Statistics on Taking a Gap Year in Canada: Pros and Cons?

I'm researching the idea of taking a gap year in Canada and was wondering if anyone has info or statistics on how this might affect college admissions or job prospects. Are there more pros than cons?

In terms of the impact of a gap year on college admissions, this can vary depending on how you choose to spend it. Universities, in general, look favorably on gap years if students engage in meaningful experiences such as work, internships, travel, or community service, as these experiences can help students gain maturity, independence, and a clearer understanding of their interests and goals.

A few findings about the effects of a gap year include:

1. Increased maturity: According to the American Gap Association, 60% of students reported that their gap year provided them with added skills that contributed to their success in college. Many students report feeling more prepared for, engaged in, and motivated during their university studies.

2. Increased GPA: Furthermore, research published in the Journal of Educational Psychology in 2015 showed that students who took a gap year achieved slightly higher grades in college compared to those who didn't, even when controlling for prior academic achievement.

When it comes to job prospects, taking a gap year could potentially make your resume stand out to employers if it's spent gaining relevant experience or skills related to your intended career field. However, it's difficult to provide hard statistics as it largely depends on the individuals' chosen field and specific circumstances.

There are, however, considerations to be mindful of:

1. Planning ahead: Universities typically want to see that you have concrete plans for your gap year, so it’s important to plan ahead and potentially even document your experiences.

2. Motivation: There could be a challenge in keeping up your motivation to return to school after a year of freedom and personal exploration. It's important to remain focused on your goal and the advantages your gap year can offer to your educational journey.

3. Financial implications: Consider the cost of whatever plans you make for this year. Whether it's travelling, interning, or working, there will be financial factors to consider. Keep in mind, however, that certain planned gap year activities can also bring in funds if you opt to work or participate in paid internships.

On balance, the pros and cons of a gap year can depend heavily on a student's particular ambitions, current readiness for university, financial situation, and the plans they make for that year. As with any major decision, thorough research and personal introspection are essential.