Innovative gap year programs
Carpe Diem Education offers expertly designed gap year programs to 5 continents and 18 countries around the world.
We provide students an opportunity to explore some of the most fascinating regions on Earth, each offering a unique culturally immersive experience. Through educational curriculum designed to challenge perspectives, enrich cross-cultural understanding, and inspire personal growth, students reignite their passion for learning. View our online program catalog here!
Our Latitudes Year Program
An immersive 3 month group semester followed
by an in-depth individual Focused Volunteer Placement.
1:6
ratio of OEs to students
no more than 12 students per program
1⁄3
of students participate in
our Latitudes year program
43%
of students earned
college credit during
the '18-'19 school year
15%
of students received
Federal Financial Aid during
the '18-'19 school year
10%
of students received a
scholarship during the
'18-'19 school year
Carpe Diem donates an average of $160,000 per year to our non-profit Carpe Mundi
96%
approval rating on
Go Overseas
9.7/10
on Go Abroad
The Carpe Diem Experience
Carpe Diem inspires growth and transformation through culturally immersive gap year experiences. Our programs include:
Experiential Education
Develop real-world knowledge and skills through active, hands-on learning and taking time for reflection.
Community Engagement
Grow as an individual and as a community by living and learning with others.
Intercultural Exchange
Expand your perspective and enrich your world view by engaging with different cultures.
Our Program Components
All of our gap year programs include the following components:
Community Engagement:
Connect with others through shared goals and common purpose
Cultural Immersion:
Be informed by new and unique perspectives
Service Learning:
Collaborate with community partners to do meaningful hands-on work.
Language Study:
Develop your language skills through instruction from native speakers
Homestay:
Build community and discover new ways of living
Student-Directed Travel:
Practice your skills as you grow into a savvy international traveler
Reflection Retreat:
Take time to integrate and contextualize all that you have experienced
Outdoor Adventure:
Get off the beaten path and discover some of the most beautiful places on earth
Environmental Conservation:
Engage in efforts to promote the well-being of the planet.
What Makes Us Unique
Our gap semester and Latitudes year programs combine hands-on learning, thematic studies, personal development, and reflective activities to diversify perspectives and inspire growth and transformation.
College Credit/Financial Aid
In partnership with Portland State University, students can earn college credit (and use financial aid) while participating in a Carpe Diem program. Learn more about earning college credit and how to use your financial aid.
Our Scholarships
We are committed to making the gap year experience accessible to more students and families by providing three Carpe Diem scholarships. Learn more about our scholarships here.
Diversity & Inclusion
We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusivity are the foundations of a thriving community. Learn about our diversity and inclusion efforts here.
Testimonials
"I can say with confidence that my gap year has been the best year of my life."
-Adele,
CDE Student
"Hands down the most meaningful and powerful journey I’ve ever been on."
- Cooper,
CDE Student
