Gap Year Readiness Self-Assessment
Are you ready for a Rise Crew-style gap year — or do you need prep first?
Purpose: Honest pre-assessment before committing to intensive discipleship, BSSM-style training, internship, or retreat-centre programming.
Scoring: Rate each statement 1–5 (1 = not true · 5 = strongly true)
Section 1: Spiritual Foundation
| # | Statement | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I have a personal relationship with Jesus — not only cultural Christianity | |
| 2 | I read scripture regularly (or want to and need structure) | |
| 3 | I pray — even when it feels dry | |
| 4 | I am part of a local church or faith community | |
| 5 | I can name what God is doing in my life right now |
Section total: ___/25
Section 2: Emotional & Mental Readiness
| # | Statement | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | I can name my current emotional state honestly | |
| 7 | I have at least one safe person I can confess to | |
| 8 | I am not in active crisis without support (addiction, suicidal ideation, untreated trauma) | |
| 9 | I am willing to be uncomfortable for the sake of growth | |
| 10 | I can receive feedback without shutting down or attacking |
Section total: ___/25
If #8 scores 1–2: Pause. Seek pastoral/professional support before a gap year. Formation intensifies what is unresolved.
Section 3: Practical Stewardship
| # | Statement | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | I can manage basic finances (budget, debt awareness) | |
| 12 | I can maintain hygiene, sleep, and daily routines without parental enforcement | |
| 13 | I can complete commitments I start | |
| 14 | I have a plan for funding this season (savings, work, sponsorship) | |
| 15 | I have discussed this with family/spouse and have their support |
Section total: ___/25
Section 4: Calling & Mission
| # | Statement | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | I sense God may be calling me to more than my current path | |
| 17 | I am willing to be sent — not only taught | |
| 18 | I want to develop both spiritual gifts and practical skills | |
| 19 | I am open to Wales/international/community living contexts | |
| 20 | I want to mentor others eventually — not only be mentored |
Section total: ___/25
Section 5: Community & Character
| # | Statement | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 21 | I can live with others without dominating or disappearing | |
| 22 | I practise honour — even with people I disagree with | |
| 23 | I serve when no one is watching | |
| 24 | I am willing to limit phone/social media for formation | |
| 25 | I value legacy over comfort |
Section total: ___/25
Total Score: ___/125
| Range | Readiness level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 100–125 | Ready | Apply for gap year / internship track |
| 75–99 | Almost ready | 3-month prep plan (see below) |
| 50–74 | Prep season | 6-month foundation track first |
| Below 50 | Stabilise first | Focus on stocktake, community, healing |
3-Month Prep Plan (for 75–99 range)
Month 1 — Rhythms
- Complete Rule of Life (#16)
- Daily prayer minimum 15 min
- Spiritual Stocktake (#11)
Month 2 — Community
- Join or form small group (#21)
- Find mentor (#20)
- Begin 5-fold assessment (#15)
Month 3 — Mission
- Weekly service act
- Write calling statement (#24)
- Re-take this assessment
Application Questions (short answer)
Why do you want a gap year now?
What do you hope to be different in 12 months?
What is your greatest fear about this season?
Who is your reference (pastor/leader)? Name: _______________ Contact: _______________
Leader Review Section (for mentors)
Applicant: _______________ Date: _______________ Recommendation: ☐ Accept ☐ Prep first ☐ Defer ☐ Decline
Notes:
Rise Crew · Share freely · Gap year & South Wales Project pipeline