Can I earn high school credit for taking a Discovery Student Adventure trip?

Yes, students entering 9th through 12th grade are eligible for high school credit. Students must complete assigned pre-trip activities, be an active participant during travel and complete a post-trip assignment to receive the credit.

Do students need to apply to earn high school credit?

No, students do not need to apply. Students entering 9th through 12th grade are automatically enrolled to earn high school credit at the time they enroll into the program. It is the teacher’s (the teacher leading your group) responsibility to send a credit completion form for each student into the Washington School of World Studies for review.

How can students use the credit that they earn on the program?

Students who complete course requirements will be sent an official transcript from the Washington School of World Studies. This transcript will become a part of the student’s academic dossier and will reflect positively on the student when applying to a college or university. Students and their admissions counselors have told us that the additional work displayed on this transcript sets the student apart from other college applicants.

What type of accommodations are included with each trip?

To ensure that our educators and students have the richest experience possible, we strive to include unique accommodations as part of the program. We may arrange for stays in hotels (minimum three stars), dormitories, a jungle lodge, educational facility, research center or even an overnight aquarium experience in Australia. Some programs also include outdoor adventure accommodations, such as camping on a protected nesting site in Greece, or snow caving in New Zealand. On occasion, we also use night trains or overnight ferry services to maximize the time students spend in various destinations. Usual accommodations are three or four students per room, with one student per bed. Educators on the program may share a room with a fellow traveling educator.

What ages can travel on a Discovery Student Adventure?

Discovery Student Adventure trips are open to students 10 to 17 years old.

What is the dress code?

Most daily activities call for comfortable yet presentable clothing. Bear in mind this type of clothing is also easier and lighter to pack and dries easily overnight if it becomes wet or requires laundering. A more detailed, recommended packing list will be provided closer to travel.

How do I book my Discovery Student Adventure?

Once you've discussed this opportunity with your teacher, you can enroll online. In addition, if you are interested in a trip and are not aware of a local teacher enrolling a group, you may sign-up to take a trip and be placed in a group with an assigned teacher Travel Leader.

How many community service hours does each program have?

Students will earn 10 service learning hours for participation in service activities. Activities vary by program and destination.

Is airfare included in the cost of the trip?

Flight transportation during the program is included. International airfare is a separate cost, which is available/listed on the website.

I want to book my own airfare. Is this possible?

It is our goal to provide the most direct flights available and allow students to fly together. If you are a student interested in booking your own airfare, please check with the teacher leading your group first.

What about seat assignments?

We cannot request individual seat assignments in advance. The airlines assign a block of seats for groups.

Can I use existing Frequent Flyer miles for this trip?

If you would like to use frequent flyer miles to book your child’s air, which may cause your child to deviate away from the group, you will need to check with your child’s teacher Travel Leader first and then complete a deviation request. It is encouraged that students stay with their group at all times.

What type of fundraising opportunities are available to help me pay for my trip?

Fundraising can be a rewarding part of your Discovery Student Adventure experience. We encourage students to be creative when planning their fundraising campaign. Please visit our funding website to find step-by-step guidance through the process of finding local sponsorships, including downloadable worksheets, proven ideas and others resources. You will have access to this portion of the website as soon as you apply for a trip.

What type of identification do I need to travel?

A U.S. citizen needs a valid U.S. passport, with at least 6 months validity left from the date of re-entry. A non-U.S. citizen needs a valid passport from the country of which they are a citizen (with the recommended 6 months validity left from the date of re-entry) and a valid U.S. visa, Permanent Resident (Green) Card, or U.S. issued re-entry permit.

What type of insurance is included in the cost of the trip?

All students and teachers are covered by a basic group insurance plan that helps offset costs if a major injury is incurred during travel. This insurance is included in the program cost and helps cover the cost of emergency evacuations and hospitalization. This coverage is primarily during travel. You will receive complete information on the insurance coverage options after you enroll.

What types of meals are included in the program?

The program includes three meals per day. Meals begin on the overseas flight and terminate upon arrival in the United States.

Can you accommodate those with dietary restrictions?

Yes, we can work with you in regards to dietary needs.

Please note that anyone with a peanut allergy cannot travel to China due to the way food is cooked and prepared.

How physically fit do I have to be to experience and enjoy a Discovery Student Adventure?

You should have the ability to participate in most program activities listed in the day to day itinerary for each trip, including but not limited to, walking 3-5 miles a day over uneven terrain and in various weather conditions and participating in any adventure activities while on the program.

What is generally included in the price of the trip?

The price includes three meals per day including soft drinks, transportation during the program, all accommodations and activities, basic insurance coverage and all educational materials for the high school academic credit.

What is the deadline for my deposit?

Deposit is required at the time of application. To ensure that your place is held for a specific trip, it is important for you to get your deposit in as timely as possible.

What is the student/teacher ratio?

Each travel group is determined by age group (middle and high school) and has an average of 35-40 students and 4-8 teachers.

Is there an expert guide on the program?

Each group will have a travel manager who will handle all operational aspects of the program.

Can I request a roommate?

Roommate requests should be directed to the teacher serving as your group Travel Leader.

How do you ensure the safety of the students while traveling on the program?

The safety of all Discovery Student Adventures participants is our highest priority. We are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable educational experience for all program participants, and we pledge to maintain open and ongoing communication with students, leaders, and family members regarding safety and any world events that may affect our programs.

A Proven Track Record
Discovery Education is working with World Adventures Unlimited, a subsidiary of Ambassadors Group, the world leader in safe student travel experiences, to implement and operate these trips. As experts with over 40 years of experience, Ambassadors works diligently with us to ensure the safety of every student and leader on every program. As part of our comprehensive commitment to safety, working with Ambassadors Group, we provide the following services for our participants:

• A trained 24-hour response team available to respond to any emergency or situation that may arise during travel.
• A worldwide network of in-country travel experts allow us to anticipate possible situations and respond quickly to ensure that our programs remain high-quality, enjoyable experiences.
• Top-level experts in every country travel to assess local situations and keep us informed of new travel precautions.
• Every group travels with international cell phones to ensure timely communication

Our safety practices are an unparalleled approach that includes: reliance on federal guidelines, the strength and experience of leaders, expertise and experience in program destination countries, a vast global network of resources and team members, and a sincere commitment to the well-being of our educators, students and their families.

How much spending money should I take?

Spending habits of students vary greatly. It is important to plan spending carefully. The amount of money required also varies with destination. We suggest from $20-$25 per day.

Who is the tour operator/provider for Discovery Student Adventures?

World Adventures Unlimited, Inc., a subsidiary of Ambassadors Group, Inc. implements and operates all Discovery Student Adventures. As a recognized leader in student travel programs, Ambassadors Group has over 40 years of experience operating student travel programs around the world.