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The Best Gap Year Programs for After High School

We tapped educational experts to find the most popular gap year programs after high school and got their tips on picking the best option.

EF Gap Year

Worldstrides, where there be dragons, habitat for humanity, raleigh international, irish gap year.

As an alternative to going straight from the halls of high school to the academia of college, many young adults take a gap year as a chance to explore new skills, travel, or volunteer. A gap year is an intentional, focused break between high school and college. During a gap year, young adults can hone in on an interest, gain valuable life experience, and perhaps even earn money.

A gap year can be an excellent option for those who aren't sure they're ready for college or want to have other adventures first. It can also help some determine whether college, trade school, or working right away is best for them.

While a gap year can be formal or informal, gap year programs are more intentionally set up to help young adults determine the next steps and gain on-the-ground experience. You can expect inclusive travel programs to cost many thousands of dollars, covering transportation, lodging, food, and instruction. Most programs have payment plans and fundraising support, and some offer scholarships. Contact the respective programs for exact details.

Read on for a selection of some of the top gap year programs for after high school according to educational experts.

Essentially a "greatest hits" collection from the popular, teen-centric Education First (EF) Tours , the EF Gap Year programs incorporate time in internships, at language schools, and participating in service activities, all in different parts of the world. Students can tailor their semester or year-long program so it best helps them round out the skills they'd like to develop before starting at university.

Some options include cultural immersion in London, Barcelona, and Paris; language instruction in Nice; sustainable development programs in Thailand; internships in Tokyo; and leadership academy at EF's executive education campus at Ashridge House (a literal castle outside of London).

All of this empowers young adults to come home fueled with life-changing experiences and new tools to power lives of fulfillment and positive impact, says EF Gap Year president Christian Meyer.

• Length : Year-long, semester, or 4-week options
• Location : Europe, South Pacific, US and Canada, Asia, Africa
• Focuses : Travel, leadership, language, and cultural immersion

A leader in educational travel and experiential learning, WorldStrides offers gap year programs that include performing arts, language immersion, career exploration, service-learning, study abroad, and sports. "Each of these experiences helps students to see beyond the classroom and see the world—and themselves—in new ways," says CEO Robert Gogel.

In addition, the International Study Abroad (ISA) by WorldStrides gap program contains diverse opportunities and allows participants to "choose their own adventure" in designing their path. Participants can prioritize elements they feel are important to them while fostering personal growth from the security of a community of like-minded travelers.

• Length : From a couple of weeks to a semester
• Location : Europe, US, North America, Asia, Africa, Central America, South America, Oceana
• Focuses : Performing arts, language immersion, sports, service learning, career exploration

If you're looking for an internship program based abroad, look no further than VA Corps . This gap year program, based in Cape Town, South Africa, offers tailor-made internships in a variety of fields, including medicine, psychology, occupational or physical therapy, human rights, political science, media, and business.

The program offers experiential learning, adds an impressive line item to a young person's resume, and helps them build connections with people from all over the world.

• Length : Five to 12 weeks
• Location : South Africa
• Focus : Internships in nearly every professional field

Although the name may sound a little dreamy, Where There Be Dragons is firmly planted in reality, with some of the most in-depth foreign travel programs available to gap year students. It offers political science, history, sustainability, economics, and language immersion in far-flung locales such as Morocco or Nepal as well as those closer to home in spots like the Colorado Basin.

This gap year program offers college credits as part of their programs (check with your college of choice if these will be transferable). This program is one of the most expensive options, but financial aid is available.

• Length : Summer, semester, or independent 6+ week options
• Location : Asia, South America, Central America, Africa, North America
• Focuses : Language immersion and cultural education

For young adults who want to volunteer and spend time helping others, Habitat for Humanity offers several ways to be of service in their "Youth" programs.

The most immersive option for young adults looking for gap year programs after high school is Habitat for Humanity's joint program with AmeriCorps. These collaborative programs offer positions at local Habitat organizations across the US. In this program, participants can learn and develop new skills while serving a critical role in helping Habitat create homes for those in need. There is a small living allowance for those who qualify.

• Length : One year
• Location : United States
• Focus : Community development and housing

Speaking of AmeriCorps , this program is another top option for those looking for service opportunities. The program offers the following options:

• Traditional: Paired with local nonprofits for hands-on work
• FEMA: Disaster preparedness and recovery
• Summer of Service: Environmental stewardship and affordable housing
• Forest: Fire prevention, reforestation

While most programs are limited to people 18 years of age and up, some do accept applications from 16 and 17 year olds. A modest living allowance is offered.

• Length : Summer, 10 months, full-year options
• Focuses : Nonprofit, humanitarian, environmental

Raleigh International is a favorite gap year option of Ed Zamora , a college advisor and director at Principia Prep. This student-led volunteer gap year program has global opportunities for sustainable development in remote areas such as South Africa and Costa Rica.

Raleigh International calls their programs "expeditions," and their goal is to help young people challenge themselves, disconnect from technology, reconnect with people and nature, and make an impact. Service options include:

• Improving primary and secondary school facilities
• Infrastructure maintenance and wildlife research
• Adventure leadership treks
• Building sustainable food gardens
• Alien plant removal, tree planting, and combatting soil erosion

Note that there is both an application process and a cost (although not as high as the educational travel companies).

• Length : Four to 10 weeks
• Location : Costa Rica, South Africa
• Focuses : Community, environmental, adventure leadership

This UK-based organization offers volunteer travel options in group "structured" environments and independent plans (a rarity). The Leap creates hands-on opportunities to travel while working on sustainability projects . This program caters to youth looking for gap year programs after high school, mid-life adventurers, and corporate volunteers.

Gap year program opportunities include community efforts like building jiko stoves or teaching in a local school; environmental efforts like helping baby turtles reach the ocean; and adventuring through treks, mountain hikes, and river rafting.

Note that these options incur tuition costs.

• Length : Three, four, or five weeks
• Location : Columbia, Peru, Costa Rica, Kenya, Vietnam

Workaway encourages cultural exchange through work, from WOOFing (WOrking On a Farm) in British Columbia to teaching art to children in Peru. These opportunities are less structured than regular gap year programs after high school, and your teen will be working in exchange for room and board. But this can be a good option if they want to see the world for free.

Workaway is a platform that offers a way for travelers to connect with hosts all over the world. To start, your teen will create a profile and connect with hosts looking for their skills. There are more than 50,000 projects available across 170 countries with opportunities in everything from farming and gardening to animal and child care.

Workaway is best for young adults who don't need a structured program and are comfortable being on their own.

• Length : Varies by project (most request a minimum of a week stay with placements lasting up to a year or more)
• Location : Global
• Focuses : Travel, community

HELPX is a site similar to Workaway: It lists hosts who need volunteer help, allowing students to travel the world for free in exchange for their work. However, one advanced option on HELPX is connecting with possible companions of the same age and interests to create a support network.

HELPX offers many different types of stays, including farmstays, homestays, ranches, lodges, and hostels. The typical arrangement is for helpers to work four hours daily in exchange for free accommodation and meals. This program is best for independent students who are comfortable traveling independently.

• Length : Varies by situation and is mutually agreed on between host and helper
• Focuses : Travel, community, farm work

This study abroad and gap year program takes place at sea! This semester-long voyage focuses on hands-on learning, formal education, and adventure. At Sea|Mester , you are a crew member of a sailboat on voyages that can include routes like South Africa to the Caribbean, the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, Fiji to Bali, and the Virgin Islands to Antigua.

This gap year program boasts USF-accredited academic courses, which may be transferable to a college or university (though check ahead of time with the university of your choice to be sure). You'll also gain certification in specific skills like scuba diving, sailing, safety, and skipper and crew training.

• Length : 20 to 90 days
• Location : Atlantic Ocean
• Focuses : Sailing, boating, travel

Irish Gap Year is Europe's only Gap Year Association-accredited program. Its goal is to help develop independent and resilient young people through community integration, immersion in nature, experiential education, exploration of the arts and creativity, meaningful travel, volunteering, and cultural exchange.

This program has an Irish and European program option, and within each, you can choose one that focuses on leadership, exploring, or arts and culture. Depending on your chosen program, you could spend days working with local artists, exploring off-the-beaten tracks, and visiting museums and national parks.

• Length : Around 28 to 80 days
• Location : Ireland, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Croatia, Italy, Slovenia
• Focus : Travel, community, adventure, arts

More Resources

To find even more gap year options, check out Go Abroad . This online search engine and clearing house for international travel programs offers all the information about gap year programs after high school at your fingertips. For additional resources, including how to get started and self-plan a gap year, check out with the Gap Year Association , which provides a wealth of information.

