Education

• After Year 9
• After Year 11
• After sixth form or college
• Qualifications Explained
• Study skills
• Dropping out of education
• Equal opportunities
• Studying abroad
• Student life
• Gap year

Taking a gap year can be a great way to experience new things and new places.

On this page:

Taking a gap year
What could you gain from a year out?
What are the options?

Taking a gap year

Many students decide to take a year out before going to university and some wait until after they have finished their Degree. Universities welcome students who have taken a year out if they have done something productive and have learnt from the experience. You will need to decide if you are going to apply for a university course and defer entry for a year or apply the following year — as long as you are in the UK to do this! Check out the application dates or speak to your tutors or Connexions PA if you need help.

What could you gain from a year out?

• Experience of a career that interests you or is required for entry on to a course.
• Money from working.
• Experience of travelling, other cultures and learning new languages.
• Learn new skills and gain additional qualifications.
• The experience of something different!

What are the options?

Whether it's in the UK or abroad you could:

• work — paid or voluntary
• study
• travel, or
• a mix of all three!