Are you still considered a high school graduate after a gap year?

I'm planning to take a gap year after graduating from high school, but I'm curious about how it affects my status. Are you still considered a high school graduate during your gap year, or does this change anything important?

Yes, you're absolutely still considered a high school graduate during your gap year. The term "gap year" typically refers to taking a year off between graduating high school and starting college. During this time, you might choose to work, travel, volunteer, or pursue a hobby or passion. Your status as a high school graduate does not change or become nullified just because you chose to take a break before heading to college.

However, during this gap year, it's essential to stay academically engaged and not let your skills go stale. Some students continue independent study, take online courses, or even audit college courses. Admissions committees value students who've made good use of their time off. If you choose to apply to college during or after your gap year, you might want to include in your essay how the experience has contributed to your personal growth and prepared you for college.

Essentially, a gap year is an opportunity to gain life experience and perspective. It doesn't change your education level or the fact that you've earned your high school diploma.