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Gap Year Programs

A “gap year” is a common way that recent graduates take a break from academics between undergraduate and graduate school. Typically one or two years, this gap allows you to use the time between your undergraduate and graduate school to:

Gain practical experience

Explore a new industry or personal interest

Live abroad or someplace new

Prepare for graduate school exams

The information below will help you plan for and make the most of your gap year(s).

Benefits of Taking a Gap Year

There are many reasons why it might make sense to pursue a gap year before moving on to your next academic experience. For example, gap years may allow you to:

Volunteer to give back to a cause that’s important to you

Live abroad and gain global awareness

Build skills and experience relevant to the field you’d like to pursue, such as working in a hospital or research institution, or serving as a paralegal

Test a new field to learn about your own interests and values

• Prepare for exams such as the GRE, LSAT, or MCAT

Things to Think About Before Taking a Gap Year

Whether you choose a formal gap year program, search for gap year–friendly jobs, or create your own experience, there are many factors to consider as you research and apply to opportunities:

Time commitment: How much time can you commit and what is the expectation from the program or employer? Will your gap year experience provide the flexibility to complete any application requirements or interviews you may have for graduate school?

Finances:  How much money do you need to support yourself, considering cost of living and your personal financial responsibilities (such as student loans or support for family members)? What health insurance options do you have? Are you looking to save up money for graduate school, and if so, how much? If you’re looking at programs, are they paid, volunteer, or fee-based? Do you have money saved to help support you during your gap year?

Career interests: How might this work connect to future career goals?

Location: In what types of environments would you like to live and work? For example, are you interested in going abroad or staying in your home country? Being in a rural area or an urban one? Living with a community of other gap year participants, on your own, or with a host family?

• Program reputation:  If participating in a program, what have previous participants said about the program, and how reputable is the sponsoring organization?

Sample Gap Year Programs and Additional Resources

Volunteer programs.

Global Volunteers : Founded with the goal of helping to establish a foundation for peace through mutual international understanding.

Peace Corps : Service opportunity for motivated changemakers to immerse themselves in a community abroad, working side by side with local leaders to tackle the most pressing challenges of our generation.

United Nations Volunteers : Works to mobilize volunteers for the United Nations System and to advocate for the importance of volunteerism in development worldwide.

Volunteers for Peace : Offers placement in over 3000 volunteer projects in more than 100 countries throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Paid or Stipend-Based Programs

AmeriCorps : Network of national service programs that engage Americans each year in intensive service to meet critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment.

Citizen Schools Teaching Fellowship : Service program offering a two-year leadership development experience.

City Hall Fellows : Offers a systemic solution to the leadership crisis threatening American cities.

City Year : Unites young people of all backgrounds for a year of full-time service, giving them skills and opportunities to change the world.

Green Corps: Environmental Leadership Training Program : One-year, full-time, paid Environmental Leadership Training Program provides training to launch a career in organizing and activism.

HealthCorps : Proactive health movement to address health inequities through educational leadership, programs, and service learning. They offer two-year coordinator positions.

NYC Teaching Fellows : Recruits and prepares dedicated individuals to become teachers who raise student achievement in the New York City classrooms that need them most.

NYC Urban Fellows Program : Nine-month program combining full-time employment in New York City government with a comprehensive seminar series exploring the mechanics of local government.

Princeton in Asia : Provides young Americans with various opportunities to live and work as year-long interns in Asia.

Teach For America : National teacher corps of recent college graduates who commit two years to teach and to effect change in under-resourced urban and rural public.

Teach for All : Inspired by Teach for America, Teach For All’s network partners have placed teachers in many countries around the world—Australia, China, Estonia, Germany, India, Latvia, Lebanon, Peru, and the UK.

Venture for America :  Offers talented college graduates the opportunity to work for two years at a promising start-up or early-stage company in the US.

Fee-Based Programs

Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs : Full-time, nine month, graduate-level experiential leadership training program that prepares diverse, intelligent and committed individuals for effective and ethical leadership in the public affairs arena.

Additional Resources

Undergraduate Research and Fellowships : Learn about structured scholarships or fellowship opportunities.

Preprofessional Advising Listservs : Sign up for the CSA pre-health or pre-law listservs to learn about gap-year positions.

Idealist : Search for jobs, internships and volunteering in non-profits and social justice-based organizations.

Go Abroad : Resources to study, volunteer, or intern abroad.

International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA)  : A nonprofit accrediting body with searchable member programs.

For more information and an international job board, please see our  Going Global page.

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Post-Baccalaureate and Gap-Year Research Programs

Many NBB graduates work in research full-time after graduation. For some, this is a one- or two-year experience before moving on to something else, and for others it is a long-term career option.

Also, many graduate programs (MS and PhD) are research-based but not listed here specifically.

Research Opportunites

The nih irta program.

The NIH IRTA program is the most common, short-term, postbaccelaurate research program supporing NBB majors.  There are many different opportunities in this program and the NBB students have unanimously found it to be an excellent training experience.

PREP Participating Institutions

Bobby jones scholarship.

The Bobby Jones Scholarship is a university-wide scholarship that is open to students in any school .   It can be awarded to graduating seniors or to graduate students who are in the early stages of their post-graduate work.

Neuroscience (MRES)

The MRes in Neuroscience is designed to provide advanced training in neuroscience research. Students conduct a year-long research project and learn relevant techniques and skills through course work.

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Considering a gap year, should you take time off.

Each year, between 90 and 130 students defer their matriculation to Harvard College, and they report their experiences to be uniformly positive.  We encourage admitted students to defer enrollment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way - provided they do not enroll in a degree-granting program at another college. Deferrals for two years are also considered for such purposes as military or religious service or under other unique circumstances, and subject to the approval of the admissions committee.

Frequently Asked Questions

May i defer my admission once admitted.

Yes. Students admitted in the Early Action and Regular Decision rounds can choose to defer their admission by selecting the "I defer" option in their admitted student reply form.

We want to do everything possible to help the students we enroll make the most of their opportunities, avoiding the much reported "burnout" phenomenon that can keep them from reaching their full potential. Our overall graduation rate of 98%, among the highest in the nation, is perhaps due in part to the fact that so many students take time off, before or during college.

The admissions committee encourages admitted students to defer enrollment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way - provided they do not enroll in a degree-granting program at another college. Deferrals for two years are also considered for such purposes as military or religious service or under other unique circumstances, and subject to the approval of the admissions committee.

Each year, between 90 and 130 students defer their matriculation to the College, and they report their experiences to be uniformly positive. After graduation, large numbers of Harvard students take time off before beginning work or graduate school. Read more about taking time off .

If a student has already replied as enrolling, but has since changed their mind and would like to defer, they may contact the Admissions Office or submit the Request to Defer form on the Admitted Students Website explaining the request for a deferral as soon as possible and in any event by the end of June.

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Time Out or Burn Out for the Next Generation

The article Time Out or Burn Out for the Next Generation was originally published in the New York Times on December 6, 2000.

William Fitzsimmons Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, Harvard College

Marlyn E. McGrath Director of Admissions, Harvard College

Charles Ducey Adjunct Lecturer in Psychology, Harvard Graduate School of Education

College admissions officers, especially those who admitted the parents of today’s applicants, have an unusual vantage point from which to observe changes from one generation to the next. Many of us are concerned that the pressures on today’s students seem far more intense than those placed on previous generations. College admission—the chance to position oneself for “success” through the acquisition of the “right” college degree—looms large for increasing numbers of students. Particularly because selective colleges are perceived to be part of the problem, we want to do everything possible to help the students we enroll make the most of their opportunities, avoiding the much-reported “burnout” phenomenon that can keep them from reaching their full potential.

Of course, the quest for college admission is only one aspect of a much larger syndrome driving many students today. Stories about the latest twenty-something multimillionaires, the astronomical salaries for athletes and pop-music stars, and the often staggering compensation packages for CEOs only stimulate the frenzied search for the brass ring. More than ever, students (and their parents) seek to emulate those who win the “top prizes” and the accompanying disproportionate rewards.

From the cradle on… The chase for the prize begins early, and some reports sound hyperbolic. Anecdotes abound of infants serenaded with classical music to enhance their mental powers; toddlers overwhelmed with computers and “educational” toys; “experts” guilt-tripping parents by telling them that their children will be hopelessly behind by age three or four if they don’t follow myriad prescribed strategies.

Consultants are paid thousands of dollars to prepare toddlers for the “all- important” interview and observed play-time that will determine admission to the “right” pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, or primary school—thereby presumably ensuring admission to the right high school, college, graduate school, and so on. The consultant will teach the child to maintain eye contact in the interview and to demonstrate both leadership and sharing during the observed play sequence. The competition for admission to some of the pre-k, kindergarten, and grammar schools can be intense—statistically more difficult (with lower admission rates) than Harvard.

