Unlock your potential with a college gap year

Take a bold step away from the classroom and live experiences that will pave the way for your future success!

How can I start?

A chance to redefine your journey

A gap year isn’t just a break—it’s your opportunity to dive into new experiences and learn all about yourself outside the classrooms. No matter if you’re planning to take a sabbatical during of after college, get ready to experience life in ways that textbooks can’t teach!

Emblematic feature of an Italian city, waiting to be discovered during an Italian language program in Italy
Emblematic feature of an Italian city, waiting to be discovered during an Italian language program in Italy

A clearer vision for your future

Leave your daily life behind, hit the reset button, and reflect on your goals and passions in a brand new environment. You’ll find out that stepping away from school provides you with more clarity and motivation. Plus, it’s an opportunity to create beautiful memories and live adventures that will shape your future!

Why should you consider a gap year?

From developing life skills to gaining new insights, a college gap year will shape your future in ways you never imagined!

LIFE SKILLS

You’ll become more resilient and independent, learn how to solve problems on the go, and come back as a more capable and confident person!

CULTURAL INSIGHTS

Learn about diverse cultures and reshape your worldview. You’ll get back as a more adaptable person, perfect  for our interconnected world.

ENHANCED RESUME

A gap year will add a unique dimension to your resume. You’ll showcase qualities, like adaptability and initiative, that employers love.

NEW LANGUAGE

Learn a new language adn enhance your communiticaion ability. These skills will open doors to new opportunities and global connections!

CAREER CLARITY

Gain new perspectives on your career path. It’s a great chance to reflect on whether your current role aligns with your long-term goals.

STRESS RELIEF

You’ll get the much-needed time to focus on self-care and mental well-being to return to work with renewed energy, creativity, and focus.

NEW SKILLS

Use this time to learn new skills—whether it’s a foreign language, problem solving, or leadership. You’ll be you more marketable when you return!

NETWORK GROWTH

A gap experience can lead to unexpected connections that will expand your global network, potentially opening doors to new opportunities.

Memories and newfound skills

Spend your mornings learning Italian with the best native teachers, stop for a slow lunch with your new friends and explore the country during afternoons and weekends. By developing real life skills and making unforgettable memories along the way, you’ll truly live the best of both worlds!

Emblematic feature of an Italian city, waiting to be discovered during an Italian language program in Italy

What do students think about us?

Find our what our participants have to say about their enriching experiences with us.

Hamish Sidgwick

4 months in Florence&Sestri Levante

The five stars from Trustpilot

As a student currently studying in Italy through Italianforawhile at the time of writing, I can testify that this is a fantastic program! If you are interested in studying Italian in Italy for a Gap Year experience, IFA is for you!

- verified by trustpilot

Greta Olson

8 months in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

I am extremely grateful for the entire experience. This is truly the best decision i have made for my life and future and it has only been a few months but i feel like i have grown so much here!

- verified by trustpilot

Joshua Marshall

10 months in Turin

The five stars from Trustpilot

Italianforawhile is the best company for traveling to Italy and feeling like a local. I recommend this to everyone! The staff is so helpful and can fix any hiccup that may come up.

- verified by trustpilot

Matthew Forte

4 months in Naples

The five stars from Trustpilot

I can't even express what a wonderful time I'm having in Napoli. The people are very kind and welcoming and it's very easy to meet people and make friends from all over the world. If you're on the fence about coming to Italy, just go for it.

- verified by trustpilot

Guillermo Ibarra

1 month in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

My experience with Italianforawhile has been amazing! From the onboarding, everyone was very helpful and friendly. The teachers are awesome and the people I’ve met have quickly become friends.

- verified by trustpilot

Stephanie Smith

12 months in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

This has been an amazing experience for me. Although intensive, I didn’t feel overwhelmed because the instructor team, the trips, and the overall program is fun and interesting! Within a few short months I’m able to feel like a local!

- verified by trustpilot

Klara Teubner

1 month in Florence

The five stars from Trustpilot

La mia esperienza è stata meravigliosa! I recommend it to anyone who wants to explore Italy without having to worry about anything other than picking the right city. They take care of the rest: accommodation, school, weekend trips.

- verified by trustpilot

Jessica Odelli

3 months in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

From first contact their service has been super helpful and professional. They helped me decide where to live and organised a cultural program that allowed me to make friends and really experience everything that Italy has to offer.

