Should I take a gap year?

Whether you're a current student considering deferring university, or a recent graduate unsure about your next move, a gap year can help you gain valuable experience and skills that can give you a head start in your  career

What is a gap year?

A gap year is a break - typically from a few months to a year - taken between college and university, or sometimes after graduating. During this time, you could travel, volunteer, intern, or work to gain valuable skills to take into your professional life.

The purpose of a gap year is to gain life experience, explore personal interests, and broaden your perspective before continuing with education or getting a job.

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What are the benefits of taking a gap year?

• Develop transferable skills - planning a gap year teaches you budgeting while arranging travel, finding accommodation, and managing your finances all demonstrate your independence. If you're heading abroad for work experience, you'll also develop valuable communication skills and international connections which can be useful for finding a job, as you never know who'll be in a position to offer help.
• Gain work experience - employers value work experience, and a gap year internship or work placement is a perfect way to get started. Be sure to choose an experience relevant to your future career such as working with children if you want to be a teacher, or doing community work if you're pursuing a social care path.
• Save money for future study - working during your gap year can help you save money for university. Even if the pay isn't high, it gives you a taste of financial independence. Some programmes like American summer camps let you earn money for travel after your planned activities.
• Improve your language skills - if you're living in a non-English speaking country, learn some basic phrases and build on them daily. Many companies operate globally, and being multilingual is a huge asset. You could also consider teaching English abroad.
• Time to reflect on your future - a gap year can provide breathing room if you're unsure about university or what to do next. Explore alternatives to university.

Are there disadvantages to taking a gap year?

• Travelling alone can be difficult - this independence can be lonely, especially if you're far from loved ones for the first time. Avoid these feelings by befriending fellow travellers and choosing shared accommodation.
• It can be very expensive - flights, accommodation, food and activities quickly add up. Saving beforehand through fundraising or part-time work, and potentially securing work during your gap year, are crucial for maximising your experience.
• You could lose momentum - taking a gap year after graduation can be a fantastic opportunity for personal and professional growth. However, to maximise its benefits, it's important to structure your time. Align your activities with your long-term goals, set a clear return date, and plan your next steps for when you arrive home.
• You could fall behind - you need to keep your skills and knowledge sharp in your chosen field, even during your gap year. To keep up to date in your subject, choose to do a gap year related to your future studies or career. It's also recommended that you stay up to date on industry news.

Should I defer my university application to take a gap year?

If you're considering deferring your admission, it's essential to explain your reasons to the university admissions office and specify your intentions. It's up to the university to determine whether you can postpone your admission, and they'll take your reasoning and planned activities during the gap year into consideration.

To justify your decision, you should provide evidence that your gap year will be productive and that you'll gain something valuable from it. Consider activities related to your chosen field of study. For subjects like maths and physics that require maintaining knowledge, explain to your tutors how you'll stay up-to-date.

Read more about getting into university.

Can I take a gap year during university?

Taking a gap year during university is generally discouraged. The planning can disrupt your focus, and you may find it difficult to catch up with your classmates when you return.

Time away from your studies might also be seen as a lack of commitment by employers unless you have a good reason to justify it. Think about how you can explain how the knowledge you acquired helped you pass the course when you returned.

You could consider a 'mini gap year' during the summer holidays which will allow you to travel, volunteer, or work abroad - all while staying on track with your course. It may also show employers that you've developed time management skills, organising your trip alongside a full-time degree.

You could also explore the Turing Scheme, which enables university students to embark on an internship abroad for a period of between 4 weeks and 12 months. To find out what else is on offer, search work experience and volunteering opportunities abroad.

Should I take a year out after university?

Taking a gap year after graduating can help you build an impressive CV and acquire the skills employers are looking for in a competitive job market. However, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

For instance, you may be in debt due to your student loan and university living expenses, making it challenging to finance a year-long break. Therefore, it might be more practical to look for a job to earn an income and start paying off your debt.

If you plan to apply for a graduate scheme, timing is crucial. You should plan your gap year while considering the recruitment process and your potential start date.

Returning from a gap year can be overwhelming, particularly if you haven't secured a job or a university place. To avoid feeling lost, it's essential to have a clear plan before you leave.

How do I explain a gap year to potential employers?

With hundreds of people applying for jobs, a gap year can give you a competitive edge. When discussing gaps in your CV during job applications or interviews, it's essential to maintain a positive and confident attitude. Frame your gap year as a decision to gain valuable life experiences that ultimately strengthen your qualifications and make you a more well-rounded candidate.

Emphasise the skills and knowledge you gained during your gap year and link them to the requirements and duties of the positions you're applying for. For example, if you volunteered at a wildlife sanctuary in Africa, evidence the skills you developed to potential employers by saying you 'developed effective communication skills to engage diverse audiences,' or 'dedicated time to develop knowledge of the local ecosystem through independent research'. By showcasing your growth, adaptability, and passion for continuous learning, you'll demonstrate to potential employers that your gap year was not just for fun, but an investment in your personal and professional development.

Find out more

• Explore working abroad.
• Discover how to plan a gap year.