As I said earlier, I used to urge would-be Gappers to apply to college while still in high school and then defer. But now I’ve changed my tune and offer instead an unsatisfying, “It depends.” For instance, the student who sent the original “Ask the Dean” query claims that he has no idea where he wants to go to college or what he wants to study. So his needs would not be well served by applying to college this fall. Sure, he may be just as clueless in 12 months, but there’s also a decent chance that he’ll have at least a little more direction by then.
Also, a growing number of colleges that grant deferred enrollment to admitted students now require the student to sign a statement promising not to apply elsewhere during the year off or risk losing their place in the class. This can be a ball and chain for Gappers who expand their horizons during their time off and want to consider additional options.