Gap Year Resources
Each year approximately fifty Penn students chose to take a gap year, whether as admitted high school seniors prior to matriculating, or between years at Penn. They pursue passions and interests, gain work experience, travel, nurture relationships with family and friends, and more. When they return to campus, these students frequently report that their gap year has been a deeply meaningful and formative experience, and studies indicate that the benefits of taking a gap year are many and wide-ranging.
"My time in Ecuador has taught me so much about relationships and the importance of deep human connection. As I embark on the next chapter in my life following my gap year, I will cherish the relationships that I have made and will use the lessons that I have learned from them to continue connecting with others."
Information & Next Steps
Admitted high school seniors interested in taking time away from the structure of academic life to explore something new before college will find ample fodder for the imagination here. Likewise, incoming Penn first-year students who have taken a gap year and are now keen to connect with other like-minded students and build on their gap year experience throughout college may also benefit from exploring the resources here.
For resources relating to post-grad gap years and fellowships, see the page hosted by Penn Career Services.
Information & Programs
Gap Year Approval
If you are an admitted student interested in applying to take a gap year, you must first reply “Yes” to Penn's offer of admission. Once you have completed this step, a Gap Year Request form will appear on your Penn Applicant Portal. This form should be submitted as soon as possible, with deadlines set in by the Office of Admissions each year. All requests for taking a gap year are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Dean of Admissions. Students can also contact applicants@admissions.upenn.edu for additional information or questions.
Please note: Admissions can only process gap year requests that come through the required form in the Penn Applicant Portal; please do not make gap year requests via email.
Gap Year Returnees
Information & Programs
Gap Year Approval
If you are an admitted student interested in applying to take a gap year, you must first reply “Yes” to Penn's offer of admission. Once you have completed this step, a Gap Year Request form will appear on your Penn Applicant Portal. This form should be submitted as soon as possible, with deadlines set in by the Office of Admissions each year. All requests for taking a gap year are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Dean of Admissions. Students can also contact applicants@admissions.upenn.edu for additional information or questions.
Please note: Admissions can only process gap year requests that come through the required form in the Penn Applicant Portal; please do not make gap year requests via email.