Once in the “right” school, students are pushed along by teachers, by outside tutors and, if they stumble, by learning specialists who will help them approach their studies in the most efficient manner. The school day continues well into the night with structured study time and drills. The pressure can be relentless, even from well-intentioned parents. For the most part, they simply want the best for their children who, they fear, will be left by the wayside by other high achievers.

Sports, music, dance, and other recreational activities used to provide a welcome break, a time to relax and unwind. No more: training for college scholarships—or professional contracts—begins early, even in grammar school. Professional instruction, summer camps, and weekly practice and game schedules consume many hours and nearly all free time. Student and family commuting logistics become byzantine in their complexity. Even “play-time” is often structured and enriched with just the right mix of appropriate playmates and educational activities. Summer vacations have become a thing of the past. The pace of the day and the year allows little time simply “to be a kid”—or, it seems, to develop into a complete human being.

The middle school/high school fast track By high school, the pressure intensifies. Students start to specialize in one activity even to the exclusion of other pursuits. Athletes, dancers, musicians and others begin to define themselves by their chosen activity as they try to perfect their new-found talents and identities.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has warned of possible physical and psychological damage that can result from specializing in a sport prematurely. For every success story, there are countless other less happy results. Some students participate in programs that take up as much time as school. Fast-track athletic teams compete or practice most days—with weekend-consuming road games, and national or international schedules during summers and vacations. A serious athlete or musician or dancer may change schools for a better athletic program, even moving far away from home to do so, and perhaps to an academically weaker school.

Academic demands also ratchet up, supported by special tutors and the beginnings of SAT prep in middle school. In high school, SAT prep becomes a way of life for some students, with night and weekend sessions. The “right” SAT tutors may command several hundred dollars per hour, and can be engaged to live during the summer at or near their tutees’ beach houses. Summer “cram schools” for the SATs are increasingly common, as are summer school sessions at the best prep schools and universities, some beginning in middle school.

The quest for the right college Professional college counselors (either independent or school-based) appear on the scene early, sometimes in middle school, to begin to structure students’ academic and extracurricular profiles for entrance to the “right” college. At its best, such advice can be helpful in assessing talents, goals, and making “mid-course corrections” that can make a real difference in students’ lives. From a more cynical perspective, such advice steers students toward travel abroad, community service, or other activities solely to enhance college application essays or interviews. Such services may command thousands of dollars, and assistance in preparing applications ranges from appropriate to plagiaristic. Videotaped mock college interviews are features of some packages, as are guided tours of colleges. An array of services start in ninth grade (“or seventh or eighth grade for no extra charge”) for fees of in the thousands of dollars. More specific services include Essay Review, which offers “brainstorming session and as many revisions as necessary.” Such services can add to, rather than alleviate, the stress of the normal expectations of school, community, and family life. Their “products,” such as overly-slick essays, can even hurt a student’s admissions chances as they can sometimes be easy to spot in the admissions process.

The pressure of gaining entrance to the most selective colleges is commonly blamed for much of the stress we observe. But those of us who work in college admissions recognize that college is only one of many destinations in the fast lane. The accumulation of “credentials” simply continues to intensify as the stakes increase. The “right” graduate school looms after college, and the “right” sequence of jobs is next. Such attainments make it possible to live in the “right” kinds of communities and to begin the job of bringing up the following generation, one that might need to vault even higher hurdles.

The fallout Faced with the fast pace of growing up today, some students are clearly distressed, engaging in binge drinking and other self-destructive behaviors. Counseling services of secondary schools and colleges have expanded in response to greatly increased demand. It is common to encounter even the most successful students, who have won all the “prizes,” stepping back and wondering if it was all worth it. Professionals in their thirties and forties - physicians, lawyers, academics, business people and others - sometimes give the impression that they are dazed survivors of some bewildering life-long boot-camp. Some say they ended up in their profession because of someone else’s expectations, or that they simply drifted into it without pausing to think whether they really loved their work. Often they say they missed their youth entirely, never living in the present, always pursuing some ill-defined future goal.

Some early remedies What can be done to help? Fortunately this young fast-track generation itself offers ideas that can reduce stress and prevent burnout. In college application essays and interviews, in conversations and counseling sessions with current college students, and in discussions with alumni/ae, many current students perceive the value of taking time out. Such a “time out” can take many forms. It can be very brief or last for a year or more. It can be structured or unstructured, and directed toward career, academic or purely personal pursuits. Most fundamentally, it is a time to step back and reflect, to gain perspective on personal values and goals, or to gain needed life experience in a setting separate from and independent of one’s accustomed pressures and expectations.

For the years during high school, here is some of the advice students have offered:

Families should allow for “down-time” during vacations, weekends, and during the week at mealtimes or at any other break in the action. The fabric of family life is already under assault from the demands of parents’ increasingly stressful jobs. Parents, some of whom experienced the first wave of fast-lane childhoods themselves, are often distressed by how little uninterrupted free time they have to devote to their children. Bring summer back. Summer need not be totally consumed by highly structured programs, such as summer schools, travel programs, or athletic camps. While such activities can be wonderful in many ways, they can also add to stress by assembling “super peers” who set nearly impossible standards. Activities in which one can develop at one’s own pace can be much more pleasant and helpful. An old-fashioned summer job that provides a contrast to the school year or allows students to meet others of differing backgrounds, ages, and life experiences is often invaluable in providing psychological downtime and a window on future possibilities. Students need ample free time to reflect, to recreate (i.e. to “re-create” themselves without the driving pressure to achieve as an influence), and to gather strength for the school year ahead. Choose a high school (or a college) not simply by “brand name” or reputation but because it is the best fit. A school with a slower pace or a different academic or extracurricular focus can be a better match for certain students in the long run.

Using the senior year The senior year of high school presents some special challenges and opportunities. The U.S. Department of Education’s Commission on the High School Senior Year calls the senior year a “lost opportunity that we need to reclaim.” While some students try to get by with as little work as possible, others find it the most stressful year of their lives, with more demanding courses, more leadership responsibilities in their extracurricular activities, and the added burden of applying to college and taking the requisite college entrance tests.

There is often great tension about choosing and being admitted to the “right” college. Students and their families react to this particular stress in a number of ways, and many want the college admissions process over with as soon as possible.

While early admission programs may be right for some students, many observers have begun to ask whether too many students are applying early. They wonder if students are taking enough time and care to select colleges that best match their academic interests, career goals, and personal aspirations. Some have even used the word “hysteria” to describe some students who, perhaps influenced by peer pressure, want to apply early “somewhere”—without considering which colleges might be best for them. Some students have concluded that it is a virtual necessity to apply early, whatever the circumstances, for fear of being left behind.

We concur with these observers that early admissions programs have not always served students well. In addition, they are not equally available to all students given the great disparities in guidance counseling and other resources in the United States and elsewhere. We eliminated our early admission program in recent years in part to encourage our students to use their secondary school years in the most effective manner possible. By focusing on the opportunities available in secondary school rather than on applying “early” to college, students will also benefit by avoiding the worst aspects of the college application frenzy that students often find so stressful. While we have restored early admission to meet the rising demand for this option—and have instituted changes to encourage students from modest economic backgrounds to apply early—we hope all students will use early admission in a thoughtful manner and only when it is appropriate for their individual needs.

Some high schools help their seniors in the transition from high school to college by allowing a slightly reduced course load, along with alternatives such as community service, research projects, and internships that might help with career exploration.

Colleges can help themselves as well as their prospective students by declaring (and demonstrating) that they are not judged simply by the number of AP or other advanced credits amassed at the end of senior year. For example, those students with particular strengths in the humanities and social sciences often believe colleges expect them to take calculus when they might be much better served by another algebra course or statistics—or another language—instead. No matter which path they take, students who can find ways to reduce stress and use the senior year well arrive at college much better prepared to take full advantage of their first year of college.

Taking time off before or during college Perhaps the best way of all to get the full benefit of a “time-off” is to postpone entrance to college for a year. For more than four decades, Harvard has recommended this option, indeed proposing it in the letter of admission. Now more than one hundred students defer college until the next year.

The results have been uniformly positive. Harvard’s daily student newspaper, The Crimson, reported (5/19/2000) that students who had taken a year off found the experience “so valuable that they would advise all Harvard students to consider it.” Harvard’s overall graduation rate of 97 percent is among the highest in the nation, perhaps in part because so many students take time off. One student, noting that the majority of her friends will simply spend eight consecutive terms at Harvard, “wondered if they ever get the chance to catch their breath.”

During her year off, the student quoted above toured South America with an ice-skating company and later took a trip to Russia. Another interviewed in the article worked with a growing e-commerce company (in which the staff grew from 10 to 100 during the year) and backpacked around Europe for six months.

