Key questions to ask

• How much time have I got? Produce a personal calendar for your time, bearing in mind that a gap 'year' can be from a month to 2 years.
• What do I want to do? List the activities. You can work, volunteer, go on an expedition, do a course/cultural exchange, backpack and more in the time available.
• Where would I like to do it? It could be in the UK, or abroad or both. A round the world ticket can be surprisingly affordable.
• Will I go on an organised project or make my own arrangements?
How do I choose a gap year company?  One way is to ask to see their Code of Practice, covering such issues as
• How do I choose a gap year company?  One way is to ask to see their Code of Practice, covering such issues as
  • Terms and conditions
  • Annual accounts
  • Crisis and risk policy
  • Health and Safety
  • Support and supervision
  • Public liability insurance
  • Personal insurance
  • Equal opportunities
  • An ethical code
• Can I see a programme of activities?
• Would I like to be on my own or with others? Some organisations specialise in group activities, others in challenging you to be on your own or with a partner.
• How are people selected to participate in the activity?
• Can I talk with returned 'gappers'?
• What is the total cost? Ask each company to break down the cost. A Gap Cost Calculator can be downloaded here: Gap Cost Calculator.
• Where does my money go?
• What safety  considerations are there and what support will I be given?
• Will I be briefed before I go and de-briefed on my return?
• More key questions which you need to ask if you are looking for an organisation to provide a structured placement can be found at the Year Out Group website: www.yearoutgroup.org.uk . These questions can be applied to non-structured gap years.
• Finally, check your motivation for making your decisions. Has your plan been based on your heart or your head?