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The definition we are using is 'time taken out of education or the workplace, for a purpose' The amount of time for 18-25 year olds can vary from about a month to as long as 15 months. 
Africa & Asia Venture volunteers next to their dhow in Tanzania:
For young people, there are certain key periods when a 'gap' is taken:
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Before Higher Education (HE), deferring your place for a year
Instead of going straight onto Higher Education (HE) after school, some students decide to take a gap year. Whether or not to take a gap year before Higher Education (HE) is an important decision to make - a gap year is not right for everyone. There are actually 15 months from the end of school to the start of HE.
- Ticking the box in the “defer” column in the “choices” section of the UCAS application form and go on to HE a year later; OR
- Apply as before, but ask your preferred HE Institution for a deferred place when you get your examination results; OR
- Don’t apply as normal, but apply to HE a year later, knowing your exam grade
- Your choice of HE institution and subject should be placed before a gap year decision.
- If you want a gap year, most advisers would recommend asking for a deferred place before examinations.
- There will, however, be circumstances in which applying to HE after examination results are known, with a gap year, is appropriate.
- A gap year is not right for everyone.
- For 2006, deferred to 2007, only 7.3% of accepted applicants deferred a year. So applying for a deferred HE place is not the norm.
- You should consult widely when considering a gap year -- i.e. your school, your family and the HE Institution of your choice.
- A gap year can be defined as “time taken out of education or the workplace, for a purpose”. It needs to be structured to do it, so that HE and future employers can see the benefits to it.
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In the Summer holidays, before going to HE (and not deferring a year), giving you a 3 months gap
If you decide to go straight to HE, but really feel you need a complete break and a chance to broaden your horizons in preparation for HE, why not take a gap 3 months? There is enough time to travel and benefit from new experiences.
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In the holidays during HE
Long summer holidays are the ideal time.
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After HE, before starting work
With or without a job to go to, now is the time to take that gap before launching down your chosen career path.
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