Some options for the interim year Members of one recent class participated in the following activities, and more, in the interim year: drama, figure skating, health-care, archeological exploration, kibbutz life, language study, mineralogical research, missionary work, music, non-profit groups, child welfare programs, political campaigns, rebuilding schools, special needs volunteering, sports, steel drumming, storytelling, swing dance, university courses, and writing—to name some chosen at random. They took their interim year in the following locales: Belize, Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Denmark, Ecuador, France, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mongolia, Nepal, Philippines, Scandinavia, Scotland, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Uruguay, United States and Zimbabwe.

Many students divide their year into several segments of work, travel, or study. Not all can afford to travel or to take part in exotic activities. A number have served in the military or other national or international service programs. Some remain at home, working, taking part-time courses, interning, and still finding the time to read books they have never had time to fit into their schedules or begin to write the “great American novel.” Others have been able to forge closer ties with parents or grandparents from whom they may have drifted away during the hectic pace of the high-school years.

Reactions to the year off Students taking a year off prior to Harvard are doing what students from the U.K. do with their so-called “gap year.” Other countries have mandatory military service for varying periods of time. Regardless of why they took the year off or what they did, students are effusive in their praise. Many speak of their year away as a “life-altering” experience or a “turning point,” and most feel that its full value can never be measured and will pay dividends the rest of their lives. Many come to college with new visions of their academic plans, their extracurricular pursuits, the intangibles they hoped to gain in college, and the career possibilities they observed in their year away. Virtually all would do it again.

Nevertheless, taking time off can be a daunting prospect for students and their parents. Students often want to follow friends on safer and more familiar paths. Parents worry that their sons and daughters will be sidetracked from college, and may never enroll. Both fear that taking time off can cause students to “fall behind” or lose their study skills irrevocably. That fear is rarely justified. High school counselors, college administrators, and others who work with students taking time off can help with reassurance that the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Occasionally students are admitted to Harvard or other colleges in part because they accomplished something unusual during a year off. While no one should take a year off simply to gain admission to a particular college, time away almost never makes one a less desirable candidate or less well prepared for college.

Achieving balance While the focus here has been on ways to relieve stress for today’s high-achieving generation, we should note that in fact most students are coping well with pressure, even thriving. This remarkable time offers opportunities that previous generations (and students in many other countries today) could not imagine. Colleges, for example, now reach out through their recruiting programs to talented students from every economic background. Financial aid makes college a reality for outstanding students on a scale that was not possible before. Graduation rates at leading American colleges and universities remain extremely high and students express satisfaction with their college experiences.

It is important to remember that access to higher education around the world is at present limited to a lucky few. Those fortunate enough to enjoy such a privilege have a responsibility to use their talents to provide expanded opportunities for future generations. Our young alumni and alumnae have been successful in meeting the formidable challenges they have faced since college. But they continue to remind us that the rigors of competing in the new world economy impose high standards on everyone. They do not (nor do we) tell today’s students to “slack off” and achieve less. Recent graduates advise today’s high school and college students to prepare themselves emotionally as well as academically.

It is worth noting that extraordinary achievements are never based on emulating someone else’s achievements, but on some unmeasurable combination of (a) marching to one’s own specific and unique drummer and (b) accidentally—perhaps unconsciously—doing something that captures the Zeitgeist in new and unexpected ways. Those whom parents often want their children to emulate either used their own ingenuity to give the public a product or image it desperately wanted, or happened to catch a hot wave of the time, or (ideally) both.

While their achievement stands as an ideal for which others strive, others cannot by definition duplicate that achievement because it is induplicable. So the problem can often be well-meaning but misguided parents who try to mold their children into an image of success they value; and their children, being moldable as they are, often get on board and go along with the program before they have any capacity to make such a choice for themselves. Yet the paradox is that the only road to real success is to become more fully oneself, to succeed in the field and on the terms that one defines for oneself.

So the pressures placed on many children probably have the unintended effect of delaying a child’s finding herself and succeeding on her own terms. We should all have the right to gape with awe at Yo-Yo Ma’s musical triumphs, while at the same time achieving our own more modest ones in our own fields and ways: finding hominid bones that shift our conception of paleontology, or composing smooth jazz melody, or tracing the rise and decline of Roman gentes. Parents and students alike profit from redefining success as fulfillment of the student’s own aims, even those yet to be discovered. Burnout is an inevitable result of trying to live up to alien goals. Time out can promote discovery of one’s own passions.

The fact remains that there is something very different about growing up today. Some students and families are suffering from the frenetic pace, while others are coping but enjoying their lives less than they would like. Even those who are doing extraordinarily well, the “happy warriors” of today’s ultra-competitive landscape, are in danger of emerging a bit less human as they try to keep up with what may be increasingly unrealistic expectations.

The good news is that students themselves offer helpful suggestions about how best to handle the challenges they face. In part because of all the obstacles that confront them from the earliest stages of their lives, this generation has emerged generally more mature, sophisticated, and, at their best, better prepared to cope with the demands of the twenty-first century. They learn at an early age how to cope with both victory and defeat and with the formidable demands placed on them by adults and peers. Yet many would benefit from a pause in their demanding lives. Let us hope that more of them will take some sort of time out before burnout becomes the hallmark of their generation.

2000 - Revised 2017

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The gap year refers to a period of time, usually one or two years after graduation, when students take a break from education to work or volunteer before continuing with graduate/professional school or starting a longer-term job. These short-term experiences help students explore career paths and gain experience. In some cases, these experiences will turn into longer-term.

• Think about your motivation : Why do you want to take a gap year or two? Have you thoroughly thought about how this might fit with your future goals?
• Define your goals : Are you interested in expanding your resume, living independently, clarifying your interests, or experiencing a different culture?
• Research : What are your options?
• Plan ahead : Planning ahead is useful in order to avoid missing deadlines for applications or fellowships. Give yourself ample time to update any international travel documents you may need, save money or book trips in advance.

Sample Lists of CGCC Fellowships

Common Good & Creative Careers (CGCC), an initiative within OCS, has compiled the following sample lists of fellowships to allow students to explore a variety of options for their gap year. Click the links below to learn more about fellowships based on your category of interest: Education Fellowships Environment Fellowships Farming Fellowships Fellowship Search Engines Health Research / Pre-Health Fellowships Law / Legal Services Fellowships Nonprofit Leadership Fellowships Public Affairs / Public Service Fellowships Public Health / Health Policy Fellowships Religiously Affiliated Service Fellowships Social Justice Fellowships

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Best of Gap-Year Programs

Often taken right after high school, a gap year is a structured break from formal academics that affords young people a chance to travel, volunteer, intern, study abroad, or further explore a personal area of interest. Gap-year programs come in many forms and exist on every continent, and offer nearly endless possibilities for adventure and learning. 

To simplify your search, our Best of Gap-Year Programs page allows you to sort programs by eight distinct categories. Each of the selected programs rates highly in the important factors of pedagogical integrity, leadership, support, safety, ethicality, value, and communication, among others.

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Cow House Studios

• Wexford, Ireland
• Artist-run school set on a 180-acre farm in Ireland. 
• Can study painting, drawing, sculpture, digital media, and photography. 
• Studio visits with Irish artists and curators.
• Min. Session Length: 12 weeks
• Min. Costs: ~$17,000

• Worcester, Massachusetts
• Participants gain real-world work experience, explore career interests, and build critical life skills.
• Partners with Clark University so students can also earn college credits. 
• A great option for students with learning differences and/or ADD/ADHD.
• Min. Session Length: 4 months (semester); 9 months (full year)
• Min Costs: $12,000 (semester); $23,500 (full year)

Absolute Internship

• Virtual, Barcelona, Beijing, Hong Kong, Lisbon, London, Madrid, Paris, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Stockholm, Tokyo
• Offers on-site, remote, and high school internship programs. 
• Many locations across Europe and Asia. 
• Explore a wealth of career advice and cross-cultural insights.
• Min. Session Length: 4–24 weeks
• Min Costs: $2,000–$10,000

Global Citizen Year’s Take Action Lab Experience

• Cape Town, South Africa
• Partnered with schools such as BU, Colby, Colorado College, Denison, and  Duke. 
• Work 4 days a week with an organization focused on advancing human rights. 
• Program begins with a Foundations course to help you understand the social and historical context of the country.
• Length: 4 months
• Min. Costs: $21,000
• GYA Status: Accredited

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• Taiwan, Indonesia, South America, Nepal, Southeast Asia, China, Bhutan, Guatemala, Western US, Morocco, West Africa, Southern US
• Partnered with 50+ schools and universities around the world. 
• Slow down and experience day-to-day live in communities around the globe. 
• Hands-on management; programs not subcontracted.
• Min. Costs: $6,750 - $18,950

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What Gap Year Statistics Tell Us About The Impact of Gap Year Programs on College Success

May 15, 2023

As high school graduation approaches, many students face the difficult decision of whether to go straight to college or take a gap year .

