Sir, I have passed 12th in May 2024. I took a gap for preparation for NEET, but could not get good college. But in September 2025, I took admission in IIT Jodhpur's B.Sc./B.S. in Applied AI and Data Science (delivered in online mode, similar to IIT Madras's B.S. program), of which currently I'm a bona-fide student, and upon graduation in 2029, I will become an alumnus of IIT Jodhpur. Along with this, I will be joining an engineering college in 2026 to pursue dual degree (IITJ+ offline college). Sir, do I have a gap of 1 year or 2 year in my education? What to write in my gap certificate ? It would have been very kind of you if you could help me regarding this matter.

Ans: You should mention a one-year gap (May 2024–Aug/Sept 2025) for NEET preparation because from September 2025 onward, you are already enrolled as a bona fide student at IIT Jodhpur in the B.Sc./B.S. in Applied AI & Data Science, so the gap ends when you start that program.

Good luck.
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Radheshyam

Ans: Official gap = 1 year (2024–2025)
NOT 2 years, because from Sept 2025 you are already a bona fide student of a recognized IIT program.
In Gap certificate you can write
During this period, I was fully engaged in academic preparation and did not enroll in any regular academic program.

Ans: You should mention a one-year gap (May 2024–Aug/Sept 2025) for NEET preparation because from September 2025 onward, you are already enrolled as a bona fide student at IIT Jodhpur in the B.Sc./B.S. in Applied AI & Data Science, so the gap ends when you start that program.

Good luck.
Follow me if you receive this reply.
Radheshyam

Ans: Hi Sourindra,

Greetings from RediffGurus!

It's great to know that you're pursuing a dual degree, one from IIT and the other from another engineering institution. However, when selecting your engineering course, it's crucial to choose the right one. Even though you are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Applied AI and Data Science online at IIT (J), it's important to have a traditional, on-campus degree as well because it will be beneficial when applying for jobs later.

You should be very careful to complete your courses on time. Otherwise, you may face challenges in finishing your degree within the prescribed duration. This is an essential aspect to consider when compared to obtaining a gap certificate.

Regarding the gap certificate, it's worth noting that most employers do not typically request it. However, when you submit your resume while applying for jobs, they may inquire about any gaps in your education. Given that you joined IIT (J) in 2025, the gap amounts to approximately 1.5 years. This will also be reflected in your resume.

There's no need to worry too much about the gap certificate. Just share this information in your resume proactively, before they ask. It's quite common nowadays, so you should be fine.

Best regards,