Many students choose to enrol in a college after finishing their school. But, there are some people who decide otherwise. They want to learn more about themselves and their goals before going ahead with higher education. And, gap year programmes offer many such opportunities to gain meaningful experiences.
Read ahead to learn about what is a gap year programme and gap year programmes abroad.
What is a gap year?
A gap year is considered a break that people take between educational programmes in order to gain life experiences and career skills. For example, the gap (in years) taken to join a college or a university after passing out from school.
Often, people utilise this time to travel, gain focus on their upcoming studies, and/or pursue a passion. Notably, you can not only take a gap year after high school but also during or after college.
What is a gap year programme?
Gap year study abroad programmes are structured opportunities that allow people to make the most out of their year off from education or career. As the name suggests, these programmes indicate a 12-month commitment, but some courses only engage you for a few months.
Most of the gap year programmes help in acquiring foundational skills. In addition, people get to participate in language training and immersion projects. Participants get 24/7 assistance and internship opportunities too.
It is to be noted that many gap year programmes arrange for travel, accommodation (either stay with a host family or live in an apartment independently) and employment of their participants. This not only helps them integrate into a new culture but also access the resources they need to grow.
Also Read: What is GAP Certificate?
How to select a gap year programme?
Before zeroing in on a gap year programme, it is important to ensure that it aligns with your goals and values. Further, be mindful of the following things while selecting a gap year programme:
- Hunt for programmes in destinations that interest you
- Look for programmes that provide professional certifications and/or college credits
- Check out the reviews and testimonials of former participants
- Inquire about scholarship schemes and financial aid that help make a programme more accessible for you
- Always go for an accredited programme that ensures an enriching experience
By now, you must have gotten a fair idea about what are gap year programmes, as well as how to select them when planning to study abroad. If you are interested in gap year programmes, then connect with Edvoy counsellors.
