Project Introduction
Studying English from elementary, middle, and high school through university and even after entering the workforce! However, due to exam-oriented English education, many of us find ourselves unable to greet foreigners properly when we meet them. That's our reality. You have so many things you want to do—like overseas internships, volunteering abroad, backpacking trips, making foreign friends—but you hesitate due to the barrier of English. This project is a practical conversational-focused language study program in the Philippines that will turn your hesitation into excitement. To improve your conversational skills, naturally, spending ample time speaking in English is undoubtedly the best approach, right? Try using English on various topics in a Philippine language school with fewer Koreans and many one-on-one lessons!
1. Can It Get Any Safer Than This?!
Local language schools are selected based on prioritizing participants' educational effectiveness and safety. The organizer personally visited the Philippines to inspect various language schools, meticulously reviewing about 200 criteria including instructors, curriculum, facilities, and more. Furthermore, rigorous management of local institutions is ensured through regular monitoring and ongoing consumer satisfaction surveys. Dormitories where participants stay during the project are located within the language school campus, ensuring a safe living environment. With GapYear, you can study English in the Philippines with peace of mind.
2. Boost Your Study Abroad Experience with Diverse Nationalities - Double the Satisfaction!
To learn English, you've invested time and money to travel abroad, so what if everyone you meet there is Korean? Typically, when you attend a language school in the Philippines, you're likely to meet many Koreans to the point where it might be confusing whether you're in Korea or abroad. However, institutions where projects are conducted ensure an environment where you can use English in daily life alongside students from various nationalities, so you can set aside such concerns! If you're determined, you can definitely enhance your English skills in the Philippines.
Unlike other regions, language courses in the Philippines focus primarily on 1:1 conversation lessons, making them ideal for Koreans who are strong in vocabulary, grammar, and reading but weaker in speaking. Moreover, living in dormitories with international friends allows you to naturally practice the English you learn in everyday situations. Why not take this opportunity to fully experience the effectiveness of language study abroad?
3. Study in the Philippines and Move Beyond Beginner English
Studying abroad in the Philippines can greatly boost your confidence in English! Even those who know nothing about English can converse in the language after participating. Why is that? It's because individual student management is meticulously carried out, ensuring that even those who lack confidence in successfully completing a language course alone can experience a worthwhile study abroad. Whether you struggle with self-management, irregular lifestyles, or laziness, once you go, your English skills will improve! Through class time and leisure activities with friends, you'll visibly see your conversational skills improving, highlighting the effectiveness of the learning process. It's highly recommended for those who want to confidently converse in basic English.
※ Note: When you first arrive in the Philippines, you might feel overwhelmed by the rigorous curriculum. Focused during classes for the first week, and you'll quickly adapt. Soon enough, you'll have fun studying English with friends! |
Location | Strength | Weakness |
Baguio |
- The language study costs are lower compared to other cities. - You can focus solely on studying English - The cost of living is relatively affordable |
- Undeveloped area within the Philippines - Becomes boring after adapting for 2-3 weeks - Difficult to enjoy affordable water activities - Located 5 hours away from the airport and lacks good language school facilities |
Manila |
- Manila, the capital of the Philippines, offers a wide range of attractions. - It's a place where many prestigious universities in the Philippines are concentrated. - You can see high-rise buildings of 10 floors or more |
- Area in the Philippines with frequent incidents - Heavy traffic congestion and prevalent pickpocketing - Developed shopping and nightlife scenes making it easy to fall into temptation |
Cebu | - The safest area within the Philippines
- Plenty of modern resort-style buildings, language schools with amenities like swimming pools and gyms - Affordable water activities - Higher proportion of foreigners compared to other areas |
- As a globally renowned resort destination, it's easy to neglect studies. - There's a risk of overspending due to numerous attractions. - The weather tends to be hot. |
Here's why Gap Year recommends Cebu for language study in the Philippines!
