Investigate it

So you want to take a gap year.  What next?

There is a lot to consider and it will take time to research the best options for you.

Keep in mind that:

• You have 15 months if you are deferring your HE place.

• You can raise a lot of the money needed by working.

• It’s best to start off with an organised activity with others of your age and then with increased confidence take more control of your year.

• Try to link your gap activities to areas of interest i.e. linked to your HE study or career.

• A round the world ticket is a sound basis for planning.

• Don’t forget to think about what you do in the UK, as well as abroad.

Some of the key issues in your investigation will include:

• What would you really like to do?

• Which countries would you like to include?

• For how long and when do you want to be away from home?

• Do you want to be on your own, with someone else, or in a group?

• Will you arrange it yourself (DIY), go through an organization or a combination of both?

• Safety Issues. What should you be doing to prepare yourself?

• DIY or through a company?
• Before You Go courses
• What can you do?
• Where can you go?
• Key questions to ask
• Useful books
• Other directories
• Gap year Fairs
• Travelling companions