live in either a manor house or one of the University of Oxford’s colleges for the duration of the two-week courses. Subjects include everything from Engineering to Creative Writing and Chemistry to Archaeology, and there are also cultural and recreational activities to complement your studies.

✅ Pros:

• Programs are available for students ranging from age 8-25.
• Students from all over the globe intermix - with over 170 nationalities being represented in 2019.

❌ Cons:

• The program is relatively costly for being hosted in a single location and lasting a short duration.
• Some alum have mentioned that course load can feel heavy for the program length.

Location: Florence, Italy
Program length: 3 - 6 weeks
Price point: Starting from $5,300 for 3 weeks
What's included: tuition, accommodations, airport transfers, 24 hr support, travel insurance, field trips and activities

Join around 500 students from around the world at Florence University of the Arts (FUA). Students interested in studying in English can pick from a range of subjects, including Digital & Studio Arts, Literature & Creative Writing, and the Natural Sciences. FUA prides itself on providing stellar support to study abroad participants before, during, and after their time in Florence. This means that students will have help with applications and visas, housing, health insurance, and more.

✅ Pros:

• Program includes a "survival Italian" language class.
• SAI is known for its strong support in coordinating all aspects of the study abroad experience.

❌ Cons:

• While many English courses are taught, the options are limited.
• Reviews indicate program housing is relatively small.

Location: Florence, Milan, Rome, Venice
Program length: Options for summer, semester, or full academic year
Price point: Starting from $10,490 for 7 weeks
What's included: tuition and fees, shared apartment, meal vouchers, airport transfers, visa guidance, 24-hour emergency support, field trips, and activities

AIFS' study and/or intern abroad program in Italy offers the perfect getaway for students to improve their Italian language skills, study a traditional academic program, or specialize in an internship. Whether you're interested in cultural studies, luxury fashion, or architecture, you'll gain valuable theoretical and practical experience with AIFS.

Speaking Italian isn't required as programs are taught in English. Outside the classroom, students can embrace Italian culture, architecture, and gastronomy through guided walks, cooking classes, and other cultural excursions.

✅ Pros:

• Lots of travel opportunities outside of studying and interning.
• Students have a wide range of location options across Italy.

❌ Cons:

• Accommodation may not be that close to placement.
• The lessons are engaging but some participants have mentioned workload can be challenging during the adjustment period.

Location: Athens, Greece
Program length: 4 weeks
Price point: Starting from $4,500
What's included: tuition, accommodations, transportation, some meals, activities

College Year in Athens boasts experience-based opportunities for learning, helping you develop real-world skills and practical knowledge. The Study in Greece Summer Program makes the most of the country’s rich history, offering visits to archaeological excavation sites, picturesque islands, archaic amphitheatres, and more.

You’ll take one course during four-week sessions that consist of 60 contact hours, and then in your free time, you can enjoy a everything that Greece has to offer during this summer of Mediterranean bliss.

✅ Pros:

• Programs are short and content-dense, with 60 contacts spread across four weeks
• Classes are experience based

❌ Cons:

• The short duration means this is a fast-paced program with less time to travel outside of included learning activities.
• Athens is very hilly, so if you have mobility issues, it might be challenging to get around.

Location: Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Japan
Program length: 3 - 6 weeks
Price point: Starting from $2,750 for 3 weeks
What's included: accommodations, activities, airport transfer, meals

World Campus in Japan gives students a chance to take academic classes in English while immersing themselves in the local community. Students live with Japanese host families and integrate with community members to bridge cultural, political, and social understanding. Students in World Campus' Japan program come from over 15 different countries, allowing you to learn from your classmates both in and out of the classroom.

✅ Pros:

• There are various program lengths to choose from, including 3, 6, and 9 weeks.
• Program includes many culturally immersive activities.

❌ Cons:

• This program has an intense cadence of activities, so be prepared to be tired.
• There is limited language training to teach basic words and phrases.

