What Happens if I Took a Break in College?

By Dr. Lisa M. Wiśniewski 

The college journey includes many years of study, and it would be impossible to know what will happen during those years. The average time to complete degrees in America are two years for an associate’s degree, four years for a bachelor’s degree, and an additional two years or more for graduate work. Within that time frame a lot can change in an individual’s life. As a result, it may be difficult to stay consistent and on track to complete a degree within the time frames given. It is not unlikely that students will take breaks during their course of study to navigate any changes, have some rest from college, or examine if this is the path that they would like to continue. They important factor here is how long is the break. 

Some students plan to take a short break such as a semester off and return to their studies. It may happen that this one short break can last longer than originally planned. It is important to monitor these breaks so that they do not completely deter away from making progress in obtaining a college degree. However, even if that happens, it is possible to come back from a break from college and still complete a degree. Here are some considerations if this happens: 

Do not stress

Since it is common for students to take a break and return to college, you will not be the only one in your class that has had this experience. Do not stress returning to school because you will be able to find classmates in a similar situation and professors understand that breaks happen. You can pick up where you left off and continue your studies. 

Evaluate where you are now 

Reflect on where you are in your personal and professional journey. Are you interested in the same major? Are you doing the same type of work? Have there been any changes? Is it possible to change your course of study and the return to college may be the appropriate time to make this change. If you would like to change your course of study, work with the campus professionals such as advisors to help navigate changing a major. 

Check on your credits 

One consideration of taking a break is that college credits expire after a few years. This is why is it important to not take a break for too long because you may lose credits. If you lose credits, it will mean retaking courses and paying tuition again. Always have a copy of your unofficial transcript to monitor that courses that you have taken. This transcript will be helpful to restart college when you are ready so that you know where your starting point is. 

Work with professionals 

The professionals working at the college or university will be able to assist with the process of restarting school. Let them know where you left off (bring that unofficial transcript with you), what course of study you are interested in, and when you would like to get started. They will be able to help provide support for the rest of the process. 

Good luck in restarting your college journey 🙂