Sometimes stressed-out students wonder if a gap year is for them. It might be just the ticket to revitalize and further explore career interests. But take care to prepare for a gap year, there's work to do first!

The downside of a gap year is that the student can lose valuable time, lose-out on scholarships and make colleges wonder what they've been doing since high school. To avoid those things, students must first choose a gap year plan that dovetails with their goals, apply to colleges and get accepted and get their gap year plan approved by their college.