Frequent Asked Questions
For those taking the Gap Year
The Application Process
How does the application process work?
- When you have decided on your destination and impact areas you can apply for your programme by clicking on the ‘apply now’ button and completing our application form.
- Once you have submitted your form you’ll be contacted to arrange a call with one of our advisors. This isn’t anything to worry about, it’s just a chance to talk through your application and make sure that it’s the right programme for you.
- If your application is successful you’ll be sent an offer letter to complete the registration form and pay your deposit.
Who can take part in a GapGuru Programme?
What is the typical age range of GapGuru travellers?
- The majority of GapGuru participants aged 18-24 years old on their gap year following further education or university.
Can I go on a GapGuru programme as a solo traveller?
- Yes, most of our gap year travellers sign up independently. You will join a team of like-minded individuals traveling to the same destination, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet your team at the pre-departure briefing. This ensures that even if you start your journey alone, you’ll quickly become part of a supportive and adventurous community.
Can I go with a friend?
Absolutely! You and your friend can both apply for the same programme and travel together. This will allow you to share your adventures and support each other throughout the journey.
What Do I Need For a GapGuru Programme?
Do I Need A Visa?
- This will depend on what country you’re visiting and any countries that you’re transiting through on the way to your destination. For specific countries get in touch with us so we can make sure we’re giving you the correct advice.
Will I need vaccinations?
- You may need to get some vaccinations before you travel. We are not medical professionals, please consult with your GP at least three months before departure. For more information on vaccinations for travel visit: https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home
Do I need travel insurance?
- You must purchase fully comprehensive travel insurance for your trip that suits you and covers all of your needs for the full duration of your trip. You should purchase this insurance as soon as possible in the event that you may need to cancel your trip. Once you’ve purchased your insurance please send these details to [email protected].
Why do I need a DBS check?
- It is important for us that all participants have an advanced DBS check, as you will be working with children and this helps us to ensure the safety and well-being of our local communities. You will receive an invitation to apply for a DBS check 3 months prior to your departure date.
Pre-departure preparation
When should I book my flights?
- No later than three months before departure you’ll be introduced to a flight agent who can help you book the team flight that we recommend. It is up to you if you choose to book through a flight agent. If you decide not to then we recommend you book your flights once you have received your packing list and destination guide and not before this!
What do I need to pack?
- No need to stress about packing! We’ve made a comprehensive packing list which will be sent out to you along with your destination guide a few months before your departure. You can also have a read here to see our top packing tips!
Should I take a suitcase or a backpack?
- Choosing whether to take a suitcase or a backpack is up to you! We recommend that you take a maximum 50-65L pack as your main luggage. If you choose to take a suitcase this can be inconvenient to get around with, as you will be moving around, and the wheels could be damaged by unsealed roads. If you do bring a suitcase, make sure you can carry it easily!
Arrival and In-Country logistics
How do I get from the airport to the hub destination?
- If you have chosen to book onto the team flight then the hub team will meet you at the airport to take you back to the hub. If you arrive on a different date or time then we will organise a central meeting point for you to meet the hub team to be taken back to the hub. We can help you organise transportation when from the airport, just drop your gap year advisor a message.
Will I be able to use my phone?
- We recommend making sure your phone is unlocked so you can purchase a local sim whilst you are in the country to make calls and connect to data. You can also purchase an eSim ahead of time instead of a physical sim although availability may vary from country to country. Drop us a message for more information.
Will there be wifi?
- Wifi will be available on most of your trips and usually included for free in your accommodation so you can keep in touch with friends and family back home. In some more remote areas, the team will be able to recommend local cafes where you can access Wi-Fi.
Living arrangements
What is the accommodation like?
- Accommodation will vary between hubs and you will be given your accommodation allocation in your briefing pack. Our accommodation is typically in local guesthouses where we regularly work. You’ll be staying with other participants in shared rooms with access to a communal space for you to relax in your spare time. All of our accommodation is safe and regularly cleaned, however, the amenities aren’t the same standard that you might be used to.
What food is included?
- As part of your programme whilst working on your community project you’ll be served three meals a day Monday – Friday as well as Saturday breakfast and Sunday Dinner.
What will the food be like?
- Meals are served family-style and are vegetarian to ensure that we can provide you with safe food and also to reduce our carbon footprint. Meals will consist of vegetarian dishes based on local ingredients and traditional preparations. All dietary requirements will be catered for as long as our team have been made aware of these before your arrival.
Support and Community
What is the group size?
- Accommodation will vary between hubs and you will be given your accommodation allocation in your briefing pack. Our accommodation is typically in local guesthouses where we regularly work. You’ll be staying with other participants in shared rooms with access to a communal space for you to relax in your spare time. All of our accommodation is safe and regularly cleaned, however, the amenities aren’t the same standard that you might be used to.
Can I speak to past volunteers?
- Yes, you’ll be buddies up with a GapGuru Alumni who has been on their own GapGuru trip in the past. Alongside your gap year advisor your buddy will be able to support you by sharing their experience of a GapGuru programme and help you prepare for your trip.
What if I have problems during my trip?
- Our pre-departure briefing is designed to help you avoid any problems during your gap year, but our in-country teams will be at hand 24/7 to deal with any issues and provide friendly and informative advice. You’ll also be given an emergency contact number.
What if I don’t like my project or want to change it?
- Signing up to a GapGuru gap year programme means you are required to show a basic level of commitment to your project. Bear in mind that you may suffer from culture-shock or home-sickness so don’t make any snap judgements! Your GapGuru mentor will help you resolve the situation and in exceptional circumstances may assist you in moving you to an alternative project.
Programme Details and Benefits
Does this count towards my Gold DofE residential?
- Yes, all of our projects satisfy the requirements for your gold DofE residential.
Can I take time off from my project to travel?
- During your programme you have an adventure week to explore the country that you’re based in alongside your weekends free to travel, but can take longer periods off with sufficient notice. The longer you work or volunteer abroad the more flexibility there will be, (there’s not much point taking time off if you’re only there for 4 weeks!)
What is Global Citizenship?
- Global Citizenship is about encouraging young people to develop the knowledge, skills and values they need to engage with the world. Global Citizens are individuals who are aware of the world and their place in it. They respect and value diversity and work to understand and add efforts to make the world a fairer place by working towards the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals. Global Citizenship is the belief that we can all make a difference.
What are the UN Sustainable Goals?
- The 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals were outlined in 2015 as a 15-year plan to build a better world. They were an urgent call for action by all countries – developed and developing – in a global partnership.
- The goals recognise that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.
- The UN Goals are the guiding principles that shape the work of the FutureSense Foundation to ensure that together we are part of a coordinated global effort to end inequality. On your program, you will be contributing to the goals and helping to make a change.
Ready To Start Your Adventure?
Choose from 7 bucket list destinations
Thailand
📍 Mae Sariang
15th November 2024
From £2,595
Tanzania
📍 Arusha
15th November 2024
From £2,595
India
📍Palampur
11th January 2025
From £2,595
Peru
📍Urubamba
1st February 2025
From, £2,595
Cambodia
📍Battambang
15th February 2025
From £2,595
Nepal
📍Kathmandu Valley
15th February 2025
From, £2,595
Panama
📍El Valle de Anton
1st March
From, £2,595
Need Gap Year Advice?
Want some help planning your gap year? Whether you’ve already booked a gap experience with us, or are wondering where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out to our fantastic GapGurus! We’ve got plenty of gap year experience and nearly 20 years of turning dreams into reality. Chances are, we’ve heard your question before. Drop us a message and let’s make the most of your gap year!
