Accepted Study Gap Years for UK Student Applicants

Every year, the universities in the UK intake a large number of students from all corners of the world. In fact, it is among the top picks in study destinations for over 6 million international students. These universities have pretty laid-out guidelines and eligibility requirements for their applicants. From academic to financial aspects, students need to fit in the box from all sides. Of all the rigid bars they have set, luckily, an education gap is not one. This gap often acts as a barrier between student and their dream universities and jobs. It refers to the time between their last qualification and the present one. In other words, the time spent outside studying, training or working makes up the study gap. International students can apply to UK universities without worrying about their hindrances.

In this blog, we will delve into the study gap accepted by UK universities.

Acceptable Gap Year

Students may take study gaps to prepare for competitive exams, gain work experience or take up short courses. Reasons like medical treatment and financial inability are also acceptable. If you spend this time pursuing your hobbies, you can get by with sufficient evidence that you, in fact, did them. Universities may have specific durations that can be accepted varying with their course. At the same time, the gap needs to be reasonable. The study gap should not only be of a reasonable duration but also have a valid reason supporting it. Taking a huge break could disrupt your learning process. With the burden of performing better, one might also face issues getting back to the routine. Hence, universities may not entertain applicants with a large gap. Let’s look into the admissible reasons with respect to different programs.

Typically, universities do accept up to 2 years of education gap in students applying for an undergraduate course in the UK. You must have a compelling reason to secure your seat. Moreover, you need an outstanding IELTS, PTE or any other English language proficiency score to be under the light. In some cases, a 3-year gap is valid too. Particularly, the University College Birmingham accepts up to 5 years of study break. Apart from that, you will either face rejection or will be requested to take a foundation program. Whereas postgraduate admissions are more flexible. UK universities accept up to 5 years of study gap after graduation. Some universities like Ulster University, Coventry University and Bangor University among others also accept up to 10 years gap. In case you don’t have a justifiable reason, you can apply for a pre-master program.