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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 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Fully immersive English programs 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.

Where will your Multi-Destination Year take you?

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.

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)

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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Language and Culture

Learning English abroad like never before with Kaplan

Why choose the Language and Culture program with Kaplan

Tailored programs to suit your requirements

Intensive

Intensive

Key facts

Semi-Intensive

Semi Intensive

Key Facts

Multi-Destination

Multi-Destination Year

Key Facts

TOEFL®

TOEFL® Exam Preparation

Key Facts

IELTS

IELTS

Key Facts

English for Academic Pathways

English for Academic Pathways

Key Facts

Business

Certificate in Business

Key Facts

Media + Technology

Certificate in Media and Technology

Key Facts

Communication + the Arts

Certificate in Communication and the Arts

Key Facts

Fully immersive English programs in Kaplan destinations

United Kingdom

USA

Canada

Ireland

What do Kaplan students think

Where will your Multi-Destination Year take you?

Nine months: North America Coast to Coast

Six months: European Contrasts

11 months: Ireland and Britain Circuit

Tips from our Academic Year students

Be local

Accents are the colorful mosaic of English

Bother your teachers

They love helping you, they really do!

Extras

Take advantage of every option available

Friends

Every person you meet is a new book!

Local cuisine

Every meal is a chance to use new words!

Touring

Visit every corner, explore the world!

Master English, reach your goals

Frequently asked questions about an Academic Year Abroad

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

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

Will Kaplan help me find accommodation during the course?

What does Kaplan do differently from other schools?

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

Can I move to a different program during my studies?

Contact our advisors

Your choice regarding cookies on this site

Why choose the Language and Culture program with Kaplan 