Gap Years: Scholarship and Grant Options

Sometimes, the path after high school isn’t perfectly clear. Some people want to jump right into school, but there are a lot of others who want to take a gap year. The problem for a lot of students comes down to finances—can you take a gap year with a scholarship? 

This guide will unravel the complexities of taking a gap year with a scholarship, helping you navigate policies, weigh pros and cons, and make the best decision for you.

What is a Gap Year?

A gap year is time you take off of (or before starting) school to travel, volunteer, or gain work experience. Students also take gap years between semesters, between degrees, and in similar circumstances.

Why take a gap year to begin with? First of all, it’s a chance to explore new interests and grow personally before diving into higher education. Plus, you often get to network with others, find mentors, and learn more about what you really care about. 

Whether you’re looking to see the world or figure out your passions, a gap year offers a unique opportunity to step outside the traditional academic path and gain valuable life experiences.

Types of Scholarships and Their Flexibility with Gap Years

Scholarships come in various forms, each with its own rules regarding gap years. Here’s a breakdown of common types of scholarships and their general policies:

• Academic Scholarships: Awarded based on academic achievements, these typically have strict policies and may not easily accommodate gap years.
• Athletic Scholarships: Given to student-athletes, these may have varying rules, often requiring continuous training or competition.
• Merit-Based Scholarships: Based on various talents or achievements, these can be flexible, but it’s essential to check individual policies.
• Private Scholarships: Funded by organizations or individuals, these often offer more flexibility and may be more accommodating of gap years.
• Need-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on financial need, these may have specific guidelines regarding deferrals and gap years.

Most scholarships expect continuous enrollment, but some allow deferrals with prior approval and a good reason. Always read the fine print and reach out to the scholarship provider to understand their specific policies about gap years.

How to Determine If Your Scholarship Allows a Gap Year

Figuring out if your scholarship allows a gap year can take some effort, but with the right resources, it doesn’t have to be a big headache. You can start with these core steps:

• Read Your Scholarship Agreement Thoroughly: Carefully review the terms and conditions of your scholarship. Look for any mention of deferral policies, continuous enrollment requirements, or specific rules about taking a gap year. Pay close attention to the fine print.
• Contact the Scholarship Provider Directly: Reach out to the organization or institution that awarded your scholarship. This could be through email, phone, or their official website. It’s important to get clear and direct answers, so don’t hesitate to ask for written confirmation of their policies.
• Check Your School’s Policies: Sometimes, schools have overarching policies that apply to all the scholarships they manage. Visit your school’s financial aid office or website to understand how a gap year might impact your scholarship.
• Consult with Your Academic Advisor: Your academic advisor can be a valuable resource. They often have experience with students in similar situations and can provide guidance on how to approach scholarship providers and what to expect.

Pros and Cons of Taking a Gap Year with a Scholarship

Deciding to take a gap year with a scholarship in hand comes with its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks. Here’s a closer look at both sides:

Pros

• Personal Growth: A gap year can be a great time for your personal development, helping you gain new skills and perspectives.
• Travel Opportunities: Exploring new places and cultures is another way to broaden your horizons and have a stronger grasp of the world around you.
• Work Experience: You can also gain valuable work experience, which can make you more competitive in the job market after college.
• Rest and Recharge: Taking a break can help you avoid burnout and return to your studies with renewed energy and focus.

Cons

• Losing Scholarship Funding: Some scholarships may not allow deferrals, meaning you could lose financial support if you take a gap year.
• Delayed Graduation: Taking a year off can push back your graduation date, which might impact your long-term plans.

Adjustment Challenges: Depending on the program you sign up for, it can be challenging to transition back into academic life after a year away.