While gap years are considered common practice for new high school graduates in many countries abroad, more and more students and colleges in the United States are seeing the benefits of taking a gap year between high school and college. Gap years are now widely recognized as an effective way for young people to grow, learn, and better prepare for higher education and beyond.

So what exactly are gap years, and how do they impact college success? 

Gap year statistics collected over the past decade show us that students taking a break from the traditional high-school-to-college pipeline tend to have greater self-confidence, increased personal awareness, improved communication skills, better mental health, and a higher rate of success as undergraduates than those who do not.

Let's explore how gap years can positively impact college success, and what factors students should consider when planning their own gap year experience.

The Benefits of a Productive Gap Year for Gap Year Students

When you take a gap year, you're embarking on a journey to discover more about who you are, what matters to you, your place in this world, and what the world needs.

The personal growth, maturity, experience, and unique perspective gained through the experiential learning that takes place during meaningful gap years can enhance a student’s college admissions essay or interview, as well as future job applications.

Gain Unique Perspective & Experience Personal Growth

Many gap year participants decide to use their year off between high school and college as a time to explore their passions and interests and develop a greater sense of self-awareness.

By taking a step back from the academic pressures of high school, students can focus on their personal goals and values. This can lead to a greater sense of purpose and direction, which can be valuable in all areas of life. Because of this self-exploration, many students who take a gap year are more confident when they choose their major or career path upon returning to school.

Bolster Your Resume with Work Experience

Another benefit of taking a gap year is the opportunity to gain work experience and explore career interests. Whether students choose to complete an internship, volunteer, or take experiential education courses with NOLS, they can strengthen their work ethic and gain practical experience that will benefit them before and after college graduation.

Enhance Your Cultural Awareness

Gap years abroad allow students to gain firsthand experience of different ways of life. NOLS offers a variety of international gap year programs that will broaden your understanding of the world, develop important cross-cultural skills, or maybe even learn a foreign language.

Explore the remote mountains and coastlines of Patagonia while immersing yourself in the Spanish language and Patagonian rancher culture through the Patagonia Gap Year at NOLS. Or, learn one or more wilderness skills such as mountaineering or keelboat sailing during our New Zealand Semester.

Reignite Your Academic Momentum

By pursuing specific areas of interest during their gap year, students can gain valuable knowledge and increased motivation and focus needed to propel their education forward. Not to mention, speaking passionately about your gap year experience can help impress college admissions officers.

Statistics That Show The Relationship Between Gap Years and College Success

Research has shown that students who take a gap year are more likely to graduate on time and have higher GPAs than those who do not. Additionally, students who take a gap year report feeling more confident and better prepared for college and their future careers.

Student Engagement and Satisfaction

Meaningful and productive gap years are linked to greater undergraduate student engagement and satisfaction. Many students report feeling more focused and motivated after taking a gap year and more engaged in their coursework and extracurricular activities.

Academic Performance

Multiple studies have shown that students who take a gap year tend to perform better academically than their non-gap-year peers. 

The Gap Year Association cites the work of a former Dean of Admissions at Middlebury College, Robert Clagett, who designed a new methodological approach to tracking the over/under academic performance (GPA) for gap year students. Studies using this approach show that students opting to take a gap year significantly outperform their peers in college with positive effects lasting throughout their four years at school.

This relationship between gap year experience and collegiate academic performance could be because gap year students have had a chance to mature and gain life experience before starting college, which can help them be more focused and motivated in their studies.

Retention and Graduation Rates

While parents may be concerned that a gap year may decrease their child’s academic momentum, research shows that around 90% of gap year participants attend college within a year of their break .

Taking a gap year has also been linked to higher retention and college graduation rates. Findings suggest that this is because gap year students report feeling more focused and motivated toward their goals when they start college, and they have a better sense of what they want to achieve during their time in school and beyond. 

In addition, some gap year programs, like the programs offered through NOLS, offer students a chance to earn transferable academic credit, which can help motivate students to continue with academics. 

Post-Graduation & Career Outcomes

Students who took a gap year have constantly reported having a better sense of what matters to them, more clarity in terms of the career path that they want to take, and, later on in life, extreme satisfaction with their jobs. [Karl Haigler & Rae Nelson, The Gap Year Advantage, independent study of 280 Gap Year students between 1997 – 2006]

This could be because gap year students have had a chance to gain real-world experience through work, internships, or volunteer opportunities during their gap year. 

Additionally, the 2020 Gap Year Association Survey Report states that 95% of survey participants said their gap year experience prepared them to be successful in their next step, whether that be college, graduate school, or the workforce.

College Success with NOLS Gap Year Programs

At NOLS, we offer various gap year programs designed to provide students with transformative experiences that will set them apart from other college applicants. Our programs are focused on self-discovery, cultural awareness, and practical skills that benefit young adults in all areas of life. 

Whether you choose to volunteer abroad, complete an internship through NOLS, travel abroad, or stay domestic, a gap year with NOLS can be a valuable investment toward your academic and future success.

Earn Academic Credit with NOLS

At NOLS, we offer gap year courses that allow you to earn transferable high school or college credit during your gap year expedition!

More than 400 colleges and universities nationwide have accepted the University of Utah credit earned through a NOLS gap year course, and many more grant their own credit in partnership with our programs. Just make sure you apply for credit through NOLS before beginning your gap year program!

Gap Year Programs at NOLS

Semester in patagonia.

Our Semester in Patagonia is a 90-day program that takes place in the Aysén and Magallanes regions of Chilean Patagonia. During this program, students will have the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Patagonia while learning about the culture and history of the region.

In addition to participating in activities such as backpacking, sea kayaking, and mountaineering, students will have plenty of opportunities to practice Spanish language skills, learn how local ranchers work the land, and continue to build on the strong relationships with the local communities NOLS has developed over the years.

Semester in India

Our Semester in India offers wilderness and cultural-based gap year experiences including opportunities to explore and challenge yourself through wilderness adventure activities such as backpacking through alpine villages, mountaineering on high-altitude glaciers, or rafting on the Kali River. In addition to challenging yourself in the Indian wilderness, you’ll have a chance to immerse yourself in the culture of Kumaon communities.

NOLS Rocky Mountains

For those who are interested in staying in the United States, our Semester in the Rockies is a great fit. We offer a 90-day Semester in the Rockies as well as shorter courses that range from two weeks to 30 days.

Begin in the foothills of the Wind River Range in Lander, Wyoming, with opportunities to explore the mountains, canyons, and rivers of Wyoming, South Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada.

During this program, students will have the opportunity to backpack, rock climb, and whitewater raft in some of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the country. In addition to outdoor activities, students will also take courses in leadership, communication, and environmental studies.

Applying to NOLS

Get started with your gap year plans and earn academic credit with NOLS!

Schedule a meeting with our academic advisor to learn more about transferring credits earned through NOLS from Western Colorado University or the University of Utah. Don't forget to review the steps for getting your credit and ask about AmeriCorps and 529 Plan instructions.

Plan ahead and ensure your gap year is not only meaningful but also a valuable investment in your academic success.

NOLS is a nonprofit global wilderness school that seeks to help you step forward boldly as a leader.

Recommended

Any year can be a gap year.

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I am not entirely sure what I meant when I claimed to “hate nature” for the majority of my life.

But I said it. Often. My dad used to bribe me up mountains with M&Ms every 100 steps. He threatened to send me on NOLS courses during my high school summers when I complained of boredom.

What Is A Gap Year? Is It Right For You? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Updated: Jan 1, 2024, 1:48pm

Students seeking learning experiences outside of the classroom may consider taking a gap year . This break from school allows learners to develop a better awareness of themselves, including their professional and educational aspirations. Personal development during such a crucial period can offer helpful insights that can inform students’ future academic and professional careers, as well as their personal lives.

Are you interested in taking a gap year? You might want to ask yourself a few questions first.

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What Is a Gap Year?

A gap year is a period during which students spend time away from their formal education to engage in other experiences, such as travel. Many such learners take a full year off between high school and college, as recent high school graduates often feel overwhelmed by the pressure to choose a college and career path at such a young age. A gap year can offer extra time for these students to step back and consider their options.

A gap year can be any length of time and occur at any point in a student’s academic career. For example, some learners may take time off during college or between their undergraduate and graduate studies.

Students can use a gap year to participate in learning experiences outside of the classroom and focus on their personal growth. This period allows learners to explore their interests and educational and professional goals.

What Are the Benefits of a Gap Year?

A gap year offers opportunities for development during a critical transition period. Students can travel, pursue employment, volunteer or simply take time off to reduce their stress.

