How common is it for students to take a gap year after high school?

I'm curious about how many students choose to take a gap year right after graduating high school. Is it a popular option, and do you think it's worth considering before college?

In the United States, the number of students taking gap years is on the rise, but it's still relatively low compared to other countries. That said, figures can fluctuate based on academic, social, and economic trends. For instance, there was a noticeable increase in students taking gap years during times of economic uncertainty or significant global events. This could be due to a myriad of reasons such as seeking hands-on experience, gaining different perspectives, maturing emotionally, or opting for internships and travel experiences.

As with any decision concerning your academic future, whether or not to take a gap year is a personal decision. There are many potential benefits to taking a gap year, including experiencing new cultures, gaining work experience, developing specific skills, or volunteering. However, those benefits come with careful planning; a gap year without a structured plan might lead to lost time or opportunities.

It's also important to mention that colleges generally look favorably on gap years as long as they're productive and meaningful. Many colleges and universities even offer deferred admissions for gap years, and some, like Harvard, strongly encourage it.

As a tip, if a gap year is something you're considering, be sure to talk this through with your college counselor, family, or college admissions teams to see if it aligns with your long-term goals and what steps to take if you decide to do so.