With thousands of A-level students missing out on university places, some gap year companies are predicting a rise of up to 150% on bookings for 2010.

Employers are reported to look favourably upon students who have travelled, but experts have stressed the importance of planning a structured trip.

The Telegraph’s Catherine Paver claims that a “good gap year” can give students and graduates the edge over their peers. Relevant travel, work or volunteering can demonstrate commitment to your chosen course or career.

“Far from being a problem, it can be a solution. If you don’t know what to do, use a gap year to help you decide. If you do, use it to help you get there.”

For more information on planning a gap year, visit our Getting Started page.