Taking a gap year can also help students become more independent and confident upon returning to their formal education . These qualities allow learners to get the most out of their education and feel more assured that they are making the right investments in themselves.

Top Questions to Ask Yourself Before Taking a Gap Year

Before deciding whether or not a gap year is practical, ask yourself the following questions:

What are the benefits to you of taking a gap year?

A gap year is an opportunity to rest, reflect and plan. For example, high school graduates who are unsure about choosing the right school can use a gap year for campus visits and interviews.

Following the stressors of high school, many students experience burnout and want to begin college on the right foot. Taking a gap year between high school and college allows learners to address mental health concerns without the added pressure of college.

What do you plan to do with your gap year?

Would you use your gap year to work, or to rest? Would you prefer to stay home or travel? Figure out how you’d most like to spend your time off school, and start making a plan. For example, if you’d like to spend your gap year traveling, start researching airfare and lodging and making a budget for your trips.

Likewise, if you want to work or volunteer during your gap year, remember that it will take time to fill out applications and receive responses. Plan ahead to research available opportunities, and apply as early as possible.

What are you planning to learn or accomplish during your gap year?

Some learners take a gap year to rest, recharge and focus on themselves. Others set concrete professional or personal goals to set themselves up for success when they take the next step in their education. Knowing what you want to get out of your gap year can help you determine what to put into it.

For example, gap-year students who travel can become immersed in different cultures around the world. Leaving home and spending time away from friends and family can help build independence and an understanding of the world. If you want to pursue self-actualization during your gap year, you might consider traveling.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to get your foot in the door professionally, you may use your gap year for an internship or entry-level employment .

Can you make a gap year work financially?

It’s critical to plan for the potential cost of your gap year. Students who plan to work during their gap year may have less to worry about, though student loans still accrue interest during this period. Likewise, learners who earn income may qualify for less need-based aid upon returning to school.

Learners who want to travel or complete volunteer work must understand the financial implications of taking a gap year. Without consistent income or savings, younger students taking time between high school and college may rack up credit card debt during this period. This could have long-term effects that go beyond college.

Some schools offer financial aid to gap-year students to help fund their year off. This aid allows learners to pursue their gap year goals without worrying about income. Still, most financial aid requires careful planning for eventual repayment. Before taking a break in your education, make sure to examine whether you can pull it off financially.

Do you plan to attend college later? Should you plan to apply later or ask for a referral?

If you are confident in your college choice, you can apply for admission and then request deferment for a year when your application is accepted. Otherwise, you might wait to apply until after or during your gap year, in which case you can spend your time off researching more universities, programs and financial aid opportunities.

Do you have a plan to transition out of your gap year?

While your gap year might take you in a professional or personal direction you originally hadn’t planned for, it’s important to plan for a transition back into education. Research indicates that 90% of students who take a break in education re-enrolled after a year, and careful planning can make this transition a smooth one.

Going back to school requires you to take a big-picture look at your education and gap year. Students taking time off from school should ensure that gap year experiences like employment, travel or volunteer work do not overlap with re-enrollment.

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Best Gap Year Programs for Students After High School

After many consecutive years of formal education, it is unsurprising why so many American students opt to take a gap year before committing to a career, undergraduate degree, or higher degree. 

A gap year is exactly what it sounds like: a year, or extended period of time, where someone presses “pause” on a trajectory that can, at times, feel automatic and predictable, but might not be the best one for a person, depending on their circumstances. 

There are many reasons why people decide to take a gap year. It’s an excellent opportunity to gain work experience and make money to save up for future academic or career plans. 

Let’s say you didn’t find your passion until late in high school or college – a gap year can create time and space to experiment with that new passion and decide your next course of action.

Most gap year programs include a travel or cultural component. Sometimes getting out of one’s own country – especially if they’ve never traveled outside of it – can provide illuminating perspective. 

Many gap year programs also include an element of philanthropic service, and many more contain an adventurous aspect. For example, some gap year attendees may complete their program with several certifications or trainings to prepare them to be outdoor guides.

Whether you want to learn a language, transition to a new country, or simply live your life to the fullest, a gap year will connect you with like-minded people and valuable resources. 

We have compiled a list of 10 of the best gap year programs in the United States. Generally, these programs are open to participants ages 17-22, meaning those considering a gap year after high school or college can apply. 

EF Gap Year (Multiple International Locations)

EF Gap Years are built on different program modules and launch recent graduates worldwide. 

The organization’s 25-week gap year is undoubtedly one of the lengthiest on this list, bringing participants through three global destinations where they’ll immerse themselves in language learning, acts of service, and internship work.

The EF Gap Year runs from September 25 to May 3. Following orientation in Boston, gap year participants travel to iconic cities like Barcelona, Paris, Seoul, or Tokyo to participate in language learning. 

A four-week service and sustainability element prompts participants to make a positive impact at the community level – usually somewhere in Peru, Thailand, or the Dominican Republic.

After spending winter break back home, gap year participants jet off to Australia and New Zealand for guided exploration before engaging in an eight-week business initiative in Stockholm, Sweden. 

The experience culminates in a seven-day London leadership academy, where participants consider where they will take their newfound skills and aptitudes.

Where There Be Dragons (Colorado River Basin, USA)

Where There Be Dragons offers a variety of study abroad and gap year programs for people ages 17-22. One of their most exciting offerings takes place back home in the United States via the Colorado River Basin Semester: Sustainability & Resilience in the Western US.

The Colorado River Basin Semester is a gap year program that lasts just over ten weeks. Recent graduates can apply for the fall or spring, with both cohorts including 12 students and three guides. 

Courses are for college credit and include topics like colonization and western influences, principles of economics, and leadership across borders.

Activities revolve around permaculture and sustainability on local farms. Participants will hike, travel by train, and float down the Colorado River to experience diverse ecosystems in the western part of the country. 

After the end of the program, gap year attendees will emerge with a passion for engaging with food justice movements and a deeper understanding of how climate change will compel major US industries to evolve.

Irish Gap Adventure & Leadership Program (Ireland)

A gap year is not only an excellent time to learn new skills – it can also provide a great opportunity to experience a new country. 

While many of the gap year programs on this list take participants through multiple international locations, the Irish Gap Adventure & Leadership Program is ideal for someone who prefers to immerse themselves deeper into a community while learning valuable life skills.

Designed for graduates seeking to forge outdoor careers, the Irish Gap Year lasts 75 days and is open for spring or fall dates. 

In addition to touring some of Ireland’s neatest cities, gap year participants will complete a three-day wilderness expedition and 80 hours of volunteer service.

What does a typical day look like? After getting ready, participants might take a surf lesson at Tullan Strand in Bundoran before engaging in a post-lunch leadership workshop with team challenges. 

At some point during the session, students are charged with what is considered the “capstone” of the experience: organizing a five-day road trip from any point in Ireland. 

CityGAP at The Living City Project (New York City, USA)

Arguably the most exciting gap year program in New York City, CityGAP turns the Big Apple into a studio/classroom. 

Participants in The Living City Project seek a social, intimate, and outdoor experience with similar thinkers and adventure-seekers ages 17-22. 

Each semester lasts 14 weeks, starting with an orientation of NYC’s social landscape, neighborhoods, and institutions. 

There are five Living City lenses that scholars take on throughout the program duration. In The Form of the City, participants investigate how cities are designed and how compatible urban architecture is with our fast-evolving technology. 

The City of Memory lens is equally interesting, challenging participants to consider how cities build and rebuild their identities throughout time. 

During a 10-12 week project cycle, individuals and small teams start with a question or challenge, move into the research and inquiry phase supplemented by exploration and expeditions, and then analyze their findings. 

From there, they will design and exhibit a podcast, documentary, public art project, policy proposal, or other artifact representing a solution to their original question or challenge. Prior questions have included, “How will Broadway reopen in response to the COVID-19 shutdown?” and “How does zoning drive development in NYC and what are the alternatives?”

Gapforce Trekforce Expedition Leader Training (Multiple International Locations)

The Trekforce Expedition Leader Training is like the “Inception” of gap year programs. Definitely not a relaxing holiday option, Gapforce engages participants in a rigorous adventure travel and outdoor training curriculum to essentially prepare them to lead gap year programs themselves. 

The GapForce journey starts in the Welsh mountains before progressing to Costa Rican and Panamanian jungles. In Wales, participants will complete introductory navigation coursework and obtain their First Aid certificate while working as a team. 

In Central America, expect to learn how to build fires, wield machetes, and navigate through the rainforest – alone! The three-day solo survival trek is a threshold for all Gapforce expedition guides.

Completers of the gap year program will leave with proficiency in kayaking, snorkeling, and cycling, as well as managing medical incidents in the wilderness. 