Location: Iceland
Program length: 8 days
Price point: $4200
What's included: tuition, facility tours, accommodation, meals, transportation, excursions

Looking for an unforgettable way to spend your summer? The GREEN Program is an experiential education program that balances sustainability-focused coursework, exclusive industry exposure, and immersive excursions. In 8 days, you'll learn about how Iceland utilizes geothermal energy, learn the science behind renewable energy systems, and tick things off your bucket list such as glacier hiking, swimming in hot springs, and visiting a volcano crater.

✅ Pros:

• Exclusive access and private tours to Iceland's leading hydroelectric, geothermal, and biofuel facilities
• Networking opportunities during and after the program

❌ Cons:

• Busy schedule with little downtime
• Cost is expensive for it being a little over a week, but scholarships are available

Location: Fiji, Palau, Micronesia, Indonesia
Program length: 20 days
Price point: $7,670
What's included: accommodations, activities, equipment, meals

If you're looking for a unique, hands-on study abroad experience overseas, check out the Virgin Islands to Antigua - 20 Days program offered by Seamester. In this 20-day program, you'll sail 360 nautical miles, gain credits, and return home as a certified scuba diver.

More importantly, you'll also come back with a new sense of confidence and personal responsibility, new friends, and a set of skills that you can take with you beyond academics!

✅ Pros:

• This program will provide unique access to a diverse set of remote areas.
• Learning is experiential and part of the lifestyle on-board.

❌ Cons:

• Seasickness can be a genuine concern.
• Life on a ship requires significant work.

Location: Beijing, Shanghai, Harbin, China
Program length: 8 weeks
Price point: Starting from $8,190
What's included: tuition, on-campus accommodations in a dormitory, out-of-classroom activities

CET provides students with various language programs and internships throughout five Chinese cities. As Chinese is the most widely spoken language on Earth, CET Greater China offers students an intensive language immersion experience that will develop their written and spoken Chinese skills while earning course credit. With small class sizes and plenty of activities outside the classroom, students will gain a deep insight into Chinese culture while simultaneously improving their language skills.

✅ Pros:

• Many alumni mentioned making a ton of local friends, and you can even room with local students.
• One-on-one lessons and experiential learning activities are included.

❌ Cons:

• Expect hot and humid weather during the summer.
• The program’s intensive curriculum will require significant work.

Location: Worldwide
Program length: 4 weeks
Price point: Starting from $3,000
What's included: tuition, accommodation, excursions, most meals, domestic transportation, emergency, and in-country support staff

Therapy Abroad offers hands-on programs designed by clinicians, university professors, and public health professionals, designed for students looking to enhance their health science skills. By offering programs that prioritize immersive experiences and community service, Therapy Abroad has proven to be a valuable resource for those looking to develop their professional skillset in a practical setting.

Their commitment to excellence has earned Therapy Abroad recognition for their programs, including our very own Go Overseas Community Choice Awards, where they were acknowledged for their fun and memorable excursions.

✅ Pros:

• Exposure to a wide range of clinical experiences
• Culturally immersive and impactful excursions

❌ Cons:

• Not all meals are not included in program fees
• Advanced activity scheduling is limited

Location: Sussex, England
Program length: 3-6 weeks
Price point: Starting from $3,000
What's included: tuition, accommodations, activities, and gym membership

The University of Sussex undergraduate summer school program offers seven modules for students, from Business and Management and English Literature to Global Health and Medical Studies. Sussex is well known for its Humanities and Social Sciences field, with its Development Studies program being placed at number 1 globally in the QS World University Ranking in 2020.

Students also have access to campus social events and activities, and with being a short train ride to Brighton and an hour from London, you can easily venture for day trips to see more of England!

