Preparing for a Gap Year
Planning for a gap year is important. While our staff is here to answer any questions you might have, here are some things to consider as you near the end of high school.
Junior Year
- Ask your school counselor about gap year opportunities
- Decide what you want out of a gap year. It helps to define a goal: do you want to learn a new language? Engage in community service? See the world?
- Discuss your thoughts/plans/interests with your parents
- Determine a budget
- Research gap year options
- Determine logistics and deadlines for applying and going on a gap year
Senior Year
November – December
- Submit college applications
January – March
- Submit applications to gap organizations
- Receive acceptance letters from colleges
March – End of April
- Check colleges’ gap year policies
- Discuss deferral options with colleges
- Confirm if scholarships and/or special program acceptances will be honored
By May 1
- Send deposit to chosen college
- Make a formal written request for deferment AFTER accepting admission to chosen college
- Explain why you’re deferring, your goals for the gap year, and why you’re asking for your place to be held
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