Gap Year differs from traditional language schools by aiming not only to improve participants' English proficiency but also to enhance their self-esteem, confidence, and other personal qualities. We have visited the Philippines numerous times to find places that prioritize safety, offer comprehensive language school curricula, and provide various recreational activities. Based on our extensive review, we have selected and recommend places where students can experience significant growth and transformation.
The planner recommends it! Here is the project plan developed and overseen by the planner.
This project is designed to instill confidence in individuals who want to overcome their English challenges. If you've been frustrated by your English skills not improving despite your desire to engage in cultural exchange and conversations with diverse foreigners, join this project!
In the Philippines, one of the greatest advantages of language schools is their 1:1 conversation classes, which can rapidly enhance your English skills. Actively participating in these classes can quickly build your confidence in English. With affordable living costs and a wide range of recreational activities, I highly recommend Cebu, Philippines, for those looking to have a short but enjoyable time learning English! |
After 4 weeks | After 8 weeks | After 12 weeks |
STUDY IT! | EXPERIENCE IT! | BREAKTHROUGH! |
◇ Getting familiar with English expressions through 1:1 conversation classes. ◇ Enjoying various activities to form relationships with new people. |
◇ Developing an interest in English ◇ Taking a break from everyday life |
◇ Increased confidence through improving English proficiency. ◇ Forming a broad perspective through interaction with foreign friends. ◇ Experiencing a relaxed life and self-reflection. |
Improving English skills through one-on-one focused lessons!
The biggest feature of language schools in the Philippines is their emphasis on one-on-one lessons compared to other countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, where one-on-one lessons are practically impossible. Even if you have to pay more than four times the cost of studying in the Philippines, you would have to settle for participating in group classes with at least 15 people. To improve your English skills in a short period, we recommend starting your studies in the Philippines. For students starting English from scratch or wanting to learn from the basics, this is an ideal opportunity. You can also take advantage of your free time to get a scuba diving certification or go backpacking. In the Philippines, through one-on-one lessons, you can build a solid foundation and then enhance your practical conversational skills in other English-speaking countries!
■ Project Details
You can choose between two types of language study programs according to your own learning style.
1) Type A: Type to Complement Areas of Deficiency Through One-on-One Lessons and Improve English Proficiency
You can enjoy studying and improving your skills in a balanced class by harmoniously combining 1:1 lessons and small group sessions.
In small group classes, you can interact with international friends while studying English, and you can supplement areas where you are lacking through one-on-one lessons. Therefore, this course is suitable for anyone, from beginners to advanced learners, looking to enhance their existing English skills.
🙆🏻♂️Participants recommended by the planner >> Recommended for those who want to build a solid foundation while enjoying learning English I recommend it to those who want to effectively learn English by mastering speaking, reading, writing, and listening thoroughly and enjoying it while building a solid foundation in English. Fill in your weak areas through one-on-one lessons, and in small group classes, choose subjects that suit you to learn English joyfully with international friends! |
Type A Lesson Structure:
- 4 hours of 1:1 lessons: Conversation skills, listening, reading & vocabulary, writing & grammar
- 3 hours of small group lessons (up to 4 people): Grammar, pronunciation & conversation skills, multimedia, debate, survival English
- 1 hour of group lessons (up to 8 people): Grammar, pronunciation & conversation skills, debate
- 2 hours of self-study: Time to review the learned material
2) Type B: Type to Focus While Receiving One-on-One Tutoring
There are 6 hours of 1:1 lessons conducted daily, offering more personalized instruction than Type A. This course focuses on customized learning, allowing for effective and rapid skill improvement. It is recommended for those who wish to concentrate intensively on one-on-one lessons for shorter periods to enhance their skills.
🙆🏻♂️Participants recommended by the planner >> Someone who wants to improve their conversational skills in the short-term 1:1 classes allow you to have continuous conversations with the teacher, enabling you to speak much more than in group classes. Furthermore, it helps to address questions or areas for improvement promptly, which aids in improving conversational skills in a short period. For those looking to increase their English proficiency quickly and intensively, we recommend Option B!
