Gap Year Pros and Cons

What is a Gap Year?

A gap year typically lasts from 7-12 months, often taken between high school or university. This time often gives students the opportunity to travel, volunteer, or discover potential work opportunities to gain life experiences, explore interests, and take a break before resuming academic life. 

A gap semester is shorter, usually lasting between 4-6 months. It offers the same possibilities for personal growth, career exploration, and gaining experience, but in a shortened time frame.

Pros and Cons of Taking a Gap Year

The Perfect Time for a Gap Year

Gap Year Between High School and College:

Offers time to explore personal interests, travel, or volunteer before continuing formal education

Gap Year Between College and Graduate School:

 Offers the opportunity to gain work experience, travel, or take a break before furthering academic studies.

Gap Year Between Career Transitions:

Offers time for career exploration, skill-building, and personal time off before pursuing the next career phase or goals.

Retirement or Pre-Retirement:

Offers time to explore hobbies, volunteer, or travel before entering the next chapter of life. 

Is a Gap Year Too Long?

For those who want to experience the same but can't commit to a full year, explore the options of taking a gap semester. A gap semester offers the same opportunities for personal growth, exploration, and gaining experience in a more condensed time frame. 

Is a Gap Year Right For You?

Taking a gap year can be beneficial for growth, adventure, and self-discovery, but it's not for everyone. Here are some key factors to consider before deciding if a gap year is for you. 

A Gap Year Might Be Right for Your If:

• You Need a Break from Academics or Work - If you're feeling burned out or unmotivated,  a gap year is an opportunity to take a break from academics and time to develop new skills before diving into the next stage of your life.

• You Have a Clean Plan - Whether it is travel, volunteering, interning, or working,  having a structured plan can ensure your gap year is productive.

• You Want to Immerse Yourself in New Experiences - Experiencing new cultures, people, and learning real-world skills can be a valuable experience to grow in your goals or career.

• You’re Open to Challenges & Uncertainty - If you enjoy stepping outside of your comfort zone and adapting to new situations, a gap year can be an exciting opportunity. 

• You Can Financially Support It- A gap year can be expensive, so having a savings or budget can help make it sustainable.

Explore our Gap Year Programs Here!

Check Out Real Stories From People Who Took a Gap Year

Jess’s Teaching Internship in Thailand: 

Jess decided to take a gap year before university to grow her experience in working with children. She interned in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where she immersed herself in the local community of Huay Pakoot. Jess found the experience transformative, not only gaining skills in her desired field, but gaining confidence for all aspects of her life. Read More

Manon’s Study and Work Program in Canada:

Manon spent her gap year in Canada, combining her academic knowledge with practical work experience. During her time, she was able to immerse herself in the professional world, gaining valuable hands-on experience and professional experience in a dynamic, multicultural environment. Read More

Chloe’s Marine Biology and Protection Internship in Tenerife:

Chloe spent her time developing her knowledge of marine life in Tenerife where she was able to deepen her skills in data processing, observation, and oral skills. Not only was she able to develop her career skills, but also her interpersonal skills as she improved her English, connected with others, and was immersed in her community. Read more

More Information About Some of Our Gap Year Programs:

• What to do During a Gap Year
• Environmental Gap Year - RealStep 
• Study and Work Abroad Gap Year - RealStep