PROJECT INTRODUCTION
This project is an English language training program starting in the U.S. Experience learning English in the charming coastal city of Santa Barbara on the West Coast of the U.S. Whether you are a complete beginner or someone looking to upgrade your English skills, you will achieve your desired results through classes suited to your level.
Experience the most beautiful coastline in Europe right here in the U.S.! Santa Barbara, often referred to as the Riviera of America, features an expansive coastline resembling the Mediterranean. Enjoy beach volleyball with friends on the white sands, rent a bike to ride along the coast, and surf the waves at the many surfing spots. As Santa Barbara becomes a part of your daily life, your English skills will rapidly improve.
The school participants will attend is an educational institution with over 80 years of history in language education. It offers classes at all levels to meet students' needs and strives to help students gain confidence through their studies.
Moreover, the school in Santa Barbara has fewer Korean students compared to other U.S. cities, so you will have the opportunity to meet friends from various nationalities. (As of 2022, major nationalities include China, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Japan, with Korea at 4%, and Germany, France, etc.) You will have the chance to learn and experience diverse cultures from around the world while studying English.
Dream of expanding your horizons with friends from around the globe and enjoy the joy of achieving your dreams!
Santa Barbara, where the sun shines 365 days a year, offers not only pleasant weather but also friendly and warm people. With its small-town atmosphere, the city is known for its kindness and safety. It was ranked 7th among the best places to live in the U.S. (as of 2021), and has a significantly lower crime rate compared to other cities in California.
Additionally, due to its small size, convenience facilities such as cafes, supermarkets, banks, and post offices are located within a 5-minute walk, ensuring a comfortable daily life. The city’s relaxed Southern California vibe allows for a variety of activities like hiking, skateboarding, biking, yachting, and surfing, making each day an adventure. Start a joyful and safe daily life in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara, located on the West Coast of the U.S., is a central hub for traveling to famous large cities in the U.S. It is only a 2-hour drive to the City of Angels, LA, and a 1-hour flight to Las Vegas, known for its dazzling entertainment, San Francisco with its numerous landmarks, and San Diego with the world’s largest zoo.
Explore U.S. cities with completely different charms from Santa Barbara! Round-trip flights to most nearby cities can be purchased for around 200-300 USD (as of 2022). Weekly trips will enrich your American experience and provide various opportunities to apply the English you’ve learned in class to real-life situations. Look forward to growing English skills and enjoying your travels!
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
This project is a language training program for studying English in Santa Barbara, a coastal city on the West Coast of the U.S. Start your enjoyable study experience in Santa Barbara, where the European charm is abundant!
Additional Information
Morning Timetable | |
09:00 ~ 10:30 | Class |
10:30 ~ 10:45 | Break |
10:45 ~ 12:15 | Class |
* The above schedule is an example for reference.
English Proficiency - 0 Stars
|
* Detailed participant reviews can be found on Gap Year Story (click).
* More participant reviews are available at the bottom of the project page under "Participant Reviews."
SUPPORT
Local Orientation | Online Orientation | Online Consultation | Certificate of Completion |
KGY Certification | Pre-Departure Care | KGY Consultation | KGY Mission |
24hr Emergency Care | Flight Ticket Booking Assistance | Real-Time Consultation Service | KGY Note Book |
Project Registration and Participation Fee | Gap Year Mission Scholarship | OT Materials | English Group Classes |
Not Included
* Please make flight and transportation reservations after confirming project participation and departure schedule.
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
The institution, with a belief that language learning enriches personal life, has been dedicated to providing educational programs that awaken students' potential. Established in 1938, it boasts over 80 years of history and tradition, offering an optimal environment for students.
Located in the quaint downtown of Santa Barbara, the institution is close to the beach and conveniently accessible, making it easy to get around. Start your enjoyable English learning journey in Santa Barbara with its open skies and beautiful ocean views.
Message from the Local Coordinator
We are committed to satisfying students' curiosity, helping them learn a new language, explore beautiful Santa Barbara, and create unforgettable memories while achieving their future goals. We are continually evolving to meet students' needs, and we hope you create the best memories with us.
ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
Accommodation is an additional option. You can choose your preferred lodging option based on your lifestyle and preferences. Choose the accommodation that best suits you to enjoy your time in Santa Barbara even more!
■ Student Dormitory
Single Room / Shared Bathroom / Basic Bedding / Wi-Fi / Shared Spaces such as Kitchen, Lounge, and Pool |
Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, you can experience the essence of Californian life. It is close to restaurants, shopping centers, parks, and beaches, allowing you to enjoy Santa Barbara life comfortably. Make unforgettable memories by sharing experiences and thoughts with friends from around the world.
