An ESL Gap Year, otherwise known as a sabbatical year, is a fully immersive language programme abroad for anybody who is looking to take a break from their routine and make the most out of it.

Rather than being restricted to a year, this programme can take place across any number of weeks, months or years depending on the time you have and where your studies take you. While this type of programme is often associated with the “gap” between graduation and employment, it can actually be adapted to a variety of situations, including a sabbatical break from work or school vacations.

A gap year is the biggest step that you can take in your language journey as it allows you to not just experience your host country, but to actually establish yourself and live the daily life of your new culture. A language gap year represents your best opportunity to break through your personal learning barriers and become fluent.

The choice of how to spend your gap year can be overwhelming at first, which is why we recommend that you start your planning by speaking directly to our advisors in a free consultation call. During this call, we’ll get to know you and assess your goals, needs, and current situation to pair you with the destination that best suits you.

Still unsure as to what type of Gap Year you’re looking for? Our team will help you compare the different options and ensure that your programme is tailor-made for you — from your ideal accommodation to your favourite activities. We understand you want to get the best return on investment possible from your trip, so we’ll advise you on the best ways to optimise your learning and return home with a higher language level than you could ever imagine! 

ESL can help you with the process of obtaining a visa, as this will depend on the country you plan on visiting and the length of your stay. Throughout your visa process, we will provide you with accurate, up-to-date advice on your chosen destination, but please note that you will be responsible for paying any visa fees.

The best part about an ESL Gap Year is that it’s tailor-made for you! Meaning it can be as long or as short as you need it to be. However, remember that time is a language learner’s best friend! It generally takes between 10 to 12 weeks to progress from one CEFR level to the next, so the more time you commit to your programme, the more ambitious your goals can be!

A lot of planning goes into a language course, that’s why it’s important to choose the right company to help you navigate it! With more than 25 years of experience and a 97% recommendation rate from our customers, booking your year abroad with ESL means leaving your trip in the right hands. Here are just some of the ways we’ll help you have the journey of a lifetime:

- You will have access to our portfolio of only the best language schools across the world, with guidance from our team as to which will best fit your goals.

- Aside from your lessons, we’ll make sure you have every aspect of your gap year prepared in detail, from your travel logistics to your accommodation and plenty of good tips to make the most of it.

- We will be by your side every step of the way: before, during and after your gap year.

- In addition to our best price guarantee, you’ll have access to exclusive discounts and offers to help you make the most of your travel budget.

Yes they are! Depending on the destination, type of course and duration of your course, we have special discounts for your gap year. Remember that we guarantee the best price of the market! Our advisors will provide you with all the information.