Should you take a gap year before applying to university?

A ‘gap year’ typically refers to a period of time whereby a student takes a break from study, which provides the opportunity to gain life experience, for example, through employment or travelling, before committing several years to further education. It is not unusual for gap year students to take more than one year.

Gap years have increased in popularity over the last several years. The number of applicants who have deferred their entry to university in the UK has increased at a steady rate in the last ten years, according to the latest data from UCAS:

The concept of having a break from education for a year or more can be appealing to many students, however, this may not be an option for everyone. In this article, we will discuss the practicalities of a gap year, why it may be beneficial, and why it may be considered a privilege to take a gap year.

Why take a gap year?

Students may take a break between A Levels and university study for various reasons. For some, it is an opportunity to travel, meet new people and experience new cultures and environments. Others may choose employment, in order to gain professional experience, build their CV and earn money.

Some suggestions from the National Careers Service for activities to do during a gap year include:

• Employment
• Volunteer work 
• Work experience
• A year in industry placement
• Travel or work abroad 
• Learning a language
• Taking online courses
• Resit exams or admissions tests.

A break from study can be used for various activities, depending on individual circumstances and opportunities available.

Benefits of a gap year

One of the biggest advantages of a gap year is to allow yourself time to reflect, and decide which path is right for you, both in terms of study options and career prospects. It also allows you to relax after an undoubtedly stressful exam period.

Other benefits include:

• Personal growth - a year may seem like a long time, but it will likely pass by very quickly, and the life experience you can obtain in just 12 months can put you in great stead for your future studies. Communication skills, independence and organisation are just some of the attributes that you can develop in this time which will make a huge difference to your university experience. You can also draw on these personal developments in academic interviews.
• Improved application - students can use this time to retake admissions tests, improve standardised test scores and add projects to their extracurricular activities. Alongside a part time job, for example, this can prove your dedication to admissions officers.
• Building some savings - university can be an expensive endeavour. Using a gap year to gain employment experience and accrue some savings can help fund part of your university expenses. In addition, what you learn during this time can benefit you both personally and academically.

How a gap year can impact your university application

Taking a gap year can have both positive and negative impacts on your application, depending on what you choose to do, and what you learn from it. 

Taking a gap year is inherently expensive, particularly if you choose to travel. While there will always be disparities within a student cohort - including socioeconomic background, for example - it is important to consider how admissions officers may view a decision to take a gap year, and ensure that you can articulate why you chose to do so, how the experience has benefited you, and how you have grown in that time.

Admissions officers want to understand any gaps in study, what you learned during the experience, and how it has made you a more well-rounded student. A student who has taken a year out of study, but is unable to reflect on how this has impacted their personal growth, or appears nonchalant to further study, will not be viewed positively by admissions officers. Universities strive to obtain a diverse, driven and enthusiastic cohort of students, so it is important to be mindful of this when making any decisions regarding a gap year.

Potential setbacks

Lack of academic drive - taking a study break can cause students to lose momentum in their studies. Some may find it difficult to return to an intense study schedule following a prolonged break.

Financial implications - for those not intending to work during their gap year, it is likely that there will be significant costs incurred, particularly if the plan is to travel.

Reduced support from sixth form/college - once you have completed A Levels, it will become more difficult to receive application support from your school. This is important to consider if this is one of the few sources of support available to you.

Visa considerations - be aware of the implications of deferring a university application on your visa. Ensure you are clear on visa application timelines, and plan well in advance.

When might a gap year be a good idea and how to make the most of it

Regardless of your financial and personal situation, it is important to make the most of any opportunity presented to you, and to consider your own needs and ambitions. If you believe that having a break from study is the best option for you, ensure you weigh up the possibilities and consider what you want to gain from this experience. 

As mentioned previously, this time can be used to improve grades or admissions test results. It is important to note that students are advised to apply during the Early Decision/Early Action round and secure a university offer first before deferring and taking a gap year. 

Takeaways

It is important to think strategically about whether a gap year is right for you, and your plan should you choose to take one. Ensure you make the decision based on what best aligns with your aspirations.

The opportunity to have an extended break from studying may not be possible following university, so it is essential to consider the pros and cons before making your final decision. Bear in mind that not every student will have the same opportunities, so if you are in the fortunate position to take a gap year, remember that it is a privilege; make the most of it and ensure you are mindful of how it allows you to grow, and reflect on each experience.

For personalised guidance on your specific situation, A-List advisors have experience with all types of educational pathways, including those involving a gap year. Schedule a free Discovery Session or book a Private Consultation today.