Finishing high school is a massive milestone, and for a lot of people, there’s one big question that follows: ‘What’s next?‘
Some students prefer to keep the momentum going by jumping straight into uni life, while others see their acceptance letter as a perfect cue to pause, reset, and take a gap year before starting at the Australian Institute of Music. Both paths undeniably have their perks, but if your dream is to break into the music industry as soon as possible, that choice comes with a little extra weight.
Maybe you’re rethinking whether to start studying right away, or wondering if deferring for a year was the right call. Either way, it’s worth considering how each option fits into your long-term goals as a future music professional.
So, how do you decide what’s best for you? Let’s break down the benefits, the drawbacks, and how your choice can shape your journey into the world of music.
What are the benefits of taking a gap year?
Taking a gap year before studying music can be an amazing adventure. You might spend the time travelling, working, or performing more gigs. Whether you’re staying local or heading overseas, those experiences can fuel your creativity, spark new inspiration, and help you figure out who you are as an artist.
For many students, stepping away from study for a year is also a chance to reset and grow in ways the classroom can’t teach. With Year 12 in the rear-view mirror, you get your first real taste of independence; learning how to manage your time, make decisions, and build the confidence needed to chase your goals.
Some people use this time to dive deeper into music itself, whether that’s taking lessons, writing songs, or collaborating with other creatives. Others treat it as a trial run to confirm whether music is truly the path they want to pursue. You might also work part-time, save money, or start building connections in the local music scene – all of which can set you up for success once university begins.
By the time you’re ready to start your degree, you’ll likely have a stronger sense of direction, a clearer focus, and the maturity to tackle tertiary life with confidence. That self-assurance can make studying feel more meaningful and help you get the most out of every opportunity that comes your way.
What are the drawbacks of taking a gap year?
While taking a gap year can be exciting and full of potential, it’s not without its challenges, and one of the biggest hurdles is getting back into study mode.
While a gap year can be great for personal growth, there’s a fine line between taking time to reset and losing motivation altogether. What might start as a short break can easily stretch into something longer, especially if you get comfortable outside the rhythm of study.
It’s also worth thinking about the financial side of taking a gap year. Delaying your start at university could actually increase the total cost of your degree, as most institutions raise tuition fees and living expenses each year, so starting later might mean paying more overall for the same qualification.
In the fast-moving world of music, staying active and connected can make a big difference early on. The sooner you begin your degree, the sooner you can start meeting like-minded creatives, performing, and building valuable industry networks. Taking a year off might delay those opportunities and make it harder to find your footing once you return to study.
None of this means a gap year is the wrong choice, but it just depends on how you use your time. If you stay intentional and engaged with your music goals, a break can still work in your favour, but if your dream is to hit the ground running in the industry, keeping that momentum might be your best bet.
What decision should I make?
If you’re set on building a future in music, starting your studies straight after high school can give you a serious head start. Getting into your degree early means graduating sooner, and that means stepping into the industry while your skills, ideas, and motivation are fresh. You’ll be learning, performing, and collaborating at a time when the momentum from school is still on your side.
Beginning your degree earlier also helps you start building connections faster. The music world thrives on relationships, with lecturers, classmates, and other creatives often becoming your first bandmates, producers, or industry contacts. Every extra year you spend learning and creating in that environment multiplies your opportunity to grow, experiment, and get noticed.
Of course, diving straight in doesn’t mean rushing your journey. It’s about harnessing your energy and keeping your creative streak alive while everything feels new and exciting. So if you’re eager to make your mark in the music industry, starting sooner might just help you hit the right note and start turning those big dreams into real opportunities.
Still have questions about your studies? Click the button below to reach out to our team to discuss your course.