Ongoing feedback will help participants understand their strengths and areas of needed improvement. Many who finish the course become employed with Gapforce leading other groups around the world!

Sea|Mester Study Abroad at Sea (Multiple International Locations)

Take part in one of the few gap year programs set aboard a working sailboat! Gap-year programs with Sea|Mester run from 20- to 90-day voyages all over the world, especially in the Caribbean islands. 

The immersion provides the chance to earn certifications in SCUBA, sailing, and other navigational skills. Most participants have just graduated high school or are in their sophomore or junior years of college, with an average age range of 17-22.

Days at sea change like the tides! The program structure can generally be categorized into “passage days” and “shore days.” On passage days, student crew members operate the ship as it moves to new ports or locales. Participants may attend classes, complete jobs, or watch for navigational challenges.

During shore days, gap year participants are docked, engaging in thrilling activities like diving, spelunking, sightseeing, or trekking. 

Suppose you want to pursue a one-of-a-kind career on the water. In that case, you can obtain your rescue diver, divemaster, emergency first response, and other certifications during the Sea|Mester gap year.

Raleigh International (Costa Rica, Tanzania, Nepal)

Raleigh International stands out from other gap year programs on this list in that it is most heavily steeped in volunteer service. 

Catering to 17-24-year-olds, a Raleigh International experience merges sustainable travel and philanthropy in Tanzania, Nepal, and Costa Rica. 

Participants reside in more remote communities not frequently visited by tourists and work on meaningful projects that can enhance the well-being of locals.

What kind of specific projects might gap year attendees collaborate on? 

In Costa Rica, they facilitate bringing clean water to rural villages, while in Tanzania, they might build sanitary toilets for school building use. Philanthropic work is juxtaposed with cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, and language learning.

The most popular gap year program runs for ten weeks, engaging participants in topics like natural resource management, water sanitation, and community development. Since the program’s inception, nearly 50,000 participants from over 90 countries have served with Raleigh International.

High Mountain Institute Adventure (North American West; South American Patagonia Region)

Unsurprisingly, outdoor skill-building is at the center of a High Mountain Institute Adventure ! Gap-year participants will advance in rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and other activities frequently found in outdoor adventure curricula. 

Students will learn to travel comfortably for extended periods, navigate challenging domestic and international terrain, and assess hazards native to their current landscape.

An environmental studies and service component challenges participants to consider certain essential questions, like “Can we restore the landscape to its natural condition?” and “How do we reconcile competing values within natural resource management?” 

Leadership focus drives personal growth as attendees participate in “evening circles,” where they discuss their insights and findings. 

The flagship program is the HMI Gap semester, wherein participants travel for 80 days alongside a small group of peers and guides, all while learning outdoor adventure skills, conservation principles, and leadership attributes. Several gap year program options occur in the American West and Patagonia (South America).

Gap Year at The School of The New York Times (New York City, USA)

Another excellent option in one of the greatest cities in the world – the Gap Year at The School of the NY Times is open to participants ages 18-21 who are either deferring college or taking time away from school to consider their next steps. 

Programs run for six or 12 weeks and prompt attendees to strengthen transferable skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and cultural humility.

The 12-week option runs from September 10 to December 8, and two six-week terms are housed within that same time frame. 

Each week, the curriculum focuses on a specific section of the NY Times to compel further inquiry into an important global or social topic. 

A service learning component is typically paired with each investigation, such as volunteering to coach youth athletes in different skill areas or volunteering at an art museum.

The modules in the gap year program include lectures, readings, guest speakers, round-table discussions, and a culminating project. Completers walk away from their gap year program with a more inclusive worldview and advanced management skills in coordinating complex projects.

Carpe Diem Education Innovative Gap Year Programs (Multiple International Locations)

Don’t just seize the day at Carpe Diem Education – seize the year through one of the organization’s Innovative Gap Year Programs across five continents! 

This gap year option is ideal for graduates yearning for cultural immersion. 

At the same time, students can earn college credit, if needed, while participating in a gap semester program.

Available placements differ yearly, and the 2023-2024 list looks exciting! Take on a program in India, Italy/Greece, or Hawai’i, for example. 

The Semester in Spain & Morocco challenges participants to investigate human migration patterns and cultural preservation efforts in one of the world’s most beautiful areas.

Regardless of your chosen location, all gap year attendees receive a focused volunteer placement (FVP). 

Prior examples include promoting health initiatives for preventing HIV in South Africa, rehabilitating manatee populations along the Belize coast, and many more opportunities. 

The group semester runs from September 20 to November 29 before a winter break; afterward, participants complete their independent FVP semester from January through April.

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Gap Year Benefits, Pros & Cons: Is It Worth It?

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The concept of a post-high school gap year originated in the UK in the 1960s, although the idea can be traced back to 13th century Europe, when young scholars would set off to explore the world and expand their knowledge. Gap years have long been considered a rite of passage for young people seeking personal and intellectual growth before continuing their formal studies or entering the workforce.

Though they have a long history, recent statistics show that gap years may be gaining in popularity. According to Inside Higher Ed , “While hard to track, there are estimates that 3 percent of freshmen take a gap year. Since the pandemic, internet searches for gap years have skyrocketed.”

So what goes into planning a gap year? Is it worth it to take time off between high school and college? It’s important to consider all the possibilities and implications as you plan your next step.

What Is a Gap Year?

A gap year is a period of time during which someone chooses to take a break from formal education in pursuit of travel, work, volunteerism, or any number of extracurricular activities. Gap years typically fall between high school graduation and before a student has been accepted into college, but can also refer to a break during, after, or between college, graduate school, or even jobs. Gap years can be shorter or longer than 12 months and allow individuals time to explore the world, gain life experience, and decide on their future educational or career path.

During a gap year, people often have the flexibility to embark on a wide range of endeavors, depending on their personal needs and goals. Common activities include traveling, exploring new places to live, pursuing important hobbies or projects, working to save money for college or other expenses, participating in work exchange programs, interning, volunteering, or building a professional portfolio.

Many people dedicate their gap year to reflection and self-discovery. This time between formal obligations allows one to step out of the traditional academic track, gain practical experiences, and better understand one’s passions and aspirations. By doing so, many people feel they can make more informed decisions about their next move.

People can organize their own gap year by planning and arranging the activities they wish to pursue, or participate in specialized gap year programs that provide structured opportunities and support .

Thinking of taking a gap year? Explore the Semester at Sea Gap Year Program Overview to discover the possibilities.

Who Should Take a Gap Year?

The best part about a gap year is that there is no right or wrong way to do it! Anyone can take a gap year at any time, though most formal gap year programs are geared toward students between high school and college. There are also programs that accept recent undergraduates and adult or “lifelong learners.”

Gap years can be especially valuable for:

• Recent high school graduates who are undecided about their college major or career path. A gap year allows young people to gain life experiences, explore different fields, and reflect on their interests and passions before committing to a specific academic or career track.
• Young people who want to practice independence. Taking a gap year often involves managing one’s own schedule, finances, and decision-making, which can foster personal growth and self-reliance.
• Individuals seeking a broader worldview. A gap year filled with new experiences provides opportunities to step out of one’s comfort zone, face new challenges, and learn valuable life skills while interacting with diverse communities.
• Anyone seeking like-minded peers. Gap year organizations can facilitate connections between peers who are also planning their next big life move, creating a supportive, lasting network of people with shared interests and aspirations.

No matter where you fall in your life’s journey, a well-planned gap year can be a transformative experience for anyone who seeks personal development, self-discovery, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world.

Pros of Taking a Gap Year

There are many reasons why young people around the world choose to take a gap year, since it offers a wide range of benefits. 

New opportunities: Outside of the structure of school, a gap year gives you the chance to explore new opportunities and passions that may influence your future decisions.

Life skills: When you venture further afield, you can acquire essential life skills that might not be taught in a classroom, including adaptability, problem-solving, critical thinking, effective communication, and maintaining objectivity.

Personal growth: Planning your own gap year activities promotes independence, resourcefulness, confidence, and self-awareness.

Work experience: Without school-related obligations, young gap year takers can gain valuable work experience, enhancing their résumé and future career prospects.

Community contributions: Taking time to engage in volunteer or humanitarian efforts helps you make a positive impact in others’ lives.

Broader worldview: Encountering other cultures or life experiences when traveling broadens your perspective and fosters appreciation for diversity.

Extracurricular enrichment: Despite being a break from formal education, a gap year can still support your academic, professional, and personal development through classes or hands-on activities .

Recharge and renewal: After years of schooling, a gap year offers a well-deserved break to build energy and enthusiasm before embarking on further studies or work.

Save money: If you’re taking a year off to work before starting school again, you can save up to support future endeavors.

Real-world understanding: Drawing upon your prior knowledge in the real world helps you better understand classroom-based learning and its practical applications.

