“I gained new friends, knowledge and understanding of the worlds problems and how we as young people can stop them. I loved every second of it!” Niamh
Under 18
Under 18
EIL Explore awards are funded travel opportunities for people who are interested in the personal challenge of becoming a global citizen, while exploring and immersing themselves world cultures. On your return, all participants are required to complete an Action at Home Project that reflects and shares their learning with their community.
See the lists of Explore awards for under 18s below to learn more about what options are available to you.
Which One Is for me
Could you be an ambassador for Ireland in Ecuador? Or a student in a folk school in the woods of Denmark? From youth leadership & activism in the U.S. to studying abroad in Europe, EIL Explore has a range of options for young global citizens.
Under 18? Where will you go this summer?
Secondary School
Secondary School: 3 months (Aug – Dec 2025) – Study abroad in a European country – Host family & local school
Youth Activist
Youth Activist – Governor’s Institutes of Vermont (USA) – 2 weeks in Vermont USA – Youth Leadership & Social Justice workshop series – winner travels as the Vermont group
International Summer School
International Summer School: 4 Weeks – In partnership with Cork Life Centre and their students – Attending school, cultural workshops and excursions in Denmark.
Ecuador
Ecuador: 4 Weeks – Live with an Ecuadorian family, learn basic Spanish, go on excursions to the rainforest, and much more.
Japan
Japan: 4 Weeks – Irish cultural ambassador & secondary school experience while living with a host family in Japan.
Tips for Applicants
The aim of EIL Explore is to support people who have a history of voluntary involvement in their school, college or their community. EIL Explore awards are for people who have demonstrated or who believe they can demonstrate leadership potential and people who would not ordinarily be able to avail of such travel opportunities due to financial restrictions.