The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Are there any drawbacks to taking a year off after high school graduation before going to college? Does it affect the availability of scholarships? I have not seen anything about scholarships that states that a year off will affect them. However, most scholarships require proof that you have been accepted at a university. My first question would be why are you taking a year off? In most cases, students need a break from school and it is understandable, but they lose the momentum to continue their education for one reason or another. Weigh your options carefully and your reasons why. I am sure you have heard this one already. If you take a year off to work and save money for college, then I would consider talking to a financial aid officer to explore the impact of money on aid you may receive. If you are taking a year off to do volunteer work or attend another program, then it is not viewed poorly by colleges.
