How Much Gap is Accepted for Study in Australia?

Applying to study abroad in an overseas university can be a complex process. International students need to consider various factors carefully to create a compelling application. One such crucial factor is study gaps. Generally, international students are required to provide explanations for any gaps in their academic journey. However, a common question that arises is: How much gap is accepted for study in Australia? Usually, a gap year of 1-2 years is considered normal, but if the gap increases by 3 to 4 years, valid reasons need to be provided.

In this blog, we will look into the reasons for the study gap accepted in Australia, guidelines for explaining study gaps, how to apply for a gap certificate, and universities accepting study gaps in Australia.

How Much Gap is Accepted for Study in Australia?

Most Australian universities generally allow students to have a study gap of 1-2 years before enrolling in their programs. However, students must provide genuine reasons supported by reliable documentation to justify these gaps in their academic journey. The acceptable duration of study gap can vary depending on whether the student is applying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s program.

However, international applicants must provide a more robust justification if the study gap extends to 3-4 years. The acceptability of the gap also depends on the type of course, whether it’s an undergraduate or postgraduate program.

Reasons for Study Gap Accepted in Australia

Here are the key reasons for gap in education. Provided you submit proper evidence, these reasons can be accepted as a study gap.

• Health Issues: Unexpected illnesses can prevent you from enrolling. When you recover, provide documents like diagnosis, health reports, and doctor’s appointments to explain the study gap.
• Family and Financial Issues: This is the most common reason for gap in education. Family problems may require a study gap before applying for an Australian visa. Inform the university about the gap or explain the conditions in your GST statement. Ensure you have sufficient funds to support your studies and visa requirements, even with partial scholarships.
• Gaining Work Experience: Getting work experience is common. Some universities even prefer students with work experience. This reason for gap in education can be justified by providing proof of your work experience and explaining how it relates to your future studies.
• Preparing for Exams: Another reason for gap in education after 12th may be preparing for English proficiency exams. To meet study requirements in Australia, you may need to take time off to prepare for exams, such as the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Provide the exam results or other details to support your case.
• Volunteering Activities: Volunteering can be a meaningful study break. Provide verification documents, and choose courses that align with your volunteering activities.

Also read: Which Test Is Better – IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo?

Guidelines for Explaining Study Gaps

Usually, 1 to 2 years of study gaps in acceptable in Australia. If you have any study gap, even just a year, you should explain it. It’s important to show in your GST statement that you are genuine and intend to study in Australia with your student visa.

Include these key details in your statement:

1. Previous Study Information:

• Provide academic transcripts and qualifications
• Name the education providers
• State the length of study
• Include certificates of attainment

2. Information about the Study Gap:

• Explain the reasons for the gap, including any periods without enrollment
• Highlight relevant skills, experience or knowledge gained during the gap year and how it prepared you for your chosen course
• Explain why you now want to pursue further studies and how it aligns with your long-term career goals

3. Your Home Country Situation:

• Mention your study and employment background in your home country
• Explain why you are not studying there
• Demonstrate your financial stability for study in Australia

4. Incentive to Study in Australia:

• Explain the potential situation in Australia that motivates you to study there

5. Future Career and Earnings:

• Describe the career and income you intend to pursue after finishing your studies in Australia

6. Previous Visa Applications:

• If you’ve applied for visas to other countries (approved, cancelled or refused), mention this.
• You must attach supporting documents in addition to the written statement. Unsupported generic statements will not be weighted heavily in the GST assessment.

How to Get a Gap Certificate After 12th?

Students who take a break from their regular, ongoing education may need to obtain a gap certificate. This document states the reason for gap in education. The gap certificate provides relevant information about the student’s gap. Schools or colleges can issue this certificate to the students.

Students have to submit a list of the following necessary documents along with their copies to apply for a recognised gap certificate.

The documents required for a gap certificate include:

• ID proof (PAN Card, Voter ID, Driving License, or Aadhar Card)
• Transfer certificate
• Authentication declaration from the previous institution
• Proof of residency
• Proof of citizenship
• Marksheet of the last qualifying exam
• Documentation supporting the reason for the gap

Download our guide to know the list of details needed on a gap certificate.

Universities Accepting Gap in Australia After 12th

Below is the list of top Australian universities that accept international students with study gaps:

• Australian National University
• University of Melbourne
• University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
• University of Queensland
• University of Sydney

Also read: Best Bachelor Degrees in Australia For International Students in 2024

Study in Australia with The WorldGrad

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Our Smart Programs include Global Online Accelerator Program, UniSmarter Program and UniSmarter Pre-Masters Program. Through these programs, students can benefit from quick and seamless admission to Australian universities for Bachelor’s and Master’s courses.

FAQs

Q1. How much gap is accepted for study in Australia after 12th?
A1. Usually, a gap year of 1-2 years is considered normal, but if the gap increases by 3 to 4 years, valid reasons need to be provided.

Q2. Does Australia accept study gap?
A2. Yes, Australia accepts study gaps of up to 2 years.

Q3. Is a 7-year gap accepted in Australia?
A3. Generally, universities allow international students with a study gap of 2 years. If it exceeds 2 years, reasons for gap in education and proper evidence has to be provided to obtain admission to an Australian university.

Q4. How much time does it take to make a gap certificate after 12th?
A4. Usually, it takes 2 to 3 days to get a gap certificate, provided all documents are submitted properly.

Q5. Does a gap year affect visa?
A5. No, it does not affect student visa. Proper documents with justification has to be provided for the gap years taken.