Gap Year Placements

• Who can apply for a Gapguru program ?

  The Gapguru programs are open to individuals at least 18 years old at the time of departure. Most placements also require a minimum educational qualification, this is normally A levels or an equivalent.

• Can I choose exactly when I leave for India ?

  Yes you can to a certain extent. It would normally depend upon the gap year program you choose and the kind of placement you seek. You must always ensure that you indicate your preferred departure on your application form and discuss this in your first telephone interview. As we have several gap year program start options you should always be able to find one fairly close to the departure you are seeking.

• I want to be independent on my gap year. I'm worried that by going on a pre-organised program I risk losing this aspect of my gap year?

  At Gapguru, we appreciate that to many people taking a gap year abroad is all about 'going it alone' and the challenge of being entirely independent and self-reliant. Due to this, we have developed our gap year programs in a way in which each individual participant can take as little or as much of the support available to them as they like. Once you are on a gap year placement or travel program, we are here to help if you need us, and won't bother you if you don't! We believe you will find all the freedom and independence you desire for your gap year.

• What happens if I really don't like the work placement, either volunteer program or paid work placement , that I am on ? Can I change or drop out?

  Once you have taken up and commenced your duties with a volunteer or work placement organization, you have a basic commitment to give the work you have taken up a fair try and not just up and leave. If however there are certain exceptional reasons and you want to cut short your assignment, you must make sure that you communicate with both your gap year organization as well as a Gapguru representative about your issues. It is always our attempt to ensure that you are getting the most from your gap year program and find the best way to resolve the issues even if this requires a change to your program

• I'm a little wary of going to a place as different and intense as India. Am I getting worried over nothing or are my anxieties justified ?

  Being a little anxious or worried is not necessarily a bad thing - it shows you are aware that there are big differences in people and culture that you are going to have to deal with. However, there is certainly no need to be overly anxious. Being part of a Gapguru program, you will have all the support and advice you need, both before and during your trip, to ensure your introduction and continuing experience of India is as calm and comfortable as possible. People often say that after the initial shock, has worn off they settle into the Indian way of life, and view the experience of India's unique atmosphere as one of the most rewarding aspects of their gap year.

• If I chose a particular program now but change my mind at a later date, how flexible is it to change the format of my itinerary ?

  As there are several modules to your gap year program it would depend upon what you would like to change. Changes are normally possible up to 12 weeks prior to departure but after that it is quite difficult unless you have a valid reason for wanting to do so. All the gap placements have prior commitments and it is very difficult especially for the voluntary programs to actually not turn up at a project where you had committed your time and resources. Most of the volunteer projects go to a lot of trouble to actually make you feel special and organize welcome programs and to drop out last minute on a whim is not advisable or fair .

• Whilst traveling in India, how easy is it to keep in contact with family and friends at home and around the world ?

  It is fairly easy. We provide you with a local SIM card so that you can make and receive calls from friends and family. You could use email as well. Every town has an Internet cafe and you can easily use this to keep in touch.

• Will there be any other gappers on the same work placements and travel itineraries at the same time as me?

  Yes you will have other gappers on the work, volunteer and travel programs They may not be the same people you started one module with but that is the fun of meeting new people in your year out!