Should I Take A Gap Year?

5th January 2024 Ellen Conning Study, Travel

Thinking of pressing pause before diving into university or your next big life step? A gap year can be a game-changing opportunity, or a risky detour. Whether you’re craving adventure, planning to work, or simply need time to regroup, this guide breaks down the pros and cons of taking a gap year, what to expect, and how to make the most of it.

What Is A Gap Year?

A gap year is a break from formal education, typically before or after university. People do all sorts of things during gap years, from travelling, work experience, learning something new or dedicating time to volunteering.

From backpacking across Asia, exploring the Amazon rainforest, or taking an internship abroad, how you spend your gap year is up to you. Gap years can help you grow personally, professionally, and emotionally before starting work or going to university.

How Long Is A Gap Year?

A gap year usually lasts 6-12 months. This depends on what you’re doing and often times a summer abroad or internships can offer the same benefits.

When Should I Take A Gap Year?

Before University

Most students opt for a gap year after finishing secondary school and before starting university. According to a study from TeachingAbroad, an average of 29,920 students defer university to take a gap year. This is often an ideal time, as you’ve already secured your place at university, so it makes a great time to go off and explore the world.

During University

Can you take a gap year during university? Yes, you can. These are often called intermission or a leave of absence and can be helpful for those experiencing burnout, wanting to pursue a unique opportunity, or facing personal circumstances. However, it’s essential to consider the risk of falling behind your peers.

Instead of taking a gap year during your studies, some courses allow you to take an internship abroad or to study abroad for a whole year, which is a great alternative. Why not use the summer holidays to work or travel abroad? Programmes like the Turing Scheme offer university student internships or study placements in other countries.

Related: How to Get a Summer Internship

After University

Graduated and not sure what comes next? A gap year after university can give you the breathing space to reflect, travel and prepare for your next move. Whether it’s entering the job market, starting postgrad studies or exploring alternative paths, gap years are great to develop your skills and travel before taking on long-term commitments.

Should I Take A Gap Year Or Apply Through Clearing?

Didn’t get the first-choice university you wanted? You might wonder whether to take a gap year or apply through clearing. The good news is you don’t have to choose. Even if you’re tempted by the idea of taking a year out, applying through clearing keeps your options open.

Applying through clearing can secure your place, and you can always defer once you accept to take a gap year. This removes the pressure of reapplying next year. This way, you can lock in your place at university and have the time to take a gap year. Or, like we stated before, you can take a gap year during your studies or afterwards, whatever you choose.

If you choose to study in the capital, we offer a wide range of student accommodation in London near major universities. So, you don’t have to worry about where to live, even if university-owned halls are full through clearing.

What Are The Benefits Of Gap Years?

A gap year can offer more than just a break – it can be transformational. Here are some of the most common benefits:

1. Learning A New Craft Or Skill

Taking a gap year can provide the perfect opportunity to dive into learning a skill or craft you’ve always been curious about. Whether it’s painting, coding, or baking sourdough bread, exploring a new hobby can be immensely satisfying and broaden your horizons.

2. Saving Money For Uni

A gap year can be a strategic move to squirrel away some funds for your upcoming university journey. Working during this time can help you build a financial cushion, making your academic experience less financially stressful.

3. Improving Language Skills

Immersing yourself in a new culture during your gap year can be an excellent language-learning opportunity. Living in a place where the language is spoken daily can significantly enhance your proficiency and confidence in that language.

4. Boosting Confidence And Independence

Stepping out of your comfort zone and navigating a new environment during your gap year can boost your confidence and independence. Meeting new people, facing challenges, and making decisions on your own can be empowering.

5. Work Experience

Taking a gap year, whether it’s before or after university, you can explore work experience and internships. These can strengthen your specific skills for your desired career if you know what you want to after your studies. if you don’t know what you want to do in the future, work experience is a great way to have a trial run and it looks good on your CV.

6. Raising Cultural Awareness

Experiencing diverse cultures firsthand during your gap year can significantly broaden your cultural awareness. It allows you to appreciate different perspectives, traditions, and ways of life, fostering a more global mindset.

7. Helping Others In Need

Volunteering or contributing to social causes during your gap year allows you to make a positive impact on communities in need. It’s a chance to give back, learn about societal issues, and develop empathy and compassion.

8. Gives Time For Personal Reflection

A gap year offers a rare moment of pause, allowing you to reflect on your life, aspirations, and goals. It’s an opportunity to gain clarity on what you truly want from life and how you can align your future decisions accordingly.

Cons Of Taking A Gap Year

Despite the many upsides, gap years aren’t always ideal. Poor planning or lack of motivation can lead to wasted time and regret.

Here are some of the potential downsides to consider:

It can be expensive – travel costs, accommodation, insurance and living expenses can add up.
You might lose academic momentum – after a year off, returning to study can be challenging and you may struggle to adjust to deadlines, essays and exams.
Lack of structure can hurt progress – a poorly organised gap year without clear goals may not deliver the outcomes you hoped for.
Social setbacks – you may feel out of sync with friends who go straight to university or graduate earlier.

Do Universities Look Down On Gap Years?

No, not at all. In fact, many universities see them as a sign of maturity. especially if your gap year was spent constructively, such as through work experience, internships, or volunteering, as these can build your skills.

Is It Hard To Apply For University After A Gap Year?

Not usually, especially if you’ve already secured a deferred offer. If you haven’t gotten a place yet but will apply afterwards, explain how your gap year helped you grow and prepare you for university.

Is A Gap Year Right For You?

Taking a gap year can be rewarding if you plan it wisely. Whether deferring, applying through clearing, reassessing your options, or chasing a lifelong dream, it’s a chance to explore, grow and prepare for the future. Whether you take a gap year or not, remember that your journey is uniquely yours. Just make sure to be clear about your goals, set a realistic budget, and make every moment count.

And if you’re choosing to study or take an internship in London for your gap year or summer away, we offer excellent student accommodation that you can view online or book today.