Interested in a Gap Year? Why It Might Be the Best Decision for You

For many parents/guardians, it might be a daunting idea to let their student take a gap year off of school before leaving for college. Most parents worry that their student may decide not to attend college after taking a year off, instead opting to wander the world as a vagabond.

However, more often than not, the reality is just the opposite. Gap years can be a wonderful opportunity, especially for those students who have been extremely stressed out during high school, those who are not quite ready for the independence of college, those who aren’t happy with their college application or FAFSA results, or those who simply express an interest in trying something new.

In this article, we cover:

• Where to begin your gap year research
• The associated costs of taking a gap year
• The possibility of earning college credit while on a gap year
• Besides traveling abroad through a gap year program, what can you do? 
• The benefits of a gap year

According to the American Gap Association National Alumni Survey in conjunction with Temple University, the “three most commonly reported reasons for wanting to take a Gap Year were (1) wanting to gain life experiences and experience personal growth; (2) wanting to travel, see the world and experience other cultures; and (3) wanting a break from the traditional academic track.”

Where should I begin to learn about a gap year?

If you are interested in learning more about a gap year, the best place to start is at Gap Year Association, a “nonprofit accreditation and standards-setting organization for gap years that is recognized as such by the US Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission.” This association was founded by Ethan Knight, a former “Gapper,” who traveled to India, Nepal, and Tibet in 1996. In addition to accrediting gap year programs, his desire has also been to help grow the Gap Year Movement. The association's website lists 50+ gap year programs to help families begin the research process. Keep in mind that these programs vary greatly in length, location, and experience. 

If you decide you are interested in pursuing a gap year and have already been accepted into college, then you need to find out the policy at your college. Peterson's explains “If your child is accepted to a school and then decides to defer admission, the reasons for doing so must be submitted in writing to the Dean of Admission, along with a deposit. All of this must be completed before the published deadline to reserve a place in the following year’s freshman class.”

Some colleges may take this process one step further, such as Dickinson University. Although it supports students taking a gap year, it states that “Verify in writing that you will not enroll in a degree-granting program at another institution or apply to other colleges during your time off. Should you do so, you will forfeit your admission to Dickinson.”

Keep in mind that not all colleges will accept a student’s request to defer admission, so it is crucial to check with your college.

What is the cost of a gap year?

Just as these programs vary in length and location, they also vary in cost. However, many of them have financial aid options for those who have filled out the FAFSA (if you were able to this year) in addition to scholarship programs for students.

For example, Carpe Diem Education offers a variety of scholarships for low-income students, first-generation students, and students of color to help offset the cost of its programs. However, keep in mind that some of its scholarship deadlines are May 1st. Another gap year program, Tilting Futures, offers multiple scholarship and aid options: "Our approach for determining financial aid is both need-aware and demographically-aware. We recognize that students from the Global South and those identifying as BIPOC are disproportionately affected by income inequality. Financial aid is just one way we can move closer to an equitable future."

Although these are just two examples, many of the programs offer financial aid and scholarships. Therefore, if you are interested in a gap year, don’t let the cost deter you. Spend some time investigating all of your options.

Can I earn college credit during a gap year?

The answer to this question is tricky. Some colleges, such as Portland State University might offer credit for a specific gap year experience, but most colleges and universities do not offer credit. 

While colleges have different gap year policies, most look at a gap year as a positive experience for students. In fact, Princeton University’s “Novogratz Bridge Year Program” is pretty remarkable, since it is “a nine-month, tuition-free program that allows newly admitted undergraduates to begin their Princeton experience with a year of community-engaged learning at one of six international locations.” The application process takes place in spring after acceptances have been received. Although students do not receive any college credits, the entire program is paid for by Princeton University.

Besides traveling abroad through a gap year program, what else could I do?

You do not need to participate in a formal gap year program to take a gap year between high school and college. Many students simply need some personal time to mature, to learn more about themselves, or to earn money. If staying at home for a year, it’s not uncommon to do a combination of activities like working, volunteering, pursuing a passion, traveling independently, or taking classes at a community college. Some students decide to take a year off from school to work and save money for college. This experience can also help students realize the earning potential they could have with a college degree.

So, while living at home, spend some time volunteering for an organization you might be interested in or take a class or two on something that intrigues you. These classes do not need to be academic in nature; instead, try a painting class, a yoga class, or a photography class. Taking the time to further explore your interests and passions is always beneficial.

What are the benefits of a gap year?

The Gap Year Association’s study with Temple University explains the benefits of taking a gap year:

Personal Benefits:

• Better communication skills
• Creative problem solving
• A better understanding of self / personal reflection
• Understanding of global citizenship
• Cross-cultural understanding
• Increased maturity and self-confidence

Academic Benefits:

• Working in groups
• Re-ignited a sense of curiosity for learning
• Went to college with a purpose
• Gained clarity about career ambitions
• The majority graduated from college in 4 years or less

In addition, this study highlights which experiences were most positive from the students’ perspectives:

• Participation in international programs and team-based programs
• The longer the gap year, the more impact was experienced
• The longer the amount of time spent outside of the U.S. during the gap year had a greater impact
• The number of weeks spent doing more than 30 hours of community service had a greater impact

While taking a gap year is not the right decision for everyone, the benefits are difficult to ignore. Tilting Futures makes a strong case with its top ten list:

1. Experience a different culture
2. Learn a new language
3. Develop new skills
4. Discover a hidden passion
5. Prep for college
6. Improve yourself
7. Live life to the fullest
8. Boost your job prospects
9. Break down classroom walls
10. Have fun and make lasting friendships

I think it would be difficult to find a parent or guardian who wouldn’t want their child to have these life experiences; however, for many, it’s difficult to get over the idea that their student may not go directly to college. Sometimes the best experiences in life are those off of the beaten path.

This article was originally published on April 10, 2018. It was updated on May 28, 2024 for accuracy and comprehensiveness.