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Large numbers of undergraduates are considering a gap year before starting work or furthering their studies, according to new research.

The study by TMP Worldwide found more than one in ten final or penultimate year students are definitely taking a gap year and 42 per cent said they were considering it.

More than half of those deciding against a gap year want to get on the career ladder, while more than a quarter said the cost of travelling was putting them off taking time out after university.

But, the research also shows that employers often don't recognise the skills obtained by students on a gap year, with 13 per cent saying that it was a topic of conversation that never came up.

Jayne Cullen, head of graduate solutions at TMP Worldwide said: "A lot of final year students are planning a gap year to let the dust settle after what has been a turbulent time in the UK economy."

According to research by the Network, Australia and New Zealand are the top destinations for people taking a gap year.

To find and apply for the latest gap year jobs see our dedicated gap year jobs section.