Taking a gap year is a big decision, so you’ve probably got a lot of questions on your mind! Below are quick-fire answers to some of our most frequently asked questions – if you can’t find an answer here then get in touch!
Q.Who can travel with GapGuru
Our programmes are open to anyone over the age of 18 who speaks a good level of English. In most cases we can cater for those with special dietary requirements and (depending on location and gap year program type) arrange programmes for those with disabilities.
Q.Do I need any special skills
Most programmes require nothing more than enthusiasm and commitment! The only exceptions are our internships which are better suited to those with a background in the core subject area, and our volunteer abroad projects in South America, which require a good level of Spanish.
Q.I’m worried about travelling alone. Will I meet people
Most of our gap year travellers travel alone, but you’re likely to meet people going to the same destination, either at our pre-departure meeting or once you’ve arrived. We’ll do our best to put you in contact with other gappers before departure, or you can meet them on our Facebook page.
Q.Can I choose when I start my programme
Most projects have set start dates but these are frequent enough to give you flexibility in your travel. If you are unable to arrive at your gap year program at the specified date then we can make alternative arrangements.
Q.What’s included in the programme price
In most cases prices include… pre-departure advice, information pack and briefing meeting; airport pick-up; transfer to accommodation; orientation of local area and 24/7 support from local coordinator. Your project fee will usually also include accommodation and meals.
Q.What’s not included
Prices do not include international and domestic flights, visas and vaccinations, travel insurance, personal expenses or local transport. However, we can help you arrange these before departure.
Q.What will my accommodation be like
Gappers usually stay in shared homestay accommodation. These homes are carefully chosen and give you a taste of local lifestyle and cuisine while you volunteer abroad or travel. Alternative accommodation may be available on request. Some of our projects have different living arrangements due to their location.
Q.What if I have problems during my trip
Our pre-departure briefing is designed to help you avoid any problems during your gap year, but our in-country teams will be at hand to deal with any issues and provide friendly and informative advice. You’ll also be given an emergency contact number with a member of our UK team.
Q.What if I don’t like my project or want to change it
Signing up to a GapGuru gap year program means you are required to show a basic level of commitment to your project. Bear in mind that you may suffer from culture-shock or home-sickness so don’t make any snap judgements! Our local coordinator will help you resolve the situation and in exceptional circumstances may assist you in moving you to an alternative project
Q.Can I take time off from my project to travel
Gappers usually have weekends free to travel, but can take longer periods off with sufficient notice. The longer you work or volunteer abroad the more flexibility there will be, (there’s not much point taking time off if you’re only there for 2 weeks!)
Q.How do I book
You can book online or by phone. If you want to do it online then simply find your project on our website, click ‘Apply Now’ and follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll be asked to pay a £150 deposit through PayPal, which will secure your place. Alternatively you can phone our UK office and we’ll guide you through the application process. The rest of your fee does not need to be paid immediately but must be received no later than 8 weeks before departure. If you’re not ready to book you gap year just yet then send us an enquiry to find out more!