Why I loved studying English in Montreal: food, festivals and friendship
At EC Montreal, every student has a unique story to tell. In this heartfelt testimonial, Marina from Japan shares...
English
The time after high school or university is full of possibilities. Should you go straight into the next stage of education/work or take some time to do something adventurous before settling down? A gap year spent learning English abroad is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, experience life in a new culture, and really improve your language ability.
A gap year is a planned break, typically lasting a year, taken before or after higher education. It’s a time to travel, work, volunteer, or learn new skills, like studying English abroad. For many young people, a gap year abroad in an English-speaking country or a place where it is widely spoken can be a life-changing way to improve language ability while becoming more globally-minded and confident.
Gap years are very popular worldwide. According to the Gap Year Association, approximately 40,000-60,000 American students take a gap year each year, and the trend is growing globally, with countries like the UK and Australia seeing similar increases. In 2023, the UK alone hosted around 419,000 students learning English as a foreign language, many of whom were gap year participants seeking immersive language experiences. This shows how popular English-learning gap years abroad have become, especially for young adults.
Learning English in a classroom in your own country is great, but nothing beats full immersion abroad. Studies show that students who study in English-speaking countries can improve their English by 33–38% compared to those studying at home! Living in an environment where English is spoken everywhere forces you to practice daily, from ordering coffee to chatting with locals. This immersion helps you master not just grammar and vocabulary but also real-world communication skills, like understanding slang or cultural nuances.
For example, research on Turkish EFL students found that studying abroad in English-speaking countries led to significant improvements in oral and written complexity, accuracy, and fluency. A gap year in places like the UK, USA and Canada, or even non-English-speaking countries with strong English programs (like Dubai) can fast-track your language skills.
A gap year abroad exposes you to new cultures, helping you become more adaptable and culturally aware. According to the Institute of International Education, U.S. students taking part in study abroad programmes increased by 3.8% in the 2018/2019 academic year, with many citing cultural understanding as a key benefit. For English students, this means not only learning English but also understanding the cultural contexts behind the language, e.g. idioms, humour, or workplace etiquette.
Living abroad also gives you the opportunity for global networking. You’ll connect with students and professionals from around the world, building relationships that can open doors for future opportunities.
English ability is a significant asset in today’s global job market. If you want to have a promising career, being able to communicate effectively in English gives you an advantage in the job market. A study by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages found that bilingual employees earn 5-20% more than their monolingual counterparts. A gap year spent improving your English can make your resume stand out, showing employers you’re independent, confident and skilled in the world’s business language.
A gap year abroad allows you to explore new environments, solve problems and adapt to unfamiliar situations. A survey by Rosetta Stone found that 89% of language learners reported improved self-confidence due to their language-learning efforts. For English learners, mastering English using real-world skills in real-life settings like ordering food, asking for directions, or making friends, builds confidence that carries over into academic and professional life.
Living independently abroad gives you maturity and adaptability. Of all the gap year benefits, growing into a more responsible individual is perhaps the most long-lasting life skill.
Learning a second language, such as English, helps improve thinking skills, such as solving problems and staying focused. Research published in Psychological Science shows that people who speak two languages (bilinguals) are better at switching between tasks than those who speak only one language (monolinguals). For students, taking a gap year to learn English abroad can also help them perform better academically. A study in Spain found that students in bilingual programs improved their English without doing worse in their other subjects.
While the benefits are clear, a gap year abroad can have its challenges. Homesickness, language barriers and cultural issues, as well as financial concerns, are not unusual. However, being aware that these issues could arise before you travel makes them less of a shock. Additionally, it’s worth noting that language and cultural issues are temporary and will resolve as your speaking ability improves. You will feel more at home once you’re accustomed to your surroundings and the local community. Financial worries can be reduced by choosing a destination where your student visa allows you to work part-time. Planning ahead and researching programmes can help you turn these challenges into opportunities.
EC English runs free Job Club at most of its schools, where you can get help with your resume and preparing for a job interview in English.
Study and Work Programme: Depending on your nationality, your visa requirements and where you learn English abroad, you may be able to get a special study visa which allows you to obtain paid part-time work, which can help you cover the cost of your trip and give you international work experience.
Academic Year Programme: If you want to spend your gap year learning English, an Academic Year course is a great choice. This course is the ideal gap year programme designed for students who want to study for a longer time (at least 24 weeks). You will have regular English lessons each week and receive regular feedback and assessments from your teacher. You can also choose to add exam preparation classes, such as IELTS or Cambridge English, which are useful if you plan to study at university or have a career using English or work in an English-speaking country. Many schools also give discounts for long term study.
Immerse yourself: During your gap year mix with locals, join clubs, or volunteer to maximise language practice and cultural exposure. Consider staying with a host family during the first part of your language course to help you feel more at home and get familiar with the local culture quicker.
Match a destination to your taste:
UK: rich culture, excellent public transport, easy weekend trips across Europe.
USA: diverse regions and accents, great for career-focused learners.
Canada: friendly locals, beautiful nature, high quality of life.
Ireland: small, welcoming, with strong education and cultural identity.
Malta: sunny, affordable, widely spoken English.
South Africa or Dubai: unique, adventurous destinations where English is widely used.
Here are some quick, clear tips on how to choose from a range of language schools:
2. Class sizes and levels
3. Support services (job clubs, visa help, housing)
4. Nationality mix (important for immersion)
5. Course options (Academic Year, Exam Preparation courses)
A gap year to learn English abroad is more than a long holiday! It’s an investment in your future. From seriously improving your English skills to boosting your career prospects and personal growth, the benefits are backed by research and real-world impact. With over 1.5 billion people learning English globally, you won’t want to be left behind. Learning English abroad will give you the skills that set you apart. So, take the leap, explore the world, and let a gap year transform you into a confident, global citizen!
Ready to learn English and have an amazing cultural experience? Contact us today and let’s begin your journey.
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