Accredited Gap Year CONSULTANTS

Photo: The Leap

Currently Accredited GYA Gap Year Consultants

GYA Accredited Gap Year Consultants have agreed to consistently abide by the GYA’s Official Standards of Accreditation

The following consultants have been vetted according to the highest standards for gap year consulting/advising. The review process involves both GYA staff and an external reviewer to ensure quality and consistency in gap year counseling.

Jane and Jason Sarouhan – the J2 behind J2Guides – know how transformative an intentional gap year can be. They are dedicated experiential educators who have spent nearly 30 years mentoring high school, gap year and college students beyond the 4 walls of a classroom. Empowerment, engagement and expertise are central to Jason and Jane’s approach in helping each student plan their best gap year. Schedule a free consultation to learn more. Services range from $600 to $2,300.

Jane and Jason are the only GYA Accredited Consultants who have held every role in the gap year field from gappers, to field instructors, to executive directors. They co-chair the GYA Alumni & Standards Committees, keynote the USA Gap Year Fairs, develop gap year curriculum and workshops, advise programs on best practices, and address media, conferences, and schools nationwide.


Since 2015, Gap Year Solutions has helped students increase college success through transformational gap experiences. Founder Katherine Stievater was the first accredited Gap Year Counselor to focus on the importance of college readiness. She works with students across the U.S. to structure travel, internships, work, service, and other activities into a customized plan. Her approach focuses on student ownership and building life skills such as problem solving, independent living, and resilience. With four boys – including three who completed gap years and another who spent his junior year of high school in Spain – Katherine knows today’s teens and what they need to be ready for college. Families appreciate her deep understanding of how gap year planning relates to the college application process. Katherine is the only accredited Gap Year Counselor who is also a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association. As an industry thought leader, she speaks regularly about gap years and has delivered hundreds of talks at high schools, conferences, and college fairs across the U.S. Katherine encourages students to embrace this unique opportunity to step off the traditional path, be authentic, and continue to discover themselves! Headquartered in Boston, MA. Inquire for pricing. Financial assistance available.


EnRoute Consulting envisions a world where high school graduates use a gap year to become more compassionate, driven and resourceful global citizens. Founder Julia Rogers provides gap year students with the guidance needed to maximize the potential of this transformative moment in life. Her personalized approach to gap year planning offers unparalleled support throughout the entire year – from initial planning to college/career transition after a year of life-changing experiences. Packages range from $1,350-$2,350.


Founded in 1980, the Center for Interim Programs is the first independent gap year counseling organization in the United States. Holly Bull and Kate Warren offer over 50 combined years of experience as gap year counselors, program researchers, program directors, overseas volunteers, and gap year students. To date, Interim has worked with more than 8,000 gap year students (of all ages), and researched, visited, and/or vetted over 6,500 programs and placements worldwide. They are sought after as contributors to publications such as the New York Times and Newsweek, keynote speakers for the USA Gap Year Fairs, presenters for NAFSA, NACAC, HECA, IECA, GYA, webinars, and high schools and conferences nationwide. Their highly personal and comprehensive service matches the needs, goals, and budget of each individual with the most suitable and wide ranging opportunities available. Free 90-minute brainstorming session. $2800 for unlimited lifetime service per individual. Needs-based scholarships available each year.


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