It is becoming increasingly popular to have a year off between finishing school and going to university. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

Before joining a college, many young people are advised that a year off between finishing school and going to university might give some benefits for them, working or travelling may be a good option. Some candidates suggest that saving money is the biggest advantage of

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and a reduced motivation to study is the primary disadvantage.

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level education is very expensive and a lot of students decide to work for 12 months and save up money before they begin their studies.

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allows them to pay for their living costs, tuition fees and accommodation and focus on their studies, rather than struggle financially or have to get a part-time job on top of their academic work. It was reported that the average student at a UK university requires over 12,000 pounds per annum just to survive and many drop out because they cannot afford to stay. Despite these advantages, many students often get used to working or travelling and don’t want to return to a life of study after a year off.

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short-term view can cause some to bypass

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the university

altogether and go straight into a job

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beneath their capabilities or may not offer the same prospects their future career might have done.

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, a recent survey by the British Government found that 25% of students who take a gap-year never enter tertiary education. In conclusion, taking a break from studies can be beneficial if it allows young people to gather up savings,

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, they should

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be careful that it does not lead to disappointment resulting from education altogether.