Gap year vs Clearing
If your university ideas didn’t go to plan, you still have options, like taking a gap year or going through Clearing. Could either of these work for you?
Should I go through Clearing?
What is Clearing?
Clearing is a second chance to get a university place. Universities confirm which places are still free and make these available for students to apply for through Clearing. You might find the same course at a different uni or a similar option at your preferred campus. You can also go through Clearing even if you didn’t apply earlier in the year.
Clearing pros
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You might find a course and/or university that suits you better
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You can start university in the year you planned
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A university place secured in Clearing has the same value as any other student place
Clearing cons
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You need to be quick with your search and call universities directly, popular courses go fast
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The choice of alternative courses or universities will be more limited so try to stay open-minded
Should I take a gap year?
Taking a year out between finishing secondary education and starting university can have lots of benefits in the short and longer term especially if you’re not sure university is for you, or you didn’t get the offer you wanted.
Taking a gap year before university
Gap year pros
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Taking time out could help you reflect and refocus on what you want to do
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You can develop lots of important life skills that will come in handy in the future
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It will help broaden your horizons especially if you decide to travel and live abroad
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It will help you stand out from the crowd and gives you something different to talk about at interviews
Gap year cons
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A gap year can be expensive so think ahead and research your ideas carefully. You could work some of the year and save money
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You'll be responsible for creating your own timetable. If you don’t make plans, you might end up doing nothing which won’t help you or your CV so set some deadlines
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You might feel left out if your friends all go to university and share that experience together so think about your motivations for doing a gap year
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You could find it difficult to go back to academic study after a year away so consider spending some of your gap year in a related area to your potential course or career
Gap year ideas
There are many ways of making the most of a gap year either in the UK or abroad. What you end up doing will depend on what you want to get out of your year away from academic study.
Travel abroad
Lots of people choose to go travelling during their gap year. With a bit of research, you can find cheap ways to see the world, meet new people and become more independent.
Volunteer
There are lots of opportunities to volunteer. You could help at a summer camp, volunteer in a hospital, clinic or immunisation centre, pick fruit, do farm work or get involved with a conservation project or animal care abroad. Check out specialist websites in your area of interest for specific roles.
Learn new skills
If you’re looking to develop your CV, you could consider an internship abroad in a relevant area. Or you might want to develop a new or existing skill like taking an immersive language course or cultural programme to develop your craft, dance or musical talents.
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