Try GOLD - Free
Gap year opportunities after matric
The Star
|January 13, 2026
FOR many matriculants, a gap year is not just about taking a break.
Some are waiting for varsity acceptance, others did not get funding, and many simply need time to figure out their next move.Parents, on the other hand, often want reassurance that a gap year will be productive and not just a year lost.
The good news is that a gap year can be a smart and valuable step if it includes earning money, gaining work experience and learning independence.
From local jobs to work and travel opportunities, here are realistic ways matriculants can earn during a gap year.
Work and travel
For matrics who want adventure, work and travel programmes remain one of the most popular gap year choices.
Cruise ships and yacht work
Working on cruise ships is a well-known option for South Africans. Jobs are usually in hospitality, housekeeping, childcare or entertainment. Accommodation and meals are included, which helps matrics save a portion of their earnings.
Yacht work is another option, especially for those willing to complete basic maritime training. Tips can significantly boost income, but competition is high, and preparation is essential.
Overseas seasonal work
This story is from the January 13, 2026 edition of The Star.
Subscribe to Magzter GOLD to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 10,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MORE STORIES FROM The Star
The Star
SAQA warns against unregistered institutions ahead of results
THE South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) has warned matriculants and parents to be cautious of unregistered institutions that exploit desperation by offering fake qualifications and false promises of admission across the country.
1 mins
January 13, 2026
The Star
Ease your Matric results anxiety with the IOL Matric portal
WE HAVE been there.
1 min
January 13, 2026
The Star
Isabel Keebine's inspiring matric journey
\"MY matric year was an interesting journey that taught me a lot of things,\" said 18-year-old Isabel Keebine, whose year was marked by perseverance, faith, and determination.
1 min
January 13, 2026
The Star
What you need to know about 2026 university fees in SA
CHOOSING a degree and university is one of the biggest decisions that learners and their families will have to make.
2 mins
January 13, 2026
The Star
Mudau’s Pirates link conundrum
MAMELODI Sundowns defender Khu-liso Mudau has been linked with what could prove to be the standout move of the current transfer window, with Orlando Pirates reportedly emerging as his potential destination - a switch that would place significant pressure on the club’s existing right-back options.
2 mins
January 13, 2026
The Star
Silindile Lubisi shares journey of resilience and academic excellence
CONSISTENCY and academic excellence defined Silindile Lubisi’s matric year, with the Forte Secondary School learner maintaining the top academic position for three consecutive terms and earning distinctions in all seven subjects, an achievement that reinforced her determination to pursue a career in law.
1 mins
January 13, 2026
The Star
Top matric achiever Nondumiso sets sights on accountancy career
NONDUMISO Sangweni of Lefhereng Secondary School approached her matric year with a clear goal in mind: to pursue a career in accounting.
1 mins
January 13, 2026
The Star
Little hope of survivors after trash collapse
HOPES of finding survivors days after the collapse of a huge mountain of trash in the central Philippines were fading, officials said at the weekend, as rescue workers dug through tons of rubble.
2 mins
January 13, 2026
The Star
Ertugral warns of title fight despite Pirates' dominance
Orlando Pirates' rapid rise under Abdeslam Ouaddou has not gone unnoticed, with veteran coach Muhsin Ertugral praising the French-Moroccan tactician's influence and backing him to develop even further with the team.
2 mins
January 13, 2026
The Star
Amakhosi make contact in Dithejane signature chase amid Downs interest
KAIZER Chiefs have taken a concrete step in their pursuit of TS Galaxy forward Puso Dithejane after making direct contact with the player's camp, signalling renewed intent to bring the former Amakhosi development product back to Naturena.
2 mins
January 13, 2026
Listen
Translate
Change font size