Gap Year After Freshman Year of College?

I'm currently a high school junior, but I'm curious—if I decide I need a break, is it possible to take a gap year after completing freshman year at college? How common is that?

Yes, it is certainly possible to take a gap year after completing your freshman year of college. It's typically referred to as a "leave of absence". Every institution will have its own policies for how this is handled, and what the requirements are for re-admission, so you'd need to look into the specifics of any colleges you're considering.

It's worth mentioning that while it's not extremely common to take a leave of absence after freshman year, it's also not unheard of. Students opt for this usually if they need a break for personal circumstances, want time off for gaining real-work experience, or other unique opportunities come by.

However, be mindful of the fact that you'd need to discuss your plans with your college first. They might have requirements such as filling out paperwork or maintaining a certain GPA beforehand. Also, it's crucial to consider how that might impact your financial aid or scholarships, if you have any, as their conditions might vary. In any case, always make sure to keep the lines of communication open with your college's administration to make this process as smooth as possible.

Lastly, use this time wisely. Whether it be internships, research, volunteer work, travel, or self-care, productive use of this time can enhance your overall college experience when you return.