Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A gap year is a period of time, usually taken after high school or before starting college, where students take a break from their formal education to engage in activities such as traveling, volunteering, or working.
Related terms
Exploration: The act of seeking new experiences and opportunities.
Self-discovery: The process of learning more about oneself through personal experiences and reflection.
Cultural immersion: Engaging deeply in another culture by living among its people and experiencing their customs and traditions.