Gap Year Requests
Enrolling students may request to have their matriculation deferred for one academic year, often referred to as a gap year. This allows students the time to pursue non-academic opportunities through internships, volunteer work, enrichment programs, or other interests.
Please note, this information applies to incoming students only. If you are a returning student, see AARC’s Leaves, Withdrawal, Reinstatement page.
Before requesting a gap year, incoming students must first confirm their enrollment by replying to Oberlin's offer of admission and submitting their enrollment deposit. To request a gap year, matriculating Arts and Sciences, Conservatory, or Double Degree students must submit a request by June 1 using the Gap Year Deferral Request form. The Office of Admissions will review complete gap year requests and will notify students via their applicant portals as to whether or not the request has been approved. Upon approval, students must submit a signed deferral contract along with a $1,000 enrollment deposit within two weeks. It is important to note that the $1,000 deposit is non-refundable but will be applied towards the fall semester tuition bill.
Please note important considerations below:
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During a gap year, students may not initiate applications to any other college or university without first notifying Admissions that you are forfeiting your enrollment at Oberlin.
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While students are permitted to take some classes during the gap year, they may not enroll full time in a degree granting program. Please note that the Admissions Committee expects you to maintain good academic and disciplinary standing during your gap year.
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Upon approval of a gap year request, a student is committing to attend Oberlin. There will be no need to re-apply to Oberlin, and any merit scholarships awarded at the time of admission will be honored provided that you remain in good academic and disciplinary standing during your deferral period. If you are a domestic student and a recipient of need-based financial aid, you will have to submit a FAFSA and all requested documents each year you attend Oberlin. Unless your family’s financial circumstances change significantly in the meantime, it is likely that your financial aid package will be similar to what we have currently offered.
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Please see the Financial Aid Policies page for instructions on how to re-apply for financial aid for your deferred first year at Oberlin.
Contact Us
College of Arts & Sciences Admissions
440-775-8411
college.admissions@oberlin.edu
Conservatory of Music Admissions
440-775-8413
conservatory.admissions@oberlin.edu