Expanded network: Depending on the kinds of activities you pursue, you’ll likely meet people from a wide range of backgrounds during your gap year. Meeting new people can expand your professional network, potentially opening doors for the future.

Clearer goals: Taking time off allows you to refine your goals for college, career, and life, so you can make more informed decisions when the time comes.

Potential Downsides to Taking a Gap Year

While the benefits far outweigh the negatives of taking a gap year, there are some potential drawbacks if the time is not used wisely. 

Difficult transitions: After a gap year, some incoming college students may find it challenging to get back into the routine of studying. Some may even struggle to regain lapsed study habits or an interest in academics.

Feeling left out: Some young people might feel that they have fallen behind their peers who did not take a gap year, especially if their gap year experiences don’t directly align with their future academic or career goals. 

Stalled momentum: College is not for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. But if a college degree is part of your long-term career plan, taking time off can lead to a loss of momentum or enthusiasm for restarting your academic journey.

Cost: A gap year can be expensive, especially if it involves extensive travel or participating in specialized programs. Many programs do offer needs-based financial aid to cover all or part of the experience. Regardless, be sure to budget wisely so you have enough funds left over for your post-gap year plans. 

Perceived lack of value: Some academic advisors, family members, or potential employers may not view gap years as valuable if the experiences don’t directly contribute to a résumé or a long-term career. While this view is entirely subjective, it may impact your prospects with certain schools or employers. 

Lack of planning: Without proper planning, a gap year could feel like wasted time. Some people may be frustrated if they feel they aren’t using their time off effectively.

It’s essential for those considering a gap year to carefully weigh these potential downsides against the benefits and to plan their activities thoughtfully. A well-structured gap year with clear goals and objectives can avoid many of these potential drawbacks and make the experience more enriching and valuable in the long run. 

If you’re considering taking a gap year, discuss the decision with your academic advisors, family, or mentors to ensure they understand the value and that the opportunity aligns with your personal and academic goals.

Taking a Gap Year During College

Though not as common as a gap year between high school and college, some college students choose to take time off in the middle of their studies. However, doing so can be more challenging compared to taking a gap year before starting college. 

U.S. universities typically have strict scheduling requirements, and students are expected to be enrolled every semester to maintain their status as matriculating students. Many colleges also have specific policies around academic progress that require students to maintain a high GPA to retain their financial aid or other types of assistance.

While it may be difficult to take a traditional gap year in the middle of college, there are some circumstances where students can more easily take time off:

Transferring schools: If a student is transferring to a different college or university, they may be able to take some time off between institutions. However, it’s important to carefully review the specific policies and procedures for transferring credits and readmission beforehand.

Academic leave: Some universities have academic leave of absence policies that allow students to take a break from their studies for a specified period. During this time, students typically maintain their status as enrolled students, making it easier to return to the same institution at a later date.

Deferring enrollment: In certain cases, students may be able to defer their initial enrollment for a semester or a year. This is often granted for specific reasons, such as medical or personal circumstances. Deferring enrollment allows students to start college at a later date without having to reapply.

Students considering a gap year during college should have a thorough understanding of their university’s policies and procedures related to leaves of absence, readmission, and financial aid. Students should communicate with their academic advisors and relevant university offices to ensure they have a clear plan for their time off and a smooth transition back to their studies.

Key Considerations for Taking a Gap Year

To make the most of your gap year, keep several important considerations in mind:

Make sure everyone is on the same page. It’s essential for families of college-bound students to understand that a gap year is a valid and valuable option for growth. Taking time off doesn’t mean the student is stepping away from college altogether; rather, it offers them a chance to gain valuable experiences before continuing their formal education or entering the workforce.

Plan, plan, and plan some more. Planning ahead is crucial to ensure a meaningful and fulfilling gap year experience (and avoid wasting time). While you don’t need to plan your time down to the day, at least determine the types of activities you want to pursue, the best times of year for these activities, and your goals for the overall experience. 

Consider travel implications. If you’re wondering whether to travel during your gap year, consider that it might not be as easy to travel extensively after college or once you are employed full-time. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore new places and cultures while you have the freedom to do so — it will no doubt be worth the expense.

Approach the experience with intention. Regardless of the reason for taking a gap year, view it as a valuable experience that can shape your future positively. Make the most of the time by choosing activities that align with your interests and goals.

Avoid procrastination. Don’t pursue a gap year simply to delay applying to schools or because someone else thinks it’s a good idea. Set clear goals and intentions around your decision.

Be prepared to reflect on your experience. Admissions officers and prospective employers will be interested to hear about what you did during your gap year and how your experiences impacted you. Being able to communicate the value of your gap year can showcase your growth and maturity.

How to Plan a Gap Year

A gap year can certainly be a transformative experience, but it requires thoughtful planning and intentionality. It should not be seen as a break from responsibilities, but as an opportunity to gain valuable experiences and personal growth before moving forward with your educational or career path. 

Your planning process may vary, but here are some general steps to cover as you chart your course:

Plan ahead: Plan as much of your gap year as possible ahead of time, even starting before you’ve graduated high school. Map out the activities and experiences you want to have, and consider breaking up your time like a college semester to add structure to your year.

Research gap year programs: If you’re interested in participating in organized gap year programs, research organizations that specialize in arranging such experiences. Some are volunteer-based, others are academic in nature, and still others are designed for the pure joy of travel. Many programs charge fees to cover participants’ expenses, which adds to the overall cost of taking time off.

Explore funding options: Examine the costs associated with your time off. If you’re not already working or are on a budget, consider work exchange or service programs that might offer a stipend for living expenses. 

Confirm college admission deferral: If you have already been admitted to college, check with the admissions office about their policy on deferring admission. Ensure that you understand the process and any deadlines for deferral — you don’t want to return from your gap year adventures only to find that your enrollment status has been suspended. 

Check scholarship availability: If you have been awarded scholarships for college, inquire whether they are still available after a gap year. Some scholarships may have specific guidelines regarding deferral or gap years.

Secure references and resources for the future: Before embarking on your gap year, request any academic transcripts, references, letters of recommendation, or other resources from your former school. You will need them to apply for colleges and scholarships, and it’s best to have them ready when you return. 

Stay organized: Keep track of important deadlines, documents, and contacts related to your gap year. Being organized will help ensure a smooth transition into and out of your time off.

Remain flexible: While planning is essential, be open to adapting your plans based on new opportunities or changing circumstances that may arise during your gap year.

When you embark on a gap year experience with Semester at Sea , you get to explore new cultures, experience daily life on board a ship, and even start to earn credits toward your future degree. Gap year travelers are a welcome addition to nearly every voyage, adding to the already diverse range of voyagers that attend our floating college. 

We are committed to ensuring each voyager — whether they are a current college student, gap year voyager, or lifelong learner — has access to the resources they need to make the most of their experience. Connect with an admissions counselor today for more information.

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About the Gap Year Association

Photo: Outward Bound

The Gap Year Association is a community committed to advancing the gap year movement through standards of best practice, professional development, research, resources, and advocacy with the ultimate goal of empowering more people to access transformative gap year experiences .

We envision a future where gap year experiences are widely accessible and recognized as vital to personal, professional, and educational development.

We want to see more students taking intentional time away from the classroom — before accruing college debt, starting their careers, and/or pursuing other life paths — in order to expand perspective, purpose, and personal growth. Research shows that taking an intentional gap year increases college graduation rates, improves college GPAs, increases participation in campus activities, and increases career satisfaction. 

The Gap Year Association (GYA) is the Standards Development Organization (SDO) for gap year education in the U.S. as recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission. GYA is the only national nonprofit working to coordinate the growing gap year movement. As a public benefit not-for-profit member association, we pursue this work in a way that benefits our members as well as the general public.

The work of the GYA revolves around four core areas: (1) Research, (2) Equity & Access, (3) Resources, and (4) Standards & Accreditation. In addition to our foundational work as the SDO for gap year education, we also:

• Advance gap year research through surveys and systematic data collection by GYA’s Research Committee
• Work to promote scholarships and inclusivity efforts within our membership and the broader gap year community, guided by the belief that all gap year students should have access to financial aid and clear college/career pathways
• Provide valuable professional development opportunities for professionals in the gap year field and related industries.

GYA Celebrated 10 Years in 2022!

Check out our 10th Anniversary Impact Report for a glimpse into the first ten years of GYA’s work as a nonprofit organization, starting with its inception as the Standards Development Organization (SDO) for Gap Year Education in the U.S.

Partners in Our Vision Include

The Gap Year Association is a community committed to advancing the gap year movement through standards of best practice, professional development, research, resources, and advocacy with the ultimate goal of empowering more people to access transformative gap year experiences.

Copyright © 2023 Gap Year Association

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