How to take a gap year

24th June 2024 by Anita Naik

Each year, approximately 29,920 students choose to defer their university courses to take a gap year. For the academic year 2022/23, this number increased to 30,970, reflecting a 28% rise since 2012 but a 15.8% decline from 2021.

The latest annual report by Student Universe, The State of Student and Youth Travel in 2024, surveyed 6,000 students and found that 79% of respondents said they would travel in their gap year primarily to enhance their employability.

Around 87% believe that vocational travel would boost their job prospects, and 86% expressed willingness to volunteer for projects related to their future career goals.

If you're interested in this route, here's what you need to know.

What to do if you are considering a gap year

Start by defining what you want to achieve during your gap year. Whether it's travelling, working, volunteering, or learning new skills. Having clear objectives will help you to make a decision that's right for you. What helps is to research opportunities. Look into various gap year programs, internships, volunteer opportunities, and travel plans.

When you reapply after the gap year, use your personal statement to reflect on what you've learned and how it has prepared you for higher education. Highlight specific experiences that shaped your goals and skills and focus on how these have contributed to your personal growth and readiness for university.

Also, try to ensure that the activities you undertake during your gap year are relevant to your chosen field of study. Explain how these experiences have equipped you with knowledge and skills that will benefit your academic pursuits.

Deferring a firm offer

Regarding your next academic steps, after deciding on a gap[ year always check university policies on deferring your place. Some universities may allow deferral for a year, but confirming this and any specific conditions is important.

When applying to university, you can also indicate if you want to defer your entry. If you decide to defer after receiving an offer, you will need to formally request a deferral from the university.

Usually, you can defer entry by one year, subject to the university or college's approval for your specific course. In these cases, your offer conditions remain unchanged despite the deferred start date, but you need to check this with your university. For instance, if your offer requires achieving AAB in 2024 for a 2025 start, those grades must be met in 2024 to secure your place in 2026.

Can I defer after my results?

You have until the course start date to defer, but ultimately, it's up to the university or college to say whether or not they will hold your place for a year.

Early communication increases the likelihood of their support and retaining your place. With late deferrals, reapplication might be required. Ensure you are confident about your decision since deferring at this stage is final.

Reapplying to UCAS

You can reapply through UCAS the following academic year if a place hasn't been held. Although you won't have school or college support, you can submit your own application for a small fee, just like mature or international students.

After retaking your A levels or equivalent qualifications, you can also apply by following the usual application steps, including submitting grades and a personal statement. UCAS provides a guide to assist with this process.