What are my options?

Considering heading off on a Gap Year before coming to university?

Have you thought about the opportunities for international travel and experiences that could await you at university?

Read on to discover the multitude of international programs available at the University of Wollongong - you might decide coming straight to university after high school is a good idea after all!


On this page...
What is a Gap Year?
The benefits of heading straight to uni
What are my options?
What is a Gap Year?

While most people go straight into further education after school, many take a break to travel, pursue a hobby, or gain skills and life experience. This is often called a "Gap Year", but it can last anywhere from weeks to months, and for some it never ends!

One alternative to taking a Gap Year is to start uni and then explore the opportunities for international travel and experiences while you study. This allows you to add an international dimension to your university experience, without extending the time it takes to complete your degree.

The Gap @ UOW webpages explore the many options that you could consider to enrich your time at the University of Wollongong and, ultimately, your life!

The benefits of heading straight to uni

You might be surprised to learn of the many advantages of heading straight to uni after high school! These include:

Transition from school to uni: Probably the most important benefit is that you will still be in "learning-mode". After spending time overseas, it is often difficult to return home and get back into a learning mindset. The transition from high school to university will be much easier if you are still in a learning frame of mind.

Still plenty of time to travel: By going straight to university you have the chance to commence your chosen degree, without sacrificing your chances of travelling overseas. Student exchange, international internships, study tours and individual travel during uni breaks are just a few of the many options you will have to see the world during your time at university.

Increase your employment prospects! You will discover that travelling during your university experience will add an ‘international edge’ to your degree – which looks great in the eyes of prospective employers. Spending a semester overseas on exchange, for example, can give your degree an international dimension that will set you above the rest when applying for a job after university. It may even open doors for you to gain employment overseas after uni.
Don’t waste time! By heading straight from school to university you can find a program that will combine study and travel without extending or delaying the completion of your degree. This way, you can still graduate on time with your friends and be prepared to enter the workforce straight away!

Save money! Travelling during your university studies can be a cost-effective way to see the world. If you are interested in International Exchange there are a multitude of scholarships, travel grants, loan schemes and work opportunities to help you realise your dream. Also, as a uni student you can get serious discounts with the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which will save you money all around the globe! Access student discount rates on airfares, accommodation, entertainment, museums, food, clothes and more. Once you are enrolled at UOW, visit Student Central in Building 17 to collect a brochure for more information on ISIC.
Get a degree before you travel: Why not travel after you’ve gotten your degree? That way you can explore the world with a UOW qualification behind you, which will increase your chances of gaining employment whilst travelling overseas. Your cultural experiences both through your travels and international work experience could further enhance your career and help you to secure an even better job back home in Australia!
What are my options?

Probably the best question to ask here is "What can't I do!"
Here are some of the best programs available at the University of Wollongong.
Click on the links to discover more about that opportunity, read testimonials of students that have done it before, and get information to find out more and how you can get involved!

International Student Exchange: spend a semester or year overseas on exchange! Study, meet new friends, travel, even learn a new language...the sky's the limit...
Summer Schools: make the most of your summer break and see the world!
US Capitol Hill Internship: interested in politics and love the States? This internship could be for you...
Study Tours: explore another country and study while you're there! Make it count towards your degree, too...
Overseas Practicums: complete a component of your degree overseas...
Project Challenge: do you want a CHALLENGE! Project Challenge might just be for you...
International Bachelor of Science: degrees with an international flavour...
Travel within Australia: discover your options for travel within Australia - find out more about this country we call home!
Study break/uni holidays: opportunities to explore during uni holidays!
Other travel options: including volunteer work, internships and more...