* If you prefer to build your skills step by step from the basics, we recommend starting with Type A :) |
Type B Lesson Structure:
- 6 hours of 1:1 lessons: Conversation skills, listening, reading & vocabulary, writing & grammar
- 1 hour of small group lessons (up to 4 people): Grammar, pronunciation & conversation skills, multimedia, debate, survival English
- 1 hour of group lessons (up to 8 people): Grammar, pronunciation & conversation skills, debate
- 2 hours of self-study: Time to review the learned material
* Daily Schedule
Time |
Contents |
|
7:00 - 7:50 |
Breakfast |
|
8:00 - 8:45 |
1st Period |
1:1 Lesson |
8:50 - 9:35 |
2nd Period |
1:1 Lesson |
9:40 - 10:25 |
3rd Period |
Self-study |
10:30 - 11:15 |
4th Period |
Group Lesson (1:4) |
11:20 - 12:05 |
5th Period |
Group Lesson (1:4) |
12:05 - 13:05 |
Lunch Break |
|
13:05 - 13:50 |
6th Period |
1:1 Lesson |
13:55 - 14:40 |
7th Period |
1:1 Lesson |
14:45 - 15:30 |
8th Period |
Self-study |
15:35 - 16:20 |
9th Period |
Group Lesson (1:4) |
16:25 - 17:10 |
10th Period |
Group Lesson (1:8) |
17:10 - 18:00 |
11th Period |
Free Time |
18:00 - 18:50 |
Dinner |
* Typically, outings are possible after the 11th period, but this may vary depending on the assigned dormitory placement.
- This schedule is a general sample timetable provided for clarity.
- Detailed schedules, group class sizes, and meal/free times may vary based on level, curriculum, and local conditions.
- Classes are conducted in 45-minute sessions with 5-minute breaks between classes.
- Level Placement Test: On the first day of classes, a level test will be administered to assess English proficiency and focus on areas of weakness.
- Mid-term Assessment: Monthly assessments, similar to the level test format (usually on Fridays), will be conducted to monitor progress.
- There are a total of 8 levels, and based on the level test results, students will be placed in appropriate classes.
* Class schedules can be adjusted flexibly according to individual needs. For specific preferences, please inquire in advance.
■ Activities
- After classes on the last Friday morning of each month, activities such as Christmas parties, Halloween, Valentine's Day, Zumba dance, and other on-campus activities or off-campus tours, volunteer activities, city tours, etc., are organized.
- During free time outside of classes, you are free to go out. Use this time to naturally engage in various activities such as dining out, traveling, volunteering, and participating in activities with friends from different countries, all while using English!
* Additional charges may apply depending on the activity, and availability may vary based on school schedules, local conditions, and health regulations.
Linked Program
■ Experience Linked Language Study in Two Countries
Linked language study involves studying in one or more countries to achieve maximum effectiveness at minimal cost, considering expenses and duration. Typically, participants complete short-term language courses in countries like the Philippines, known for lower costs, before moving on to English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom to experience the culture firsthand and enhance their advanced English skills. Enjoy cost-effective language study benefits through a linked program in two countries and explore diverse cultures and lifestyles!
Language study, TIP! "Where would be a good country to study English?"
The improvement in English proficiency during language study abroad depends on how well the class format, local environment, and native culture suit you. Research the specific characteristics of language programs in each country :)
|
■ Using practical English through various project collaborations
Participating in projects where English is essential after language studies provides significant motivation and opportunities for improvement. Many gap year projects involve participants from around the world, allowing you to naturally enhance your conversational skills while living and interacting with friends from various countries. Engaging in internships, volunteering, travel, and educational projects after language studies not only sustains your motivation gained during language immersion but also allows you to apply and further develop your honed conversational abilities in real-life scenarios.
