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Frequently Asked Questions About the Gap Program
CLASSES AND LOCATIONS
HOST FAMILIES
PREPARATION AND LOGISTICS
APPLICATION PROCESS
Questions?
What is a Gap Program?
A Gap Program is an opportunity to use the time you have between two projects or stages in your life by studying a language, experiencing a different culture, and following your personal goals and interests. For example, more and more students choose to do a Gap Program between high school and college, or between college terms to find their focus and complement their education. Other people design a Gap Program for their sabbatical or after their retirement. Whatever “gap” you are facing, our programs will help you bridge it the way YOU want.
CLASSES AND LOCATIONS
At what level will I be studying?
Your language skills will be evaluated on the first day and you will be placed in a class with others at your level. All schools offer classes from beginning to advanced levels. If you feel that you should switch to a different class level, talk to your teacher or the school’s curriculum coordinator.
Can I study at more than one location?
Yes! Many schools have sister campuses in different regions of the country. For example in Costa Rica you can study at a campus near San Jose, then move to the cloud forest of Monteverde, and end your stay on the sunny beaches of Flamingo! Andeo can also register you for two or more programs in different countries, such as Italy and Spain.
HOST FAMILIES
What is a “host family”?
A host family may be a single adult, a single parent, a couple with young children or a multigenerational family. All host families are screened by the school’s homestay coordinator and evaluated by each student they host. They provide warm, welcoming homes for international students. Many families also host other students who are attending the language school.
Will my family speak English?
They might, but they know that you are coming to use and improve your language skills, so they will encourage you to speak their language.
Are host families paid?
The families may receive a small weekly stipend to help cover their expenses. You will find that they are very welcoming hosts who are experienced at sharing their culture and helping you learn their language and customs.
When will I get information about my host family?
You will receive information about your host family the week before your departure.
Will there be someone my age in the family?
Not necessarily, but you will have opportunities to meet other students your age at the school or through cultural activities and on the excursions.
What it I have a problem with my family?
Talk with the homestay coordinator of your program. They want you to have a rewarding homestay experience and will help with any problems or questions.
How will I get from the airport to my host family?
You will be met at your arrival airport by the local program coordinator and taken to your host family. In some programs the host family will meet you at the airport.
PREPARATION AND LOGISTICS
Will I get any orientation material?
Yes. Before you leave you will receive an orientation packet with detailed information about everything from packing and insurance to passports and culture shock. Each school also has an orientation on the first day to help you settle into the program and your new surroundings.
Do I need to get a visa?
That depends on the length of your stay, on your citizenship, and on the regulations that apply to the country you are visiting. U.S. citizens can visit most countries for 90 days without a visa. In many cases the 90-day period can be easily extended by traveling to a neighboring country.
How much spending money should I bring?
This varies depending on which country you are visiting and how many activities and excursions you want to add to your program. Your orientation materials will include suggested weekly spending money amounts.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend that you get travel insurance that includes a medical plan. Prices depend upon trip length and participant age, but average about $75 for a 4-week stay. Visit www.insuremytrip.com for a comparison of different policies.
How will my friends and family be able to contact me?
All schools offer internet access to students, and in all countries there are also internet cafes. For emergencies you can also give your family your host family’s phone number. Be sure they are aware of time differences and the fact that your hosts will probably not speak English!
APPLICATION PROCESS
How do I apply?
The first step is to talk to us and figure out what program you want. When you are ready to apply:
1. Complete and return the application form with a $250 deposit. This deposit will be applied toward your total program fee.
2. Within two weeks, you will receive a confirmation letter and pre-departure orientation materials.
3. You will receive your host family information at least one week before departure.
What do the Andeo program fees include?
The program fee includes the following:
- A private room in a home with full board (all meals) or half board (breakfast and dinner)
- 15 to 20 hours of small-group language instruction per week
- Books and other learning materials
- Local cultural activities
- Advice on designing your Gap experience
- Pre-departure orientation materials
- Ongoing support from Andeo and from the local staff throughout your program.
Who should not apply for this program?
In order to assure a successful experience for participants, teachers and host families, individuals who have recently or are currently experiencing excessive behavior problems, drug or alcohol abuse, or eating disorders should not apply. Students who develop these problems during the program may be asked to leave the homestay and program
What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel your program more than 45 days prior to your start date, we will refund the amount you have paid toward your program fee except for the $100 nonrefundable deposit and any cancellation fees charged by the language school. The cancellation fees vary from school to school, so please feel free to ask us about the fees that apply to your program. For cancellations made less than 45 days prior to your program start date, your $250 deposit will be forfeited, and you will also be responsible for the cancellation fees charged by the language school. If Andeo cancels your program, you will receive a full refund.
Are there any scholarships?
Unfortunately, no. We are a non-profit organization and we try to keep our prices as low as possible for all students. However we can send you some helpful information about fundraising; some students have raised up to $2,000 using our fundraising suggestions!
Can I talk with students who have participated in your program?
Of course! Please call us at 503-274-1776 (in Portland) or 1-800-274-6007 or email us. We will be happy to give you names and telephone numbers of previous participants.
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