The benefits of student travel
When your child returns home with enthusiastic stories and pictures of an incredible time abroad, you’ll see the immediate impact the experience has had. However, the most significant and enduring effects may not emerge until later, as you see your child tackle challenges with newfound confidence, approach studies with more enthusiasm and maturity, and demonstrate more sensitivity to other people.
Newfound confidence
After standing inside the Colosseum, walking along China’s Great Wall or simply ordering lunch in the local language, students can’t help but see new possibility in the world, in their abilities and in their future. In addition to gaining greater cultural sensitivity and an international perspective on their studies, students return home feeling more confident and independent—qualities that stay with them throughout their academic, professional and personal lives.
Higher grades
When students travel with EF, they’re not just learning about other places, cultures and languages, they’re living it. Whether learning about Greek mythology at the Acropolis or discussing ecosystems in a Costa Rican rainforest, these hands-on experiences allow students to truly connect with their studies in new ways. EF tours pique students’ intellectual curiosity, translating into increased academic success upon their return.
Stronger college applications
Because so many U.S. colleges appreciate the value of global awareness and now place an increased emphasis on international perspectives within their curricula, students with international experience have a competitive edge when applying to colleges. Plus, because EF is the only fully accredited international tour company, students can even earn high school and college credit while on tour.
Enhanced career prospects
EF tours often inspire travelers to embark on international careers. Past travelers have become translators at the United Nations, diplomats in Washington, D.C., and international executives. Regardless of your child’s professional ambitions, the EF tour experience instills new confidence in students, enhances students’ ability to work with a variety of people and encourages students to perceive new challenges from a broader perspective—skills that can enhance a person’s career no matter what the industry.
Friendships that last a lifetime
Students who travel on an EF tour develop lasting friendships with fellow travelers. Whether they’ve been friends for years or meet on the tour bus, friends who share in the life-changing experience of traveling abroad make special connections that often endure into adulthood.
Why EF?
Safety: Our top priority
EF has hundreds of offices in more than 50 countries around the world that are in
constant contact with our North American headquarters in Boston and Denver. There’s
always local EF staff available for support wherever your child travels in the world.
In addition, EF offers an exclusive
All Inclusive Insurance plan specifically designed
to meet the needs of students traveling with EF. This insurance covers your child
in the event of on-tour medical expenses, baggage delays and emergency tour interruption,
if a student must leave a tour prematurely.
Support
At EF, we have a dedicated customer service staff available for all parent and student questions.
Guaranteed lowest prices
We believe everyone should have the opportunity to travel. That’s why we guarantee the best price—without sacrificing our commitment to value. And to make it even easier, EF’s exclusive
EF's monthly payment plan allows you to pay for your child’s tour in convenient monthly installments—as little as $100 a month.
Educational focus
EF is accredited, so that students can earn high school credit by traveling with us. In addition, we work with prestigious names in education like Apple, PBS, the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board and Model United Nations-USA.
Financial Security
EF is a member of USTOA, the professional association representing the tour operator industry, so students’ money is secured by our $1 million consumer protection plan. Our Peace of Mind program allows groups to change travel plans up to 35 days before a tour with no cancellation fee.