Gap year goals: How matriculants can earn real money while taking a break
Working at events and festivals is a great way to earn money.
Image: Freepic Diller / Freepik
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
Some South Africans work at summer camps in the USA as counsellors or activity leaders. These roles are paid and include accommodation and meals.
Other seasonal options include hospitality and tourism jobs in countries like Canada or Australia, although visa eligibility for South Africans must be checked carefully.
Reputable agencies to research include Awesome Work and Travel, Epic Exchange and Jenza.
Yacht work is another option, especially for those willing to complete basic maritime training.
Image: Freepik
Local jobs that pay
Not every gap year needs a passport. Many matrics earn well locally while gaining valuable work experience.
Event and festival work
Event work is extremely popular among gap year students. This includes working at music festivals, sports events, exhibitions and food markets.
Roles may include ticket scanning, ushering, brand promotion, catering and bar work. The hours are flexible, and pay is usually per shift, making it ideal for a gap year schedule.
Retail and hospitality
Restaurants, coffee shops, hotels and retail stores often hire gap year students for casual or seasonal work. These jobs build customer service skills and provide a steady income, especially during peak holiday periods.
Tutoring and childcare
Matriculants who performed well academically can earn money tutoring school learners. Maths, science and languages are always in demand. Babysitting and local au pair work are also popular options.
If you did well you can always tutor little ones.
Image: Yan Krukau / Pexels
Internships and entry-level experience
A gap year can also be used to explore career interests.
Paid internships or stipend-based roles are available in marketing, tourism, admin, education and media. While not always high paying, they offer experience that strengthens a CV and helps matrics make informed study choices.
Platforms like SAYouth, Harambee and YES4Youth are good starting points for legitimate opportunities.
Online and freelance work
Digitally inclined matrics can earn from anywhere with online work.
Popular options include social media management, virtual assistant work, content creation, graphic design and online tutoring.
These skills can be learned quickly and often turn into long-term income streams.
What to watch out for when researching gap year work
Not all opportunities are legitimate. Both matrics and parents should research carefully.
Be cautious of:
- Agencies asking for high upfront fees
- Guaranteed job promises without interviews
- Vague job descriptions
- Requests for payment before visas or contracts are confirmed
Always check reviews, ask questions and confirm visa requirements independently.
A gap year does not have to mean standing still. With the right plan, South African matriculants can earn money, gain independence and build skills that will benefit them long after the year is over.
For parents, a structured gap year can be a valuable investment. For matrics, it can be the first real step into adulthood and the working world.