* Participation in linked projects is optional. For more information, please contact Korea Gap Year (koreagapyear@gmail.com)
■ Example of a linked project
After participating in a specific language immersion program, Gap Year participant Kim Jeong-eun joined a volunteer project to build a village in Chiang Rai, Thailand
* Among the contents of the video (6:03~6:41) "I was able to gain more confidence by trying out various experiments in Thailand after learning in the Philippines." |
This project was necessary not for improving my TOEIC or TOEFL scores, but simply to have a period of time called 'gap year' in order to gain a broader perspective. As a result, I was able to study at my own pace properly. There was no need for comparison with others. - By Baek Seung-Yeop
In the Philippines, I was able to stay overnight with friends my age, discussing and playfully joking about our English language studies. We also had the opportunity to travel together. Life at the language school was incredibly dynamic and enjoyable. Like a child, I laughed and played, filling the voids within me. - By Kim Hyo-Jeong
Through this project, I gained a lot of confidence in English and formed bonds with foreign friends that I wouldn't have encountered if I had been in Korea. I want to maintain these relationships and keep them strong in the future. - By Woo Byeong-Yoon
After digesting classes from Monday to Friday, the sense of achievement I felt over the weekends was truly immense. Moreover, chatting with foreign friends in English, despite not knowing the language before, made me realize, "I can do this too." Most of all, what I found most enjoyable was the one-on-one time. - By Kim Chae-Hyun
- THANKS GAPYEAR :)
* Detailed reviews from participants can be found on GapYear Story (click).
* More participant reviews are available at the bottom of the project under "Participant Reviews."
Details of support
Local Orientation | Online Orientation | Online Consultation | Certificate of Completion |
KGY Certification | Pre-Departure Care | KGY Consultation | KGY Mission |
24hr Emergency Care | Airplane Ticket | Real-Time Consultation Service | KGY Note Book |
Project and Participation Costs | KGY Mission Scholarship | OT Documents | Dormitories within the Language School (1, 2, 4-person rooms to choose from) |
Three Meals a Day | 1:1 English classes | Group English Classes | Various On-Campus and Off-Campus Activities |
On-site Dedicated Korean Manager | Laundry Service |
Shared Facilities (Gym, lounge, convenient store, etc.) |
Monthly Level Tests |
School - Dormitory Shuttle Bus
|
* Additional charges may apply depending on the activities for various on-campus and off-campus activities.
Not included
- Round-trip airfare
- Philippine visa extension fee
- Individual traveler's insurance fee
- Local airport pickup fee
- Other local living expenses (SSP issuance fee, dormitory deposit, electricity bill, I-CARD, ID CARD, water bill, visa extension fee, textbook fee, etc.)
Institution Introduction
Word from the Local Institution Representative
Hello everyone! Discover the joy of learning English at our school located in the safe and scenic AS Fortuna area in Cebu.
By participating in this project, you can enjoy one-on-one English lessons with teachers in clean and convenient facilities. On weekends, you can join multinational friends for marine sports in the clear blue sea.
Our school offers various courses including conversation-focused classes, IELTS, TOEIC preparation, TESOL, English interviews for airline flight attendants, and business English. These courses cater to those who wish to deepen their English skills in their desired fields.
Furthermore, we provide a variety of services such as buffet-style meals, cleaning, laundry, weekend activities, volunteer opportunities, and festive celebrations like Halloween and Christmas parties. Our goal is to enhance your English proficiency in a short period while also providing opportunities to engage in activities you may not have experienced before, all while interacting with friends and teachers in English.
Join us to achieve both the English skills you desire and new experiences. Don't hesitate!
Thank you.
1-person, 2-person, or 4-person rooms (separated by sex) / Each Room Has a Shared Bathroom and Air Conditioner / Internet Available |
Location Introduction
ㅣ Location : Philippines, Cebu
Participation target
- Adults aged 18 and older in good physical health.
