Gap Year Resources

This site contains resources for students considering a gap year. The information has been compiled by career services staff across the University of Minnesota. We have included resources we believe to be helpful, but urge you to apply discernment and do your own research before participating in any program or organization.

What is a Gap Year?

A gap year is a term commonly used to define a period of time taken off from formal education to pursue experiential learning, travel, practical experience, or prepare for your next educational program. Gap years are typically six months to two years during which students pursue a variety of interests including: work, volunteer, travel, and other opportunities to grow professionally and personally. Gap years are often (but not exclusively) used to gain practical experience in a field of interest before pursuing an advanced degree.

A gap year can be between high school and college, but this site focuses on gap years between college and graduate education or career.

Why do a gap year?

86% Satisfied. Gap year participants report being satisfied or partially satisfied with their eventual career choice.
Develop skill sets. Work on general skills employers seek like self confidence, multicultural awareness, and communication skills. Build on specific skills sets to prepare you for graduate programs.
Explore Career Fields. Gain industry specific skills before committing to further education. For example, work in an afterschool program or as a camp counselor (gaining experience working with children) before pursuing a career in Education.
Create Connections! Explore formalized programs like AmeriCorps, Conservation Corps, or Peace Corps and gain access to large numbers of industry professionals.

Things to Consider

Goals. What are your goals & what skills would you like to develop?
Timeframe. What length of time is ideal for you? If you have been accepted to a graduate program, how long can you defer? If you intend to pursue a graduate program after your gap year, how long do you need to pursue your gap year goals, taking into account application timeframes?
Location. Do you want to stay in the United States or go abroad?
Money. How will you fund your experience? The UMN Office of National & International Scholarships provides information on fellowships and scholarships that can be used for a gap year.

Common Gap Year Options

Service Fellowships

1-2 year fellowship programs provide an avenue to gain professional experience while committing to a social cause that is important to you. Many of these programs have specific application processes and deadlines that start several months before you would start the program.

Examples of fellowship programs are listed below:

Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to gain relevant experience and demonstrate your commitment to service and your field of interest to future graduate programs or employers. Whether you pursue a full-time volunteer opportunity or volunteer a few hours a week in addition to working, the below resources are great places to starting your search.

Classes

Some students pursue additional education during a gap year. Education may include any of the following:

Retake selected courses to demonstrate your ability to succeed in these courses.
Pursue a post-baccalaureate program.
Earn a Master’s Degree in a related field or to demonstrate academic capability.

For More Information

Connect with your campus or college's career office to discuss your specific goals.

Check out the Gap Year Association, a national non-profit working to improve and coordinate the gap year experience. They offer accredited programs and advice on making the most of a gap year.

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