CONTENTS

1. How do you apply to university if you're taking a gap year?

2. What makes a great gap year?

3. Make your year out count

4. Do universities embrace gap years?

5. What you should do on your gap year

6. What you shouldn’t do on your gap year

There is some planning to do if you are considering a gap year, like when you should apply to university and how your time out will be viewed on your application.

How do you apply to university if you're taking a gap year?

If you're thinking of taking a gap year, you typically have three options:

1. You can apply at the same time as everyone else, but for a ‘deferred entry’ meaning your application will be considered for the following year.

2. You can apply in the following application cycle, after you receive your results. This way you'll know which grade requirements you meet for university.

3. You can request deferment after you have received an offer.

If you're planning to apply to a competitive course, you may find that you're in a stronger position if you apply while on your gap year, with the qualifications you've achieved, rather than applying for deferred entry with predicted grades.

What makes a great gap year?

Gap years are of course meant to be fun, but universities will be looking for you to have achieved something with the time off as well. Here's what makes a gap year stand out:

• Purpose and direction: does your gap year have a clear goal? Will it contribute to your academic aspirations? Maybe you'll volunteer in a field related to your studies or gain work experience that complements your chosen degree.

• Skill development: look for opportunities that develop skills relevant to your studies. For example, learning a new language or volunteering in healthcare for a pre-med student.

• Demonstrated responsibility: taking a gap year to travel independently or volunteer shows responsibility and self-reliance. Even working to save money demonstrates financial responsibility.

Make your year out count

Universities will be interested in what you hope to gain from your gap year experience – this could be earning some money, gaining further experience in a related field, or travelling the world.

• University websites will have advice for making an application with deferred entry.
• If you are gaining vocational experience during your year away, highlight it in your personal statement.
• Go to university open days and get tutor's and student’s views on gap years – you can also ask if the university have any specific policies around deferred entry, or if there's anything you should include in your university application.

Do universities embrace gap years?

Universities appreciate the potential benefits a gap year can bring to their student body.

Here's what they're looking for:

• Increased maturity and focus: students who take a gap year often return with a clearer purpose and a stronger work ethic. This can translate to better academic performance and a more engaged student experience.

• Valuable skills and experience: gap years can be a chance to gain work experience, volunteer, or travel. These experiences can develop communication, problem-solving, and independence skills – all valuable assets for university success.

• Demonstrated initiative and planning: planning a gap year requires initiative and organisation, qualities that universities value in their students.

What you should do on your gap year

Gain some relevant experience

Use this time to gain experience relevant to your desired course and career path. Internships, both local and abroad, can provide valuable hands-on learning in your field.

Volunteering with organisations aligned with your interests allows you to develop transferable skills and build your CV. Even part-time work can be beneficial, teaching you responsibility and teamwork.

By using your gap year to gain relevant experience, you'll arrive at university with a competitive edge and a clearer vision for your future. 

Maintain or improve your skills

Don't let the skills and knowledge you’ve learnt during your A levels get rusty during your gap year. This time can be perfect for maintaining or even sharpening them. Look for opportunities that use and build on your existing strengths.

You could tutor younger students or take online courses to delve deeper into a specific field. It's also a great chance to explore new skills that complement your existing ones. Whatever you’ve chosen to study, practicing your skill will give you an advantage over other students.

By dedicating some time to your skills you'll return from your gap year feeling refreshed and ready to tackle any challenge. 

Earn some money to fund your study

University is expensive and there is now the added pressure of the cost of living affecting students. Using your gap year as an opportunity to save up some money will be viewed positively by admissions tutors.

Saving up a fund for university will reflect well on you and show your social responsibility. 

Spend time 'finding yourself'

A gap year is a chance to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Change your usual routine and delve into experiences that spark your curiosity.

• Volunteer in a new community, pushing yourself outside your comfort zone.
• Travel solo, learning to navigate unfamiliar places and relying on your own resourcefulness.
• Take up a creative pursuit, like writing, painting, or music, and explore hidden depths of your personality and what you love to spend your time doing.
• Embrace the freedom take on different activities and interests.

Through these experiences, you'll gain a deeper understanding of your values, strengths, and what truly ignites your passion.

By the end of your gap year, you'll have a clearer sense of who you are and feel more confident starting university.

What you shouldn’t do on your gap year

Don’t waste your gap year

While you should have lots of fun on your gap year, this isn't just a break; it's a springboard to launch yourself further.

Make a proper plan for what you want to do so that you don’t end up lying around watching streaming services.

Plan out the year, whether it's acquiring job-ready skills, reigniting your academic passions, or embarking on a journey of self-discovery, make your time count. This year is yours to explore, to grow, and to pave the way for a future filled with purpose and direction.

Don’t feel that you must

Universities see the potential of gap years to help students mature, gain valuable experience, and become more engaged learners. However, the decision ultimately rests with you. Don't take a gap year just to please universities or your friends; focus on what will help you grow and prepare for your academic journey.