Gap years are about creative, intellectual, academic and social growth in new and different contexts. Students can choose academic skill building, local or international community service, semesters at sea and or adventure, home stay and/or other world travel. Many colleges encourage students to take a GAP year before entering college to develop skills, maturity and insight. Many GAP year programs are conducted through non-profit organizations and may be tax-deductible. Listed below are but a few of the many possibilities for a GAP year. Please take a look at the examples below and/or order your own copy of The Complete Guide to the Gap Year: The Best Thing To Do Between High School and College, a great guide to GAP Year Programs.