- verified by trustpilot

Hamish Sidgwick

4 months in Florence&Sestri Levante

The five stars from Trustpilot

As a student currently studying in Italy through Italianforawhile at the time of writing, I can testify that this is a fantastic program! If you are interested in studying Italian in Italy for a Gap Year experience, IFA is for you!

Greta Olson

8 months in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

I am extremely grateful for the entire experience. This is truly the best decision i have made for my life and future and it has only been a few months but i feel like i have grown so much here!

Joshua Marshall

10 months in Turin

The five stars from Trustpilot

Italianforawhile is the best company for traveling to Italy and feeling like a local. I recommend this to everyone! The staff is so helpful and can fix any hiccup that may come up.

Matthew Forte

4 months in Naples

The five stars from Trustpilot

I can't even express what a wonderful time I'm having in Napoli. The people are very kind and welcoming and it's very easy to meet people and make friends from all over the world. If you're on the fence about coming to Italy, just go for it.

Guillermo Ibarra

1 month in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

My experience with Italianforawhile has been amazing! From the onboarding, everyone was very helpful and friendly. The teachers are awesome and the people I’ve met have quickly become friends.

Jessica Odelli

3 months in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

From first contact their service has been super helpful and professional. They helped me decide where to live and organised a cultural program that allowed me to make friends and really experience everything that Italy has to offer.

Klara Teubner

1 month in Florence

The five stars from Trustpilot

La mia esperienza è stata meravigliosa! I recommend it to anyone who wants to explore Italy without having to worry about anything other than picking the right city. They take care of the rest: accommodation, school, weekend trips.

Stephanie Smith

12 months in Milan

The five stars from Trustpilot

This has been an amazing experience for me. Although intensive, I didn’t feel overwhelmed because the instructor team, the trips, and the overall program is fun and interesting! Within a few short months I’m able to feel like a local!

Eve Falbo

1 month in Sestri Levante

The five stars from Trustpilot

Traveling to a new country to learn a new language can feel overwhelming, but IFA supported me every step of the way. I’m so grateful for their constant encouragement and guidance. Highly recommend to anyone considering learning Italian!

Begin your adventure:
2026 programs are open now

Take the first step towards an unforgettable journey!

Begin now

A program for everyone

From short immersive experiences to extended adventures, each of our programs offers unique opportunities for personal growth and cultural exploration.

IFA SPRINT

Starting from €760

Up to 3 weeks of language immersion while enjoying a life-changing cultural experience.

IFA DISCOVERY

Starting from €2,240

1 to 3 months of Italian language and culture immersion discovering hidden gems and the local cuisine.

IFA SEMESTER

Starting from €4,550

4 to 7 months to deepen your Italian knowledge and immerse yourself in the Italian daily life.

IFA GAP YEAR

Starting from €7,550

8 to 12 months to discover Italy in its most authentic form, build new friendships and develop vital skills.

Ready for your gap year?

Fill out the form to receive more information about our programs and schedule a free call with our gap year counselors.

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Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about learning Italian in Italy and Italianforawhile's programs.
Can I defer my studies to participate in the gap year?

Many colleges allow students to defer their studies for a gap year, recognizing the value of taking time off for personal growth, cultural experiences, and skill development. However, policies on deferral can vary by institution, so it’s crucial to check with your college advisor to understand their specific requirements and procedures.

Is it possible to earn university credits?
Some of our programs are designed to offer the opportunity to earn university credits. However, the availability of credits may depend on the specific destination and language course. It’s important to consult with our gap year counselors to get detailed information about which destinations and courses provide credit options.
I am enrolled in an online college. Can I participate in the gap year program?
Yes, you can participate in the programs while enrolled in an online college. With proper planning, it is indeed feasible to balance your online coursework with your gap year activities. However, keep in mind the time zone difference; you'll likely attend your online classes in the afternoon after your Italian courses. It's also important to discuss the topic with your college to ensure that you’re allowed to follow classes from another country and that your schedule and commitments align.
Can a gap year improve my resume?
Absolutely. A gap year can and will enhance your resume by showcasing international experience, language skills, and cultural adaptability, which are highly valued by employers. By immersing yourself in a new environment, you develop important qualities like independence and problem-solving and, overall, the experiences you’ll have during your gap year can create a compelling narrative that highlights your unique skills and perspectives, making you a more attractive candidate in the job market.