Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Gap Year Adventure
How to start planning your gap year?
Begin by answering some key questions and brainstorming big picture ideas. Get out a piece of paper and find a place free from distractions to think. Spend at least 15 minutes answering these questions:
Why do you want to take a gap year?
If you could do anything what would you do?
Any places you dream of spending time during your gap year?
Do you have a timeline for when you’d like your gap year to begin & end?
Keep coming back to this brainstorming list for the next few weeks - months. Set aside 5-15 minutes per day to plan your gap year, either by brainstorming, researching opportunities online, or talking to people in your community who might support your idea. Hoping to become fluent in French? Talk to your French teacher. Want to explore the arts more in depth? Ask your art teacher about courses or studios to enhance your skills.
TIP: When researching opportunities online, make note of what specific activities or locations most interest you, in addition to program names and websites. You might find that a semester or year-long program that caught your eye is out of your price range, but you could replicate the parts of the experience that most interested you for a shorter time period or in a different location in a way that aligns with your budget.
Budgeting
Don’t put off thinking about your gap year budget for too long. You may find that you need to spend time working and saving to help fund your dream gap year. Have a conversation with your parents or caregivers about how much, if any, they might be willing to contribute to your gap year fund. Calculate how much you have saved, or how much you might be able to earn between now and when your gap year begins. Set up a spreadsheet with your gap year budget and itemized expense lines based on how you hope to spend your gap time.
6 weeks of Independent Travel in Europe:
Airfare $1,400
Lodging $2,700
Meals $1,300
Activities/Spending Money $1,400
Public Transportation $400
Passport $145
Travel Insurance $190
Total $7,535
2 month sustainability internship in Costa Rica:
Airfare & In-country transportation $750
Program Fee (Includes Accommodation & Meals) $1,400
Spending Money $400
Passport $145
Travel Insurance $120
Immunizations & Personal First Aid Kit $120
Total $2,935
It is possible to have a great gap experience, even incorporating some travel, on a budget. Advance planning can be especially helpful, as that gives you more time to save up for more expensive gap experiences later on. You might consider imbedding some work into your gap experience to continue saving up for a winter or spring experience. Opportunities for international paid work are fairly limited for gap year students, though some gappers might consider applying for a Working Holiday Visa for New Zealand or Australia. Work Away is a great way to travel on a budget by working a set number of hours per week in exchange for room and board.
Staying in hostel dorm rooms is great for budget travel, and also helps in meeting fellow travelers. Cooking your own meals in a hostel kitchen or dining at local markets or street food stalls is often a more budget friendly alternative to eating in expensive restaurants every meal.
For those keen to explore another part of the U.S. you might considering a gap year through an Americorps program such as NCCC, American Conservation Experience, or City Year. A service year is a great opportunity to build practical skills as part of a team engaging in meaningful service, develop leadership abilities, and potentially earn a Segal Education Award that can be used towards higher education expenses.
Destinations
Where you spend your gap year might depend on your goals and aspirations for your year. Are you hoping to become fluent in Spanish or Japanese? Do you want to spend part of your gap year engaging in a marine science internship or volunteer project? Does working at a ski resort and skiing or snowboarding on your days off sound like a dream gap year? Think about how locations relate to your interests and desired experiences when planning your gap year.
Tip: If you have family or friends that live in another part of the country or abroad, see if it is possible to link your gap year to their location. Having a local connection as a familiar face, emergency contact, or even a free - cheap place to stay can be a huge bonus.
You’ll want to consider the safety of any locations you might travel to. You can look at country profiles on the U.S. Department of State website, and view Traveler’s Health information provided by the CDC. Regardless of where you travel, you should always ensure that you have adequate health insurance and travel insurance to cover you in case of illness or injury during your gap year.
Structure & Support
You’ll want to spend your gap year doing things you enjoy in places that interest you, but you also want to ensure that those places and experiences offer you an appropriate amount of challenge and support. This is key for a successful gap experience. Ask yourself:
How comfortable am I venturing out in the world on my own?
Can I use my voice to be an advocate for myself?
How will I manage stressful situations?
If these questions make you feel anxious, or you feel that you might struggle to advocate for yourself or independently manage stressful situations, then you might opt for a more highly structured and supported experience to begin your gap year. Programs that incorporate a program leader or mentor can be a great start for students who don’t feel ready for an independent experience or would feel more reassured with additional support. You want to feel challenged during your gap year, but not challenged to the point that you become stressed and unable to cope. Talk with your parents or caregivers about what level of structure and support you might need.
