Can you get scholarships even if you take a gap year?

I'm thinking about taking a gap year, but I'm worried about missing out on scholarship opportunities. Can you still apply for scholarships during or after a gap year, or would that make things more complicated?

Absolutely! Many scholarships are still available to you even if you decide to take a gap year. In fact, some scholarships are specifically designed for gap year students. You will just need to plan ahead and check the scholarship eligibility requirements carefully.

There are two key categories for scholarships:

1. Scholarships offered by the college you got accepted into: For these, it's critical to connect with the admissions or financial aid office at the college you'll ultimately attend. Some colleges may allow you to defer your admission and your scholarship for a year, but policies vary widely by institution, so you really should check.

2. Outside scholarships: These can vary greatly. Some may require you to be currently enrolled in college, while others do not. Some scholarships especially target students who are taking a gap year. Just keep in mind the timeline for when the scholarship money is distributed. If the scholarship is to be applied directly to tuition, you will need to communicate with the awarding organization about your gap year plan and see how they would handle the distribution.

In your gap year, stay organized and continue to search and apply for scholarships. Appily is a good tool for finding scholarships. Remember, scholarships aren't just for high school seniors or currently enrolled college students - there are a variety of scholarships out there for different situations and age groups. Just ensure sure you read the eligibility requirements carefully and keep track of application deadlines.

In conclusion, taking a gap year doesn't necessarily mean missing out on scholarships. With good planning, communication, and a proactive attitude, you can certainly successfully navigate the scholarship process.