This is the go-to book for anyone considering a year to re-charge, to follow a passion, to become immersed in another culture, or to find their love of learning again. It includes everything a student, parent, or guidance counselor would want to know about the gap year; including what a gap year is, what it is not, and how it can have a positive impact on a young life.

Readers can find out what the admissions deans of Harvard, Duke, Bucknell, and many other colleges think of the gap year; and how it is becoming an important part of the educational process at top universities. Many other gap year books on the market were published in the UK and don’t have the depth of information on US colleges and the US academic system that this book does. There are quotes from top-rated college admissions deans, as well as stories of students who have successfully deferred admission or who were unhappy with their acceptances and decided to apply again from their gap year.

Economically, the gap year can make a lot of sense in a recession, and this useful guide gives information on free programs, financial aid, and tax savings. It includes a section on AmeriCorps programs which are not only free, but include a stipend.

Students will find self-quizzes and helpful criteria to help them decide whether to take a gap year, and if so, what type of program. This guide helps them to evaluate their interests and to plan and fund their gap year; whether it means spending a year on a sailing vessel, coaching sports and teaching in an impoverished area, or following a passion in the arts or academics.

The Complete Guide to the Gap Year includes a directory with information on 200 of the world’s best gap year programs. Topics include: Volunteer Abroad, Volunteer USA, Cultural Immersion, Adventure, Language. Arts/Music/Theater/Media, Sailing & Tall Ships, Conservation/Environment and Marine Life, Outdoor & Wilderness, and Post Graduate Year. While the book is aimed at recent graduates of high school, the directory is useful for people of any age who hope to take a gap year.