Step Six: Taking a Gap Year

It may be that university is the right choice for you now, or it may be that you have an urge to do something different before undertaking this route, and take a gap year…

Many blind and partially sighted students have taken this opportunity to go traveling, get some work experience, volunteer abroad in a school, or to take a language course in a different country.

“…had a fantastic, fantastic gap year. I had three jobs at the end of it practically. Non-paid, all voluntary and all music related and enjoyable, and it was the best decision I ever made”

If you have applied for your university, it may be possible to defer your place for a year. If this is an option for you, discuss this with you admissions tutors. We still recommend keeping on top of your Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) application and contacting the disability support office at your university.

Find out more about taking a gap year

Read the story of Callum Russell, a blind student who credits his time spent travelling as being crucial to his educational and employment successes. Find out about his gap year, his travels abroad and all the advice he has for other blind and partially sighted students.

Read his story

Also check out the link below to find out more about how you could take a gap year.

Independent Gap Year Advice and Support for young people accessible website