- Anyone who wants to improve their English conversation skills.
- People who want to enjoy learning English with international friends.
- Those interested in participating in activities using English after language training.
- Individuals considering overseas employment.
- Those aiming for careers in international business or related industries.
- People interested in living long-term in countries other than Korea.
- Individuals contemplating future immigration plans.
Schedule And Prices
■ The minimum duration of participation in this project is a minimum of 4 weeks.
■ Project Costs
A Type | 4-Person Room | 2-Person Room | 1-Person Room (Semi) | 1-Person Room |
4 weeks | 2,000,000 | 2,400,000 | 2,550,000 | 2,750,000 |
8 weeks | 3,800,000 | 4,600,000 | 4,900,000 | 5,400,000 |
12 weeks | 5,600,000 | 6,800,000 | 7,250,000 | 8,050,000 |
16 weeks | 7,400,000 | 9,000,000 | 9,600,000 | 10,700,000 |
20 weeks | 9,200,000 | 11,200,000 | 11,950,000 | 13,350,000 |
24 weeks | 11,000,000 | 13,400,000 | 14,300,000 | 16,000,000 |
B Type | 4-Person Room | 2-Person Room | 1-Person Room (Semi) | 1-Person Room |
4 weeks | 2,100,000 | 2,500,000 | 2,650,000 | 2,850,000 |
8 weeks | 4,000,000 | 4,800,000 | 5,100,000 | 5,600,000 |
12 weeks | 5,900,000 | 7,100,000 | 7,550,000 | 8,350,000 |
16 weeks | 7,800,000 | 9,400,000 | 10,000,000 | 11,100,000 |
20 weeks | 9,700,000 | 11,700,000 | 12,450,000 | 13,850,000 |
24 weeks | 11,600,000 | 14,000,000 | 14,900,000 | 16,600,000 |
* For popular projects, availability may be limited, so we encourage prompt applications.
* Participants will reside in dormitories provided by local language schools in the Philippines, with options including single, double, triple, and quadruple rooms. For inquiries regarding accommodations, please contact Korea Gap Year at koreagapyear@gmail.com.
* During the summer peak season (from July 1st to August 25th, 2024), peak season rates will apply. Additional charges will be communicated individually depending on the participant.
■ KGY MISSION (▶MORE)
■ NOTICE OF INSTALLMENT PAYMENT
If you are unable to pay in full, please deposit 500,000 won in advance for the registration fee and deposit the balance within two weeks. The process of confirming participation in the project will be conducted based on the date of payment of the registration fee to check the availability and TO. It is important to secure a position as soon as possible to participate in the desired date and period! (No refund when confirmed participation)
*However, if the start date is imminent, the balance deposit schedule may vary depending on the situation.
We recommend that all projects be applied three months before the start date of the project participation with normal procedures and KGY's preparation periods, and in principle, you can apply at least two months before the start date. However, if you need to participate in the project urgently or urgently, we will help you with the procedure as soon as possible by paying an additional amount through the emergency application service.
*We are helping you with the quick procedure as soon as possible, but there is a basic time such as communication with local organizations and time to confirm participation, and all procedures are the same as regular participants, so those who participate through the late application service should actively cooperate with the Korea GapYear operation team.
** Those who apply 180 days before the start date can get an early bird discount.
*** The emergency late application service can be applied from the selection option at the top, and if you have any questions related to the emergency application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com .
☞ Provision: Automatic application for gap-year missions and notes / Full provision immediately upon confirmation of participation in OT materials / Additional emergency personnel / Support for preparation if documents are required
* If you have a hard time calculating the date, please refer to NAVER's date calculator >> 네이버 날짜 계산기 바로가기
Note: In the case of an emergency late application, there may be no TO depending on the local situation, and subsequent procedures will be carried out in accordance with the gap year refund policy. In addition, the participant is responsible for any problems caused by the participant's non-cooperation.