Tip: It’s a good idea to begin the gap year with more structure & support and transition into experiences that allow for greater independence as the gap year progresses.
Want more advice on how to plan your dream gap year adventure? Check out the DIY Gap Year Toolkit. It includes: a 64 page workbook with engaging exercises to jumpstart your gap year planning; informative videos on The Foundations of the Gap Year, How to Set Gap Year Goals, Budgeting, Safety, and A Step by Step Guide for How to Launch Your Gap Year; Access to a Gap Year Opportunities List with over 100 different experiences to choose from; and a One-on-One Planning Session to workshop your Gap Year Plan with a professional gap year consultant.
NEW Virtual and Domestic Gap Year Programs for 2020
2020 has been a record year for the gap year as more students than ever before weighed the option of a virtual freshmen year or limited on-campus interaction with a COVID-style gap year. I consulted with more families than ever before from March - September. While not everyone decided that a gap year was the right choice for them, every one of the gap year students I ended up working with has declared that a gap year was the right choice. This fall I have had students participate in virtual gap year programs, in-person structured domestic gap year programs, as well as, DIY or “recipe” gappers who worked on electoral campaigns, worked to earn money, took a class, or volunteered close to home.
Virtual Gap Programs
A virtual gap year program at first seemed antithetical to the entire notion of a gap year, which has traditionally focused on experiential learning. However, program providers have developed some rich and engaging virtual options. These new virtual gap year programs offer students the opportunity to: participate in cultural exchange, language learning, and volunteer placement(s) with US-based non-profit(s); take part in workshops focusing on discerning one’s own values, goal setting, & developing creativity & confidence; hear from inspirational global change-makers, develop leadership abilities through a facilitated course, and form friendships with gap year students from around the world.
Learning to build community is one of the key takeaways I hope for students in their gap year experience, and one many of us have been desperately craving since the pandemic began. I’ve been impressed and inspired by student’s abilities to connect with peers in meaningful ways through virtual programs. One of my clients has taken part in book clubs, volunteered as an English teacher (virtually), and organized a virtual Halloween party with her cohort of gap year peers.
Many virtual gap year options are part-time, so students can combine a virtual program with other experiences, such as part-time work, volunteering, or an internship. A virtual gap program offers both social connection with other gap year peers, as well as, necessary structure and support from program mentors. Students can build around the virtual gap program to fill the remainder of their gap time with in-person experiences that align with their overall gap year goals.
While a virtual gap year program might not be the right fit for every student, they are an affordable, flexible option for students seeking connection and support during their gap time.
Domestic Gap Programs
Traditionally I’ve had very few students interested in a domestic gap experience, (despite my repeating how many WONDERFUL places there are to explore right here in the United States). As we all know, 2020 is not a traditional year. In addition to new virtual gap options, I’ve also seen many trusted providers pivot their focus to offer more domestic options, or offer domestic programming for the first time. Several providers that previously served only high school or college students developed gap programs to meet the increased demand for in-person alternatives to virtual college classes. It has been a busy season learning about all of these new and exciting gap year options!
In-person domestic experiences range from: residence based programs where students live together in a small pod and learn about a specific theme through hands-on experiences (ie. sustainable agriculture in NC or climate justice in OR); programs that involve some wilderness exploration while also focusing on topics such as culture and society along the Southern border or sustainability in Colorado or Hawaii; programs that are primarily wilderness based and focus on developing technical skills, such as, rock climbing, skiing, or backcountry backpacking; as well as, programs that are more travel focused and wilderness-lite where groups explores a region of the U.S. on a road trip visiting National Parks, having adventures with peers while supported by program leaders and developing new skills such as SCUBA certification and campfire cooking.
Many of these new domestic gap options involve some degree of wilderness experience. Some students hesitate at first when presented with a program that involves camping. I encourage students who are interested in the varied themes of a wilderness-lite gap program and committed to having an in-person experience to give it a go. The majority of 18 year olds have not spent much, if any, time in the backcountry, and providers don’t expect students to be wilderness experts. An open mind, a willingness to try new things, and occasionally get out of your comfort zone are the key prerequisites. Both while leading gap year programs overseas, as well as, this semester with my consulting clients I have heard multiple accounts from students who had never camped before, but now, as a result of their gap experience, plan to seek out more camping and wilderness experiences in the future.
