University of Tokyo to introduce a special year-off system for freshmen

Updated on: Thursday, November 15, 2012

The University of Tokyo said that it will introduce a special year-off system for freshmen from the start of the 2013 academic year next April in Japan.

The new system will allow freshers to leave the school for one year immediately after their enrollment so they can study abroad or engage in volunteer work in areas hit by the March 2011 disaster.

The 'Fly Program' is equivalent to the 'gap year' practice common in Britain, in which students defer their enrollments following admission to broaden their experience, the university said.

Up to 30 freshmen will be involved in the program, who will also take part in internships at public offices and companies.

The prestigious university plans to shift the start of its academic year from spring to fall, and is now considering an interim measure to start classes in September while keeping the current enrollment in April.

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