Whether you’re taking a traditional gap year before college or need to put your plans on hold for other reasons, the virtual Academic Gap Year at Harvard Extension School can help you maintain momentum. Through an array of interactive classes available, you can explore interests for a major or build specialized knowledge.
To participate in the Academic Gap Year at Harvard Extension, you simply enroll in courses—no application required. To begin:
1. Choose your path of study.
First, if you’re deferring college, make sure you understand your home institution’s gap year policies.Next, decide whether you want to enroll in courses for noncredit or undergraduate credit or, perhaps, earn an undergraduate certificate (which requires you to register for undergraduate credit and earn grades of B or higher).
2. Plan ahead for registration.
Map out your semester or year based on your preferred courses and important dates.Review the course registration guidelines page and Academic Gap Year policies.To get a head start, set up a student account before registration opens.
3. Register for your fall or spring course.
During registration, you’ll be asked to indicate the reason you’re taking classes. Select “Academic Gap Year,” so we can invite you to academic and career workshops as well as advising events.
You’ll choose your credit status when you register. If you’re pursuing a certificate, register for undergraduate credit.
Limited-enrollment courses fill quickly. It’s best to register early!
Enrolling for Noncredit
Engage in college-level work without earning credit or grades. Courses will appear on an official transcript.
Cost: $1,500 per course
Enrolling for Undergraduate Credit
Earn grades and credit you could transfer to another college or university. Courses will appear on an official transcript.
Cost: $1,880 per course