Students returning from domestic in-person programs this fall report similar impacts to what I usually hear from students who travel abroad. Students had incredible fun, were challenged, learned to improve their communication skills, increased their maturity & independence, and forged meaningful relationships with their group mates and program leaders. Students and program providers have already managed to turn a challenging year into a growth-filled adventure. I look forward to continuing to support students as we deal with the challenges and adventures early 2021 may bring.
Gap Year Planning, Where to Start
The gap year is still a relatively new phenomenon for most Americans, so it’s not surprising that many families find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory as they approach the gap year planning process. First off, it is important that the student be an active and willing partner in the decision to pursue a gap year. Like so many growth experiences, one gets out of a gap year what one is willing to put into it.
To guide the gap year planning process, I generally recommend that students come up with some goals for their gap year, ie. become more independent, improve language skills, gain professional experience through an internship or work experience. Gap year goals will help to give a clear vision of what the intentions are for a student’s gap year. Remember, a gap year is intended to be a year of growth and development, not a year of aimless wandering. Next they’ll want to determine how long the gap year last. Will it be a full year? 14 months? 1 semester? The choice is yours. It is recommended that you have a planned start / end date for your gap experience before it begins.
Once you have determined gap year goals and length of experience you’ll need to come up with a budget. How much money do you have to work with? Good gap years do not need to cost $30,000+ (though some do). It is possible to have a transformative gap experience on a budget. (See Paying for a Gap Year). Be realistic with your budget. If you are a Sophomore or Junior, you might consider getting a summer job to help pay for it. You might also consider imbedding some work experience into your gap experience to help fund travel later during your gap year.
Once you have determined your budget for your gap experience, you can begin looking at programs that match your gap year goals and budget. Keep in mind that your gap year does not have to consist of one single experience. Many gappers participate in 2-3+ experiences during their gap year. I generally recommend that students begin with a more highly structured and supported experience and transition into more independent ones. There are thousands of gap year opportunities, both experiences that are specifically tailored and marketed as gap year experiences, as well as experiences that might be suitable for a gap year, yet do not specifically market themselves as such.
When evaluating gap year programs you can consider online reviews, but don’t hesitate to reach out to the organization directly to ask questions or even request to speak with a former participant or parent. Glossy photos and marketable buzz words do not make up for quality programs and demonstrated experience. If you have any medical conditions or severe allergies, inquire if they are able to, or how they might support someone with those needs. Ensure you are clear about what type / level of support is offered and that it matches your needs. Will there be someone checking in with you each day, weekly, monthly? What happens if you need to visit a doctor? Will someone be available to assist you, or are you capable and comfortable navigating this on your own? Be honest with yourself about your capabilities and areas where you need more support. Clear, honest communication and appropriate expectations are critical for a positive gap experience.
You might be wondering where college fits into the gap year planning process. It is different for everyone. Generally I recommend that students apply to college their senior year, while they have the support of their college counselors. After receiving offers of admission and determining where you’ll attend college, you should contact your admissions office to request a deferral. You’ll want to demonstrate that you have a solid plan and intend to use your gap year to become an even more qualified candidate. You might not have your gap year plans firmed up by this point, but you should at least be able to articulate why you want to take a gap year and some goals you have for your time. More and more colleges and universities are embracing and even encouraging students to take advantage of the gap year, so you should not let fear of losing your spot deter you from taking a gap year. Be aware of how a deferral might affect any scholarships or financial aid you may have been awarded, as well as any restrictions on earning college credit during your gap year.
For students who may need to apply to college during their gap year, you’ll want to ensure that you dedicate sufficient time during your gap year to completing those applications and admissions essays. Whether it be having a summer experience and then returning home to work on applying to colleges, or having college applications prepared before you depart for a fall gap experience, be sure to plan in advance.
Feeling overwhelmed with gap year planning or having difficulty finding the right fit? Students or parents might wish to schedule a no obligation exploratory conversation to answer questions or clarify what a gap year might entail.
Paying for a Gap Year
A well-planned gap year does not require you to spend thousands of dollars. Some of the most transformative gap years are also the most affordable. You may find that a gap year actually helps to save you money.
Whether you are a student or parent of a student interested in a gap year you are probably trying to figure out how (and why) you should pay for a gap year when you’ve got college tuition to worry about. This is a totally reasonable concern. However, a well-planned gap year does not require you to spend thousands of dollars. Some of the most transformative gap years are also the most affordable.
