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Taking a gap year is a big decision, but we’re here to help you navigate every step of the way.
They say, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” but no one ever mentions how overwhelming starting your next big adventure can feel—that’s why we’re here, to help chart your course through the gap planning process.
Our carefully curated admissions process is designed for us to get to know you as an individual so we can help craft an itinerary that meets your unique goals—and although applicants are accepted on a rolling basis, we recommend applying as soon as possible to secure your spot on program.
Your Gap Roadmap
Planning
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Your journey
begins here
Step 1: Explore our programs
Get familiar with our suite of customizable, global gap itineraries — with Year, Semester, and Short-Term programs, there's an EF Gap experience for everyone.
Step 2: Attend an info session
Register for a webinar to explore our programs and learn more about how taking a gap before or during college works.
Step 3: Begin a dialogue
Start a conversation with your support network—this may be family, friends, academic advisors, school counselors, or trusted mentors—about your options and start to set goals for your unique gap experience.
Step 4: Meet your dedicated Gap Year Consultant
When you're considering a gap, these are the experts you want on your team! Your Consultant will work with you and your family to match you with the program that expands your horizon and meets your unique goals.
Your Gap Roadmap
Additional considerations
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Are you a high school student?
Connect with your college counselor to discuss your plans to travel with EF Gap Year; they'll help you prepare your college applications and discuss deferral options. You can also consult our easy-to-use College Deferral Guide for more information on how we'll work together to make it happen!
Are you a college student?
Meet with your academic advisor to understand your options; many universities require gap students request a leave of absence. Your school’s faculty can help support you throughout the decision-making process by providing logistics and resources.
Your Gap Roadmap
Admissions
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Choose your
path forward
Step 1: Let's connect
Schedule a call with your Gap Year Consultant.
Step 2: Review your custom program proposal
Look over your destinations of choice, itinerary, and modules.
Step 3: Submit your deposit
Secure your spot in the program and set up an automatic monthly payment plan.
While we practice rolling admissions, be aware that many of our programs reach capacity prior to the Standard Enrollment deadline. We encourage students to book early to ensure they secure a spot on the program of their choice
Step 4: Complete registration
Work with your Gap Year Consultant to finalize any outstanding enrollment details.
Your Gap Roadmap
Predeparture
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Get ready to
take on the world
Step 1: Complete your onboarding call
…with your Gap Year Advisor; your emergency contact, main support person, and mentor throughout your EF Gap experience.
Step 2: Check your passport
Ensure your passport has not expired and will not expire during your travels; we recommend your passport be valid for 6 months after your scheduled return. If needed, this is time to begin the process of renewing your passport.
Step 3: Attend a webinar
Participate in a predeparture webinar and an online orientation with your cohort.
Step 4: Get prepared to go abroad
Sign up for travel insurance and an international phone plan.
Step 5: Discuss college credit options with your Advisor
EF Gap Year program students can earn up to 12 college credits; Semester and Short-Term program students can earn up to 9 credits, depending on the program.
Step 6: Finalize admissions application
Submit scholarship materials and input your information into the "My EF Gap” student portal.
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Weekly EF Gap Year Info Sessions
Every Thursday @ 7PM ET
Our live, online Gap Year Info Sessions take place every week. Discover how taking a gap year before or during college works, explore EF Gap Year programs, and ask our staff any questions that come to mind.
Feel free to bring your family, friends, or come on your own. Our dream is for each person to leave the session inspired to start planning their gap or, at the very least, newly open to the possibility.
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After completing this short form, one of our EF Gap Year Consultants will reach out to schedule a time to talk in more detail about which of our programs is right for you. For U.S. students ages 18–22.
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