Since 1951, Putney has led trusted and educational travel programs for students in grades 6–12—experiential programs that inspire discovery, build confidence, and create friendships that last a lifetime.

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Exploration

Adventure Travel & Cultural Immersion

Trek off the beaten path to immerse yourself in the landscapes and cultures of a place, make connections, and gain new perspectives.

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Service

Community Engagement & Global Awareness

Collaborate on projects, connect meaningfully with people of different cultures, and deepen your understanding of issues affecting our world.

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Career

Hands-On Experiences to Inspire Your Future

Travel to where your interests come alive and work alongside experts and practicing professionals in a variety of fields.

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Language

Active Immersion in Language & Culture

Immerse yourself in a language abroad and accelerate the pace of learning through real-world use of your French, Mandarin, or Spanish skills.

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Academic

Learning at Renowned Global Universities

Pursue your interests at world-class universities with inspiring faculty mentors and motivated peers.

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Go Beyond the Ordinary

What Is Putney Student Travel?

For 75 years, Putney has been the leader in student travel programs and educational summer opportunities for high school and middle school students—making memories and shaping lives. Our summer travel programs combine experiential learning, cultural immersion, and small-group leadership in more than 30 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and North America. Over the course of one to four weeks, students immerse themselves in local cultures, communities, and landscapes, building confidence and sparking a passion for learning and discovery. This spark often ignites lifelong interests, serving as a springboard for students to chart their future course.

"A Global Experience With Decades of History"

The Putney Difference

Why Families Choose Putney Student Travel

Thousands of families and multiple generations have trusted Putney to provide formative, life-changing summer experiences. Families choose Putney for our 75 years of experience, focus on safety and support, and the meaningful growth students gain from traveling and learning in small groups around the world.

Hear What Putney Alumni Say

Parents and students consistently highlight meaningful relationships, connection, personal growth, program quality, communication, and safety as top reasons they recommend Putney. To really understand the lasting impact of a Putney program, hear it from our alumni students and parents directly.

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Featured 2026 Summer Travel Programs

Language

China

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Career

Engineering & Technology on the MIT Campus

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Exploration

Switzerland, Italy, France, & Holland

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Service

Ecuador & the Galápagos

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Academic

Harvard Chan C-CHANGE Youth Summit

“I wouldn’t change a single thing. This was the best summer of my life.”

—Minnie R., NSU University School, Weston, FL

Putney by the Numbers

The Leader in Educational Student Travel

75 Years of Experience

30+ Countries

1951 Founding Year

63,000+ Alumni Families

6 Continents

5 Program Types

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve gathered answers to the questions families ask most often. If you don’t see yours here, our admissions team is happy to help — or browse our full FAQ library for more detail.

What ages are eligible for Putney programs?

Putney offers educational summer travel programs for middle school and high school students currently enrolled in grades 6–12. Middle school programs are designed for grades 6–8, and high school programs are for grades 9–12. Each program is designed for the specific age group to ensure the right level of independence, challenge, supervision, and support. Explore and filter programs here.

What kind of students are Putney programs designed for?

Putney programs are best for curious, open-minded students in grades 6–12 who are ready to step outside their comfort zone and engage meaningfully with the world. You don’t need prior travel experience or specialized skills, just a genuine interest in learning, connecting with others, and embracing new experiences. Whether a student is drawn to wildlife conservation, language immersion, service learning, career exploration, outdoor adventure, or academic challenge, there’s a Putney program built around what excites them.

How long are Putney programs?

Most Putney programs range from 2–4 weeks, depending on the program type and destination. A few of our domestic, U.S.-based programs are 8–12 days. Shorter programs are well-suited for first-time travelers or students with busy summer schedules, while longer programs offer deeper immersion and more comprehensive experiences. We have found, based on our 75 years of experience, that longer programs tend to foster more meaningful growth and outcomes for students. You can find a sortable table of all program dates and details here.

What makes Putney different from other student travel programs?

Putney programs emphasize meaningful engagement and personal growth over tourism. Our programs are thoughtfully designed to be purposeful, educational, and fun. With small group sizes, exceptional leaders, and high program quality, Putney students gain real-world experience and insights, not just exposure. Founded by educators, we remain a mission-driven and family-owned organization, which sets our programs apart from larger student travel organizations owned by private equity firms and holding companies.

Where do Putney programs travel?

Putney offers summer travel programs in more than 30 countries worldwide, across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America.

What types of programs does Putney offer?

Putney offers 5 types of summer programs: Exploration (adventure travel and cultural immersion); Service (community engagement and global awareness); Career (hands-on experiences in specific fields); Language (immersive French, Mandarin, and Spanish programs); and Academic (university-based programs at institutions like Harvard, Columbia, Oxford, Yale, and the American University of Paris). Programs are available in more than 30 countries across 6 continents.

Who leads Putney programs?

Putney programs are led by experienced educators and professionals, many of whom hold advanced degrees and have deep expertise in their fields. Leaders are selected not only for their academic or professional backgrounds, but also for their ability to mentor students, foster strong group dynamics, and support personal exploration and growth.

Putney group leaders are not “guides” or “chaperones”–they are leaders, mentors, and friends to our students. In addition to leading daily activities, Putney leaders guide reflection, facilitate meaningful cultural engagement, and help students navigate new environments with confidence. Many leaders return year after year, contributing to the continuity and strength of the Putney experience. Learn more about what sets Putney leaders apart here.

How does Putney ensure safety on its programs?

Putney Student Travel prioritizes safety through careful planning, experienced leadership, and comprehensive risk management practices developed over more than 75 years. Programs are designed with attention to logistics, local partnerships, and clear protocols to support student well-being in a wide range of environments.

Each program is led by trained leaders who are responsible for supervision, decision-making, and student support. Putney also maintains detailed communication systems, emergency procedures, and ongoing monitoring throughout the summer to ensure a safe and well-managed experience for every student. Learn more about Safety & Risk Management here.

How much do programs cost?

Putney program tuition varies depending on the location, length, and type of program, ranging from $5,390 to $12,990. Tuition is all-inclusive of accommodations, meals, in-country transportation, and all program activities, as well as the support and expertise of experienced leaders.

Additional costs may include international airfare and personal expenses. Putney also offers need-based financial aid and scholarships to help make programs accessible to a wider range of students and families. Sort programs by dates, durations, type, and tuitions here.

Student travel programs in 30+ countries

Summer Travel Programs for High School & Middle School Students

What Is Putney Student Travel?

Why Families Choose Putney Student Travel

Genuine Cultural Interaction

Intentional Program Design

Relationships & Networks

Outstanding Leaders & Experts

Positive Group Dynamics

Structure & Safety

Lasting Benefits

Fun

Hear What Putney Alumni Say

Featured 2026 Summer Travel Programs

The Leader in Educational Student Travel

Frequently Asked Questions

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