This article has been updated to reflect 2026 data and recent developments
A post-graduate year is a year beyond high school graduation, spent at an independent school. Some students will consider doing an “extra” year of high school in order to better prepare themselves for college in a number of areas. Reasons for pursuing a post-graduate year vary, as does the timing of this decision. Some students know early on that they would like to pursue a post-graduate year and don’t go through the college application process at all, while others decide to consider both options. Still others go through the college application process and then realize that they are not pleased with their college options and would like another year to strengthen their candidacy for colleges.
In 2026, the post-graduate year remains an established option at many independent boarding schools. Families can compare schools offering this option through Boarding School Review's post-graduate boarding schools directory.
In any of these cases, the post-graduate year is a worthwhile option to consider. This “extra” year allows a student to mature socially and/or academically, provides another year of academic preparedness and time to enhance study skills and time management, and perhaps another year to strengthen the athletic ability to pursue a sport in college. These are all valid reasons for pursuing a post-graduate year.
Many independent schools offer this option, usually to a group of 10-20 students who are essentially members of the senior class. As post-graduates, these students will have already earned a high school diploma so will be making academic choices that will enhance their profile for college by maybe filling in gaps on their transcript or taking some more advanced courses. Some schools will also have one or two required courses for their post-graduates.
The exact structure of a PG year varies by school. For example, Phillips Exeter Academy continues to offer one-year postgraduate study for students who have already completed high school. Students and families should confirm current course requirements, college counseling arrangements, testing policies, and application requirements directly with each school.
Things to Keep in Mind
There are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering a post-graduate year. For instance, while this can be an incredible experience, it is often difficult at first for post-graduate students to still be in high school when many friends have gone off to college. However, keeping the big picture in mind is important; you can be much better prepared than you would have been when it’s time for you to go to college. You may be more attractive as a candidate due to your enhanced profile and demonstrated ability to do more demanding work.
In 2026, students should also consider what they specifically want to accomplish during the year. Academic preparation, maturity, improved study habits, athletic development, or additional time to evaluate college choices may all influence the decision. Boarding School Review's overview of why students choose a gap or post-graduate year provides additional information for families comparing these options.
Also, it’s important to remember that you are only spending one year at this school so you have to make the most of it. You will no sooner be on campus than you will have to think about the next group of schools to which you will apply. It’s important to get engaged on campus quickly – academically, socially, on athletic teams, and on other extracurriculars, so you feel you are a part of the school.
College counseling can therefore be an important consideration when selecting a program. Bridgton Academy, for example, maintains a college counseling program specifically designed to support students during the postgraduate year. Families may want to ask prospective schools when college counseling begins and how frequently PG students meet individually with counselors.
Your College List
Also important is this: While your college list may not change considerably from doing a post-graduate year, you will change as a student. You may be applying to some of the same schools you would have before, but you will be much better prepared to do the work when you get there.
That point remains especially relevant in the changing college admissions environment of 2026. Testing policies continue to vary among colleges, making it important for PG students to review requirements for every institution they are considering. Boarding School Review's test-optional college admissions guide offers additional context for students navigating these policies.
Students pursuing a PG year partly for athletics should also investigate eligibility and recruiting requirements before enrolling. The NCAA provides current information relevant to prospective college athletes, but students should discuss their individual circumstances with their school counselor, coach, and the appropriate college athletics office.
The basic reasons for pursuing a post-graduate year remain much the same in 2026. The additional year can provide time for academic preparation, personal maturity, athletic development, and more thoughtful college planning. For students who use the year purposefully, it can provide an opportunity to enter college better prepared for the academic and personal demands ahead.