✅ Pros:

• Well-connected campus. Sussex is 10 minutes from Brighton & Hove and 1 hour by train from London
• Although they teach one module per session, students can apply for both sessions

❌ Cons:

• Meals are not included, but students are given access to a kitchen that is stocked with a range of cooking utensils, including pots and pans
• Some students found academic coursework challenging

Location: London, England
Program length: 3-6 weeks
Price point: Starting from $3,500
What's included: tuition, accommodations, excursions, airport pick up, activities, and in-country support staff

Join a cohort of international students that will quickly become lifelong friends as you spend your summer living and studying at the University of Roehampton. Students can choose from exciting courses, using the buzzing city of London as their classroom! University of Roehampton’s friendly and welcoming staff will also support you every step of the way, from airport pickup on arrival day to support services on campus.

✅ Pros:

• Guaranteed on-campus housing
• Get the best of both worlds: city and campus life

❌ Cons:

• The program length is too short, but students can opt to do both sessions for a total of 6 weeks
• Apart from the welcome meal, daily meals are not included; however, students have access to an equipment-stocked kitchen

Location: Brighton, England
Program length: 4 weeks
Price point: Starting from $4,070
What's included: tuition, accommodations, field trips, on-site gym, swimming pool, and student support

University of Brighton is a four-week intensive summer program within the British Education system and offers great options for students pursuing a degree in teaching and education. Students will have the opportunity to visit local schools, discuss pedagogical issues, and participate in seminars and workshops.

Their commitment to supporting students has earned the University of Brighton 2022 Go Overseas Community Choice Awards, where they were acknowledged for their support and fun through their memorable field trips.

✅ Pros:

• Opportunity to build lasting friendships
• Great exposure to the British education system for aspiring teachers

❌ Cons:

• Students say they wish to have more independent time to travel and take part in activities of interest to them
• Budget more money to spend on food

Location: Seville, Spain
Program length: 3-6 weeks
Price point: Starting from $3,525
What's included: tuition, accommodation, some activities, pre-departure support, airport pickup and orientation upon arrival in Spain

Live and learn in Seville with Adelante Abroad, where you'll have the opportunity to take your Spanish to the next level in the birthplace of Flamenco. Adelante Abroad offers two intensive programs for students in both English and Spanish. Their 3-week Contemporary Spanish Society & Culture is entirely taught in Spanish and is an excellent option for students who can speak and understand some Spanish.

✅ Pros:

• Options for classes taught in Spanish or English
• A 6-week combo session is available for candidates interested in staying longer

❌ Cons:

• Not all meals are not included in program fees
• The university is not walking distance, but there is a metro stop

Here's everything you need to know to prepare to study abroad.

Finding the right summer study abroad program for you will require you to do some research and establish your travel and academic goals.

As you search for programs, follow these useful tips:

• Give yourself plenty of time to choose a program, apply for scholarships, and save up.
• Consult your home university’s study abroad department.
• Set a realistic budget and search for programs that fit, with the help of scholarships and grants!
• Get your credit transfer pre-approved, or choose a program that has a relationship with your home university.
• Go beyond the program description and read real reviews from previous alum (we have thousands of these reviews right here at Go Overseas!)

Keep reading: How to Choose a Study Abroad Program

While the popularity of a destination does not equate to it being the best fit for you, certain countries stand out for being exceptional options for most students, making them some of the most popular. These include English speaking countries like Scotland, England, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as countries that offer language immersion opportunities like Spain, Japan, and South Korea.

Remember, just because a destination isn’t a primarily English-speaking country doesn’t inherently mean you can’t take classes in English, but always confirm this before enrolling!

Using your summer break to study abroad is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable international experiences, including cultural immersion and developing a broader perspective, without disrupting your course-load or graduation schedule. Some additional benefits are:

• The opportunity to gain course credits expeditiously
• Grow a diverse group of friends
• Participate in generally smaller classes
• Travel on a smaller budget than the equivalent semester or year program

Whatever your academic goals or interests, there is likely a summer study abroad program on this list to match them. These programs are indeed the best of the best, and you can feel more confident knowing that Go Overseas students have not only tried them but thrived in them. Have a great summer studying abroad!

Read next:

• The 10 Best Places to Study Abroad
• Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants to Apply for
• 9 Ways to Have the Best Study Abroad Experience