Our ranking system highlights the most trusted, relevant programs — and we’ll show you how.
At Go Overseas, we believe in transparency — especially around how programs are ranked. We use review sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and even OnSecondScoop.com too, and we often wish they were more transparent. That’s why we’re committed to doing things differently.
Much like Google’s, our algorithm evolves over time. We regularly monitor performance and adjust inputs to ensure the most relevant, trustworthy programs rise to the top — and we’re here to explain exactly how it works.
1. Campaign Spend
Your marketing campaign spend directly impacts your program visibility on Go Overseas. Paid partners receive higher exposure across relevant listings, helping you reach more potential participants.
🔓 Learn more about partnership options on our Partnerships Page.
2. Review Count and Rating
Programs with more reviews — and higher average ratings — are more likely to appear in top positions. People come to Go Overseas to hear from alumni — it’s the most important content to them. Reviews build trust with prospective travelers and signal quality to our algorithm.
🧠 Algorithm Fact: Programs need at least 3 reviews to be indexed with Google from Go Overseas. Being indexed can increase your program visibility by up to 70%.
3. Review Freshness
Users prefer recent reviews — the more recent your reviews, the better! Fresh feedback reassures users that your program is still active and relevant.
🧠 Algorithm Fact: Program listings that haven't been reviewed in 1 year will slowly start to be negatively impacted by the algorithm.
🧠 Algorithm Fact: If your program has a review from the last 90 days, it receives a 10% boost in visibility.
4. Priority Programs
Marking your program as a priority listing helps your program stand out even more. These can be your oldest, under-enrolled, or pet projects! Learn more about priority listings here.
🧠 Algorithm Fact: If a program has been prioritized, it receives a 5% boost to its rating score.
🔓 These tools are available with our Partnership Options.
5. Staff and Alumni Interviews
Interviews give your program a human touch, helping users connect with your team and past participants. They boost engagement, build trust, and contribute to visibility in our algorithm.
🧠 Algorithm Fact: Adding interviews can improve program performance across the site.
🔓 Available with our partner plan options.
6. Updated Content
Keeping your program content fresh ensures accurate, trustworthy listings that convert better. Use our Campaign Optimization Checklist to make sure your listings are optimized for performance.
🧠 Algorithm Fact: Content that hasn't been updated in 1 year will slowly be negatively affected by the algorithm.
🧠 Algorithm Fact: Programs with up-to-date Application and Program Dates receive a 10% boost in visibility.
Staying competitive on Go Overseas means keeping your content fresh, gathering regular reviews, and making the most of premium features. If you have questions or want help with optimization, reach out to our team — or explore our partner plans here.