Whether you're a student considering deferring university or a recent graduate contemplating your next move, we explore the benefits of taking a student gap year

As A-Level results day approaches, students across the country face important decisions around their future. Whilst university may appear to be the natural next step for many, a rising number of students are exploring an alternative, taking a gap year.

What is a gap year?

A gap year is a break that usually lasts a few months to a year between college and university, or after graduation. You might spend this time travelling, volunteering, interning, or working to learn skills to take into your professional life. For many, a gap year is an opportunity to gain life experience, explore personal interests or simply take a break from the demands of academic life. Interestingly, a recent study found that the amount of UK school leavers applying for university has fallen for the third year in a row, hinting that greater numbers of young people are exploring alternatives, such as taking a year out.

People may choose to take a gap year for a number of reasons, including:

  • uncertainty about going to university or what to study
  • time off following education or before beginning a career
  • building your CV and gaining work experience
  • an opportunity to meet new people and travel the world
  • personal development and self-discovery

What are the benefits of taking a gap year?

Personal growth: Whether you’re fresh out of exams or have been working for a while, a gap year provides the perfect opportunity to develop essential life skills. If you choose to go travelling during your year out, you'll likely take on responsibilities such as budgeting, planning your itinerary, securing accommodation, and managing your finances. These experiences will not only help you build practical skills but also demonstrate independence, adaptability, and confidence.

Jill McElroy, marketing director at StudentUniverse, the world’s largest student and youth travel agency, notes “As A Level results day quickly approaches, it is imperative that students consider all opportunities for their personal development. Extended travels, gap years, vocational travel, and studying abroad provide young people with the experience to develop personally. University straight from college is not always the answer.”

Kickstart your job or degree: If you’ve already got a job or university place lined up, a gap year can be a great way to give yourself a competitive edge that can set you apart from your peers. Studies have shown students who take a gap year often return feeling more prepared and engaged, having developed a stronger sense of purpose. You'll come back refreshed, with new experiences, higher confidence, interesting stories, and a whole range of useful skills.

Work experience: Using your gap year to work part- or full-time (or to do a year-long paid internship) can provide you with valuable work experience for your CV. Working in different fields or industries can help you explore potential career paths and decide what sort of job you are interested in before you take your next steps.

Life experience: Travelling to new countries and immersing yourself in different cultures is a great way to broaden your perspective. Learning a new language and first-hand about other customs, social norms and different religions can help you gain a greater appreciation for diversity. This open-minded attitude can have a great impact on your work and relationships, and may even affect the way you approach life and other people.

A well-deserved break: Let's face it, studies and exams can be tough. Taking a gap year can provide a much-needed break from academic pressure, offering the chance to recharge your batteries both mentally and emotionally. This can be particularly important for students who may be feeling burnt out after years of continuous study, helping to restore enthusiasm before taking the next step.

How to plan a gap year

Know your goals: Before planning your gap year, it's important to decide what you hope to achieve during your break. Are you looking to travel, gain work experience, volunteer, learn new skills, or simply take a break before your next move? Try to think about what you want from your gap year, whether you’re seeking personal growth, career development or new experiences. Knowing your goals will help you make the most of your time.

Research your options: If you’re planning to travel during your gap year, research destinations that interest you. Check visa requirements, learn about local customs, and review safety tips for each location. If you want to work, look into job opportunities that match your interests or future career goals. Find out what qualifications you need and how to apply for these positions.

Budget: With your exams behind you, you now have the perfect opportunity to earn some extra money. Consider finding a part-time job to boost your savings. Set a clear savings goal and create a budget to track your income and expenses. Opening a separate savings account specifically for your gap year funds can be helpful. This way, your savings are kept apart from your everyday money, making it easier to track your progress and avoid unnecessary spending.

Planning a gap year can be an exciting adventure, but requires careful preparation to ensure you make the most of your time. For helpful resources and advice visit: