Funding options for gap year travel

I'm considering a gap year to travel before starting college, but I'm not sure how to fund it. What are some creative or realistic ways to cover the costs? Are there any scholarships or funds specifically for gap year travels?

There are various ways students finance their gap year travel, some involving grants and scholarships, community fundraising, and working either before or during your travels.

Several organizations offer scholarships or grants specifically for gap year travel. For example, the American Gap Association (AGA) provides a list of scholarships that can be utilized for gap year funding. Be sure to check their eligibility criteria and deadlines. There are a few other organizations, like the Pollination Project and Youth Service America, that can provide grants for service-oriented gap year projects which could help fund travels.

Credentialing bodies like the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET) can also be a good resource for scholarships and grants for structured gap year programs abroad. In some cases, US residents who are planning to volunteer or study during their gap year could be considered for funding through the Pell Grant.

Another method to cover the cost of your gap year is through fundraising. You could enlist the help of friends, family, and community members. Fundraising can take many shapes, ranging from traditional in-person events to online crowdfunding campaigns on sites like GoFundMe.

It's also worth considering earning money through work both before and during your gap year. Before your gap year, consider part-time jobs, internship, or gig work to save money. During your gap year, look into opportunities like teaching English abroad, working as an au pair, or participating in Workaway and WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) which in exchange for work, provides accommodations and sometimes meals.

Remember, gap year should be a time of enriching experiences and personal growth. It's essential to plan and budget in advance to make the most of this time without undue financial stress. Happy travels!