How can I pay for a gap year?
Curriculum for Life editorial team
Most people don’t have the money to spend a year jet-setting around the world, but there are other ways you can fund time out.
Think about what you want!
Having a clear idea about what you want to get out of your gap year and why you want to take one will help you focus.
Alongside the obvious routes, can you explore any different options?
Perhaps you could gain similar experiences over a shorter time frame – if you’re going on to university, could you make the most of the long holidays instead?
If you want a gap year to decide your next step, then is a far-flung location really necessary? Working or volunteering closer to home will still give you the chance to try new things, meet new people and discover new perspectives.
Everyone’s situation is different. Coming up with a plan that suits you is key to making it work.
Think about what you want!
Having a clear idea about what you want to get out of your gap year and why you want to take one will help you focus.
Alongside the obvious routes, can you explore any different options?
Perhaps you could gain similar experiences over a shorter time frame – if you’re going on to university, could you make the most of the long holidays instead?
If you want a gap year to decide your next step, then is a far-flung location really necessary? Working or volunteering closer to home will still give you the chance to try new things, meet new people and discover new perspectives.
Everyone’s situation is different. Coming up with a plan that suits you is key to making it work.
Working in the UK?
Getting a job in the UK is a great way to earn money and gain work experience – whether you want to go travelling or on holiday, or do something different.
What starts out as a short-term job, can sometimes turn into a long-term career – whether that means staying in work rather than continuing your studies, returning to a similar role later or deciding to follow a different path.
Studying abroad?
Not technically a gap-year option, but certain degrees and FE courses give you the chance to live overseas. Check out initiatives such as the Turing Scheme which provide funding to study or carry out a work placement abroad.
Working abroad?
Working abroad enables you to travel and earn some money at the same time. One option is to get a job before you go. Lots of big tour operators and travel companies offer seasonal work, in roles ranging from holiday reps to water sports instructors. Check out their websites to see what’s available or explore schemes such as BUNAC.
Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL) is another route but the downside is you’ll need to pay for a TEFL course to qualify. Courses take just a few weeks and there are various options out there. You can also find opportunities to work abroad through the British Council.
Alternatively, you can wing it and find work as you go – it’s often easy to pick up casual jobs such as bar work but do your research first. And check if you have the right to work in the country you’re travelling to, as you may need to have a certain Visa.
Working abroad?
Working abroad enables you to travel and earn some money at the same time. One option is to get a job before you go. Lots of big tour operators and travel companies offer seasonal work, in roles ranging from holiday reps to water sports instructors. Check out their websites to see what’s available or explore schemes such as BUNAC.
Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL) is another route but the downside is you’ll need to pay for a TEFL course to qualify. Courses take just a few weeks and there are various options out there. You can also find opportunities to work abroad through the British Council.
Alternatively, you can wing it and find work as you go – it’s often easy to pick up casual jobs such as bar work but do your research first. And check if you have the right to work in the country you’re travelling to, as you may need to have a certain Visa.
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