What is Gap Certificate for Abroad Studies?

Ever faced refusal for your study abroad application or let alone your visa due to gaps in your career journey? Well, you’re not alone in this and worry not as you can use a Gap Certificate to the rescue. This article is about Gap Certificate for studying abroad.

Universities abroad receive millions of applications from students of exceptional educational backgrounds each year. So a gap in your overall educational or professional journey without a clear explanation may leave a bad impression and even get your application rejected at the screening round. By submitting a Gap Certificate you reclaim your chances of getting your application shortlisted for admissions and migration purposes which may be seemingly possible otherwise.

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What is Gap Certificate?

Gap Certificate is used to describe gaps in your educational and career journey and to explain their reasons. It is used by university's admission committee and visa authorities to judge whether you're worthy of college's seat or for visa to get education on a higher level in that country. Universities also expect gap certificates from you to know how you used gap period to align it with your career aspirations. 

Also Read: Bonafide Certificate

What are the uses of a Gap Certificate?

Gap Certificate is used to explain breaks in your education or profession. It is helpful for:

1. Justifying a gap when applying to colleges or universities, whether in India or abroad.
2. Job applications by clarifying periods of unemployment or career breaks.
3. Demonstrating that how you used this period for self recovery, upskilling or personal commitments.

If these reasons resonate with the university or employer of your choice, they can give you an opportunity upon validating the reasons of your gaps. 

Why do You need a Gap Certificate to Study Abroad?

Students aiming to study abroad may need a Gap Year Certificate to

• give comprehensive explanation of their academic history. 
  
• justify periods of unemployment or breaks in education.
  
• highlight how they have spent gap year whether through volunteering, internships, or travel.
  
• show to universities they have used this time productively and have matured during the gap.

How to Make Gap Certificate?

Here are the steps to draft the gap certificate-

• Write your full name and address. Write the start and end dates of your gap year as well. 
• Mention the reason of taking the gap. This can be either travelling, volunteer work, internships, personal reasons or illness. Just be honest.
• Mention the name of last institution you attended and the degree you obtained. 
• Sign the bottom of your letter.

It must be noted that not all the universities ask for a Gap Certificate on stamp paper or letterhead. If your university also asks for it, visit a notary public to verify your document.

Reasons for Explaining Gaps in Studies

Most common reasons used for explaining gaps in your studies by the means of gap certificate for college application are given below.

1. Preparation for competitive exams

2. Personal health issues

3. For gaining practical work experience in [mention field]

4. Exploration of personal interests and development of new skills

5. Family circumstances

6. Volunteering for (organisation/cause)

Which Documents Do You Need to Apply for the Gap Certificate?

Your university or employer may ask for supporting documents to verify the reasons you have mentioned in your gap certificate. You may need to submit one or more of the following-

• Volunteer work certificate
• Personal ID 
• Internship certificate
• Travel itineraries 
• Doctor's prescription or hospitalisation bills in case you went through a medical treatment

This was all about the Gap Certificate. Remember, while a Gap Certificate is helpful, it may not be mandatory.