Gap Year Preparation Checklist for High School Seniors

December Through June

This checklist provides month-by-month guidance for seniors planning a productive and meaningful gap year. It includes steps for research, preparation, and execution.

December: Define Your Gap Year Goals

· - Reflect on why you want a gap year and identify personal goals, such as travel, skill-building, volunteering, or exploring career paths.

· - Research gap year options, including volunteering, internships, cultural exchanges, or language immersion programs.

· - Meet with a counselor or mentor to discuss your gap year plans and gather advice.

· - Review financial needs and estimate costs for your gap year activities, including travel, living expenses, and program fees.

· - Discuss plans with family and address any concerns they may have about your decision.

January: Research and Narrow Down Opportunities

· - Finalize your gap year goals and decide on a focus, such as travel, work, volunteering, or learning new skills.

· - Research reputable organizations offering gap year opportunities aligned with your interests.

· - Start saving money by setting a budget and dedicating a portion of income to gap year expenses.

· - Review application deadlines for gap year programs, internships, or volunteer opportunities.

· - Create a resume highlighting skills, work experience, and accomplishments for program applications.

February: Apply for Programs and Build Skills

· - Submit applications for gap year programs, internships, or travel visas (if required).

· - Develop relevant skills by taking classes, attending workshops, or practicing skills needed for your gap year (e.g., language classes).

· - Research scholarships and grants for funding gap year programs.

· - Create a travel plan, including destinations, activities, and transportation options, if applicable.

· - Network with past participants of gap year programs to gain advice and insights.

March: Finalize Plans and Confirm Opportunities

· - Confirm program acceptance and make payments to secure your spot.

· - Research health and safety requirements, such as vaccinations, health insurance, and travel safety tips.

· - Plan a budget for your gap year, breaking down expenses by category and determining how to manage finances.

· - Start building an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.

· - Update your passport, ID, and other travel documents to ensure they are valid.

April: Prepare for the Transition

· - Attend pre-departure orientations or webinars offered by your program.

· - Arrange housing and transportation for your first destination or activity.

· - Notify colleges of deferral plans, if applicable, and confirm your admission deferral.

· - Continue skill development, focusing on first aid, cooking, or cultural awareness.

· - Create a checklist for packing essentials based on your destination and activities.

May: Wrap Up High School and Make Final Preparations

· - Complete high school graduation requirements, including exams and final transcripts.

· - Host a graduation celebration with family and friends.

· - Finalize travel itineraries, including flights, accommodations, and program start dates.

· - Schedule health appointments for check-ups and vaccinations.

· - Purchase travel insurance to protect against unforeseen events during your gap year.

· - Gather emergency contacts and important documents, such as medical records and copies of identification.

June: Begin Your Gap Year

· - Start your gap year activities, such as travel, work, or volunteering, with an open mind and willingness to adapt.

· - Maintain regular communication with family to update them on your activities and well-being.

· - Keep a journal to document your experiences, challenges, and reflections throughout the year.

· - Manage your budget by tracking expenses and sticking to your financial plan.

· - Reflect on your progress and evaluate how your activities align with your goals, adjusting plans as needed.

Final Tip:

A gap year is an opportunity for personal growth, exploration, and preparation for your next steps in life. Stay organized, flexible, and open to new experiences.