* Additional fees may apply for check-in after 10 PM.
■ Homestay
Single Room / 1 Meal per Day (Breakfast) / Shared Bathroom |
This accommodation option allows you to stay with carefully selected families and experience local culture up close. You can naturally improve your language skills by conversing with family members in a comfortable environment. You will be placed in homes that have hosted various students, starting your Santa Barbara experience in a warm and understanding environment. The school is about 45 to 90 minutes away by public transport.
* Meal options are available separately. Please contact us for additional options. (Contact: koreagapyear@gmail.com)
* Additional fees may apply for check-in after 10 PM.
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
ㅣ Location: Santa Barbara, USA
Santa Barbara, a coastal city on the American West Coast, boasts a Mediterranean climate and is often referred to as America's Mediterranean. Having once been under Spanish rule, the city exudes a unique Spanish charm with its white-walled and red-roofed buildings scattered throughout. Enjoy the relaxed and leisurely pace of life in this charming city!
ㅣRecommended Travel Destinations
01 Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf, the oldest wooden pier in California, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Santa Barbara. Walking along the pier, you can hear the creaking of the wooden planks. Many restaurants known for their fresh seafood are located here, so enjoy a delicious meal with an abundance of ocean flavor!
02 Solvang
Solvang, a small town located about an hour from Santa Barbara, is known as "Denmark in America." The town was founded in the early 1910s by Danish immigrants. Most of the buildings in the town are built in Danish style, giving you a sense of being in Europe. There are many shops selling Danish bread and desserts, and you can tour the entire town in about 2 hours.
03 Disneyland
Disneyland, filled with dreams and romance, awaits you! Located about a 2-hour drive from Santa Barbara to LA, it is an ideal destination for a weekend trip. At Disneyland, everyone, young and old, can return to their childhood wonder and enjoy a magical experience.
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
■ This project starts every Monday.
■ The minimum participation period for this project is 1 week.
■ The costs below include registration fees, tuition, and textbook fees.
Duration | Participation Fee |
1 week | 1,370,000 KRW |
2 weeks | 2,090,000 KRW |
3 weeks | 2,810,000 KRW |
4 weeks | 3,530,000 KRW |
5 weeks | 4,100,000 KRW |
6 weeks | 4,790,000 KRW |
7 weeks | 5,480,000 KRW |
8 weeks | 6,170,000 KRW |
9 weeks | 6,860,000 KRW |
10 weeks | 7,550,000 KRW |
11 weeks | 8,240,000 KRW |
12 weeks | 8,480,000 KRW |
■ Eligibility and Qualifications
■ Gap Year Mission Scholarship (▶ Learn more)
■ Installment Payment Guide
For those who are unable to pay in full, you can prepay a deposit of 500,000 KRW and pay the remaining balance within 2 weeks. Once the deposit is paid, the process of confirming your participation will begin, based on the deposit date, to check availability and participation slots. It’s important to secure your spot quickly for your desired date and duration! (Non-refundable upon confirmation of participation)
* However, if the start date is near, the payment schedule may vary depending on the situation.
■ Early Bird Discount and Urgent Application Guide
We recommend that you apply for all gap year projects at least 3 months before the start date to allow time for proper procedures and preparation. As a general rule, applications should be made no later than 2 months before the start date. However, in case of urgent situations or if you need to participate in a project quickly, we offer an urgent application service with an additional fee to assist with faster processing.
* While we assist with expedited procedures, please note that basic processing times are still required due to communication with local organizations and confirmation processes. Since the procedures for urgent applicants are the same as for regular participants, those applying for the urgent service must cooperate with the Korea Gap Year team.
** If you apply more than 180 days in advance of the start date, you can receive an early bird discount.
*** The urgent application service can be selected from the options above. For inquiries about the urgent application service, please contact us at koreagapyear@gmail.com.
- What’s provided: Automatic application for the Gap Year Mission and Note / Full OT materials provided as soon as participation is confirmed / Additional staff assigned for urgent cases / Assistance with preparing documents if needed * If you’re having trouble calculating the dates, check out Naver’s date calculator >> Go to Naver Date Calculator |
**Note: For extremely urgent applications, there may be no availability depending on the local situation. Refunds will proceed according to Gap Year refund policy. Any issues arising from the participant’s lack of cooperation will be the participant’s responsibility.