You may find that a gap year actually helps to save you money. According to data from the nonprofit Complete College America, only 20 percent of students complete a bachelor’s degree in four years. Only 57 percent of students who enroll in college will graduate in six years. That means there is a very high likelihood, that students entering college next year, right out of high school, will take longer than 4 years to graduate, accruing more debt as a result. In contrast, research has found that students who take a gap year are more likely to graduate in 4 years or less. A gap year allows students to explore possible career or major options, work a minimum wage job (gaining critical perspective on the opportunity value of a college degree), travel, and often take a much needed break from academia for their personal mental health. The result is a more mature, focused, and generally well-prepared student entering college.
Work Work Work
Self-funded gap year travel is much more affordable than most peer-based travel programs. I paid for 2 months in Australia, New Zealand & Fiji by babysitting and working at a frozen yogurt shop for a year. Working to pay for your own travel makes the experience more meaningful, because you know how hard you worked to get there. Funding your own travel experiences also means you will likely be more frugal and make better choices when spending money during your travels.
Working during the summers throughout high school could allow you to save up enough to spend your entire gap year abroad. Many students spend part of their gap year working while living at home to fund travels during the second half of their gap year. There are also opportunities to work while you travel during your gap year through programs such as Work Away or Woofing.
Consider the Cost
Destination matters when paying for a gap year - Southeast Asia, Central, or South America are less expensive than Australia, New Zealand, or Europe. Staying in one place is cheaper than hopping from one destination to the next. You don’t have to leave the United States (or your home country) for an epic gap year travel experience! The cost of your airfare will take up a big portion of your gap year budget. Instead of planning a round the world trip, spend several months getting to know the hidden gems and off the beaten track places of a country or continent. A few months of volunteering followed by several weeks of independent travel is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture without spending a ton of money. Use local transport options and eat local food (or cook your own food) for a more authentic experience. Staying in hostel dorms, with family, friends, or camping will cut your expenses a considerable amount.
Start Planning Early
Fully funded gap year opportunities often have earlier application deadlines, so start researching opportunities during your freshmen - junior years so that you can anticipate application deadlines. Do your research and find a scholarship or program that really suits you and your gap year goals. Work hard on your application, and ask someone to read over your essay if one is required. Be sure to allow enough time for any references or recommendations to craft a thoughtful letter of recommendation for you.
Some universities, such as University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Florida State University, and Tufts University offer gap year programs with merit and/or need-based scholarships to fund some admitted students’ gap year experiences. If you are considering applying to a school that offers a gap year program, get in touch with the school’s Office of Admissions to find out what you need to do to be considered for their gap year program.
Be Proactive
In order to increase accessibility, more and more gap year programs are offering financial assistance and need-based scholarships. Not all programs spend money to advertise their financial aid though. If the program you are interested in does not specifically advertise financial aid, reach out to ask if they do offer scholarships or financial aid. If you are planning an independent gap year, but need some help with planning details, many Gap Year Consultants (myself included) offer need-based assistance or scholarships for their advising services.
More students are interested in having an internship experience during their gap year. If you have a particular career or job that interests you because of someone you know that does it, ask them if they might be able to help you secure an internship during part of your gap year. Be sure and make it clear you’d like to gain real experience and an understanding of what a career in the field is like. You shouldn’t waste a semester in an unpaid internship if all you will be doing is making coffee (unless you are interning at a coffee shop).
Don’t Give Up
If you don’t get that scholarship or internship you had been hoping for, don’t give up! Failing and learning to bounce back is an important part of growing up. I have found that when things don’t go as planned I am usually pleasantly surprised with the result, and I’ve learned to become more adaptable and resilient because of my failures.
Maybe you’re reading this because you didn’t get in to any of the colleges to which you applied and you find yourself facing a gap year by default. You didn’t plan for one and haven’t saved for one. All is not lost! Many organized gap year programs have begun partnering with community colleges or universities to offer college credit options for gap experiences. The catch is, if you are admitted to a college and choose to defer your admission for a gap year, most schools stipulate that you cannot earn college credit during your gap year. Therefore, you can only take advantage of the opportunity to earn college credit during your gap year if you have not deferred admission for the following year. Getting practical or travel experience while earning a semester of college credit is a pretty good silver lining! Some programs that offer college credit can also be paid for using a 529 college savings plan.
If you are planning to re-apply to colleges during your gap year, it is important that you plan ahead and allow enough time to dedicate to applications / interviews. Work on applications over the summer and have them all ready to submit if you will be traveling during the fall semester. Use your gap year to learn more about yourself, your interests, skills, and goals for the future. If you approach your gap year with the right intention, it won’t be a waste of time or money, but a wise investment in your future.
Scholarship Resources: