Language and Culture

Learn, live, explore with this Academic Year Abroad program.

Learning English abroad like never before with Kaplan

Transform your English skills into fluency as you embark on a program designed to help you master the language while immersing yourself in one (or more) exciting destinations around the world.

During this enriching gap year, you’ll benefit from the insights of guest speakers who cover a wide range of real-world subjects. You’ll also be part of a truly international class that will enjoy English workshops and a full calendar of visits to local attractions.

Gain the skills, confidence, and cultural understanding to communicate effectively.

Download our dedicated brochure

Why choose the Language and Culture program with Kaplan  

fastest-english-progression

Experience the fastest English progression in the language learning industry, trusted by students from all over the world 

expert-academic-support

Receive expert academic support tailored to your goals. Become fluent in reading, writing, listening, and speaking 

plus-85-years-experience

Benefit from 85+ years of experience helping students succeed. We train 1.2 million students every year 

flexible-program-durations

Choose flexible program durations of 6, 9, or 11 months, and immerse yourself in vibrant English-speaking cities

exciting-adventure

Make your journey an exciting adventure by switching destinations every three months with our Multi-Destination Year option

12-months-access-to-k-online-solid-purple

Enjoy 12 months access to K+ Online, attend exclusive guest talks, and get special offers on housing option

Tailored programs to suit your requirements

Do you want to improve your speaking confidence, ace an academic exam or get ready for the professional world? Tailor your program and start your academic adventure.

*Courses are subject to regulatory approval/accreditation

Student raising her hand to speak in class

Most popular

Intensive

Perfect your speaking, reading, writing, listening, grammar, while building a big working vocabulary.

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Intensive

Want to master every aspect of English? This program sharpens your skills in speaking, reading, writing, listening, grammar, and pronunciation, while also expanding your vocabulary for effective communication in real-world settings.   

 

Key facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 35 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours    

  • 8 Lessons of Specialist Skills = 6 hours    

  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours

  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: All Kaplan schools excluding London 30+

Minimum age: 16 Entry level: Elementary to Advanced English

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Teacher leading a casual discussion in a diverse classroom group setting with engaged students sitting in a circle on the floor

Semi-Intensive

Build a strong foundation of the English language while also having enough time to explore your chosen city. 

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Semi Intensive

Build a strong foundation of the English language while also having enough free time to explore your chosen location and have fun with friends! Take part in our social activities, immerse yourself in the city, and make the most of this adventure!

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 27 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours

  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours

  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: All Kaplan schools excluding London 30+

Minimum age: 16

Entry level: Elementary to Advanced English

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Two friends laughing at a train station

Multi-Destination

Choose to study in a new Kaplan city every three months and turn your language journey into an adventure!

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Multi-Destination Year

Students travel the globe to create their own dream Academic Year Abroad by combining two, three or four locations, each destination with a minimum of 12 weeks.

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Destination available: All Kaplan schools excluding London 30+

Minimum age: 16

Entry level: Elementary to Advanced English

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

High School Students Taking Exam

TOEFL®

Work with expert teachers in targeted lessons to pass the TOEFL® exam and gain access to life in North America. 

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TOEFL®

Gain access to work or university life in North America with the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL®). This English language proficiency test is required for access to numerous colleges and institutions across US and Canada. Choose this program and you’ll feel ready to ace the exam, with targeted lessons, practice tests and expert teachers who’ve helped numerous students pass.

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 35 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours    
  • 8 Lessons of Specialist Skills on TOEFL® = 6 hours    
  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours
  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: New York, Boston, Toronto

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: B1

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Female college student taking test at desk in classroom

IELTS

Strengthen the 4 language skills needed to ace the IELTS exam—required by institutions across the UK. 

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IELTS

Strengthen the four key language skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—needed for you to ace the IELTS: an important language proficiency exam required by many universities and companies across the UK and Ireland! During this program, you will take part in highly-focused lessons covering each section of the exam, as well as learning test-taking strategies that will have you pass IELTS in record time! 

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 35 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours    

  • 8 Lessons of Specialist Skills on IELTS = 6 hours    

  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours

  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: Bournemouth, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Oxford, Dublin, Toronto, Vancouver

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: B1

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Happy college students studying together

English for Academic Pathways

Build the language skills you need to succeed academically. That’s how to score top marks! 

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English for Academic Pathways

Want to be completely prepared for success in an academic setting? This program is ideal if you want to develop essential language skills and test strategies for academic success while preparing to achieve top results in an official English exam.

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 35 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours    
  • 8 Lessons of Specialist Skills = 6 hours    
  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours
  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: Toronto, New York, Vancouver, Boston, Santa Barbara, Cambridge, Bournemouth, Oxford

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: B1

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Business

Being fluent English is a game-changer, it can double your market value in industries such as tech and business.

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Certificate in Business

Being fluent English is a game-changer—it can double your market value in industries such as tech and business, and open doors to international companies and global opportunities. Take your career further with Kaplan’s English for Business program, with targeted modules on workplace communication, networking, and management among others. You will build the confidence and language skills you need to thrive in business and stand out as a globally prepared and career-ready candidate!  

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 35 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours    
  • 8 Lessons of Specialist Skills on Business = 6 hours    
  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours
  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Liverpool, London, Dublin

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: B1

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Diverse group of college students studying IT together at table in school library and using laptop with code lines on screen

Media + Technology

Into creativity, social media & AI? This is for you!

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Certificate in Media and Technology

In today’s fast-paced digital world, strong communication skills and media literacy are a must. If you are passionate about creative expression, social media, and the future of AI, then this is the program for you.

Step confidently into the future with our structured modules that explore the intersection of technology, digital media, and the modern workplace. 

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 35 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours    

  • 8 Lessons of Specialist Skills on Media and Technology = 6 hours   

  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours

  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: New York, Dublin, Toronto, London

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: B1

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Sits by the table with laptops. Young business people in formal clothes working in the office

Communication + the Arts

This is the perfect opportunity to kick-start your career in media!

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Certificate in Communication and the Arts

Persuasive storytelling forms the foundation of many marketing and media jobs. In this program, you will focus on modules that will show you how you can perfect these skills using the English language. From writing and delivering speeches to analyzing music and designing digital campaigns, this is the perfect opportunity to kick-start your career in media and beyond.

 

Key Facts

Duration: 6, 9, 11 months

Start Dates: 5 January 2026, 30 March 2026, 22 June 2026, 21 September 2026, 9 November 2026

Timetable: 35 lessons per week

  • 20 Lessons of Language Foundation = 15 hours    

  • 8 Lessons of Specialist Skills on Communications and the Arts = 6 hours

  • 3 Sessions of K+ Extra = 2.25 hours

  • 4 Language in Action Workshops = 3 hours

Destination available: New York, London, Los Angeles, Toronto

Minimum age: 16 

Entry level: B1

Class size: Average 12, maximum 15

Fully immersive English in Kaplan destinations

With over 20 destinations to choose from—ranging from vibrant global capitals to smaller but hugely welcoming communities—you can focus on your academic or professional goals through a semester or even a full academic year abroad. 
Wherever you go, we promise the time will fly by! 

What do Kaplan students think

If you are still wondering whether a fully immersive Academic Year Abroad with Kaplan is right for you, listen to what our students have to say. Their stories might inspire your own journey to sucess.

Example Multi-Destination Year itineraries?

Do you want to improve your speaking confidence, ace an academic exam or get ready for the professional world? Tailor your program and start your academic adventure.

Student looking at the view of New York

Nine months: North America Coast to Coast

  • 12 weeks in New York City
    Immerse yourself in world-class culture, art, and business while building your English in the heart of the Big Apple
  • 12 weeks in Vancouver
    Experience Canada’s West Coast with stunning natural landscapes and a relaxed urban lifestyle
  • 12 weeks in Boston 
    Discover the academic heritage and historic charm of this iconic East Coast city, home to top universities

Six months: European Contrasts

  • 12 weeks in Berlin
    Embrace the energy of Germany’s capital, where historic landmarks meet cutting-edge art, music, and nightlife
  • 12 weeks in Montreux
    Study French in a peaceful lakeside town nestled in the Swiss Alps, known for its breathtaking scenery and relaxed pace
Students enjoying Montreux, sightseeing activity
Kaplan English School London - Photo Gallery 16

11 months: Ireland and Britain Circuit

  • 12 weeks in Dublin
    Begin your journey in Ireland’s lively capital, full of literary heritage, friendly locals, and a thriving music scene
  • 12 weeks in Liverpool
    Discover a northern English city with a strong cultural identity, maritime history, and iconic musical legacy
  • 12 weeks in London
    Dive into one of the world’s most dynamic cities, where you’ll find endless opportunities for learning, culture, and connection
  • 12 weeks in Edinburgh
    End your year in Scotland’s majestic capital, a city of festivals, castles, and academic excellence

Tips from our Academic Year students

Your life changes when you invest in yourself by learning a new language abroad. Hear from other Kaplan students who have already travelled and studied on our Academic Year Abroad program.

Be local

Accents are the colorful mosaic of English

It is so helpful to apply your knowledge in real-life situations, so try to speak as much as possible. Realizing that every person has an accent and yet we are all connected through English makes it so much easier. Tip from Valerie (French Student in Vancouver) 

Bother your teachers

They love helping you, they really do!

Don’t be shy, Kaplan teachers love interacting with you during and after classes. Their goal is to help you achieve your goals! On a long program like this, they also become your friends. Tip from Sana (Japanese Student in Boston)

Extras

Take advantage of every option available

I chose an Intensive and joined all the clubs and extra activities, it was the best to practice all I could and meet different people. Tip from Jaime (Colombian student in Edinburgh)

Friends

Every person you meet is a new book!

I tried to meet as many people from different countries as possible, so I could practice my English and learn about other types of cultures. Tip from Emre (Turkish student in Chicago)

Local cuisine

Every meal is a chance to use new words!

Lunch and dinner are typically fun if you choose a residence or a host family. It’s the perfect time to sit and speak to locals or friends and every day there is something new to learn! Tip from Basil (Student from UAE at Kaplan London)

Touring

Visit every corner, explore the world!

I studied for 8 months and visited new places every weekend. I filled a videoblog with great stories and learned so much about the culture along the way! Tip from Adriana (Brazilian student at Kaplan Los Angeles)

Master English, reach your goals

We have a program for every need. Select yours and begin your journey to success!

Frequently asked questions about an Academic Year Abroad

Can I start this immersive course at any level of English proficiency?

Our Language and Culture program allows students from every level, from elementary to advanced, to enrol. Every quarter you’ll be improving your English and every 10 weeks a level test will take place, to ensure you are advancing at the right pace.  

Can I choose any destination within the Multi-Destination Year? 

Yes, if your goals are to improve your English and connect with local communities, this is your course and you can start in any city and change, without any curriculum impact, every 12 weeks. If you decide to study for 11 months, you’ll be able to explore up to four different cities in the USA, the UK, Canada and Ireland.  

Will Kaplan help me find accommodation during the course?

Indeed. This course offers a special accommodation package for you, so you can not to worry over your Academic Year Abroad. You can choose from host families or our residences, all carefully vetted and following industry standards. Contact our team to discuss your preferences.  

What does Kaplan do differently from other schools? 

At Kaplan, we’re committed to offering the fastest progression in language learning. We assess your English every 10 weeks, and if you haven't reached a new level, we offer you additional English lessons at no extra cost. 

We follow the internationally recognized Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), ensuring that our language levels are not just arbitrary—they’re official and standardized. 

Our expert teachers provide personalized guidance, supporting you every step of the way as you prepare for your next academic or professional milestone. 

Through our Academic Year Abroad Program, you'll enjoy a welcome tour to help you settle in, plus an exclusive graduation ceremony. You'll also benefit from free access to morning lessons, 12 months of K+ Online English after graduation, special accommodation packages, guest speaker insights, dedicated workshops, and much more. 

Kaplan opens doors to prestigious universities worldwide and connects you with companies around the globe, giving you both academic and professional opportunities. 

We’re proud of our excellent NPS and Student Satisfaction scores, with an average of 97% across all our schools. 

Since 1938, our mission has remained clear: to help you succeed in achieving your goals.

What’s the difference between Academic Year Abroad, the Kaplan Language and Culture Program, and a Gap Year program?

Kaplan’s Academic Year Abroad offers five starting dates throughout the year, ensuring that students join a dedicated cohort and progress together, celebrating their growth and graduation as a community. This program helps students make lifelong friends while staying on track. The start dates are in January, March, June, September, and November and the program length is 6, 9 or 11 months. Download our brochure to learn more.

A Gap Year experience provides more flexibility, allowing you to start any Monday throughout the year. While you'll still take a level test to ensure you're placed in the right class, the program offers more freedom in terms of timing. Although both the Gap Year and Academic Year Abroad programs include similar English lessons, the Academic Year Abroad program offers additional benefits, such as accommodation packages, special tours, visits, certificates, and access to prestigious universities, among others. Both programs are taught by experienced teachers who will help you achieve fluency in English.

Can I move to a different program during my studies?

Yes. Upgrading to a University Preparation or Professional Preparation program is possible; details and pricing are available upon request. 

Contact our advisors

Get friendly and professional advice about our programs, schools and prices. Find out more or book now. Our consultants speak many different languages and are ready to help you.
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