How To Get Education Gap Certificate in India: Documents, Procedure, Cost and Time in 2026

Taking a break in academics is common, but formal proof is often required to explain the gap. An education gap certificate, usually in affidavit form, helps validate the reason for this interruption and ensures credibility during admissions, job applications, or when applying for an education loan. Knowing how to get an education gap certificate is essential for avoiding delays and securing approvals. It acts as an official record, making it easier to continue your studies or career without unnecessary complications.

How to Get an Education Gap Certificate - Quick Info

This table provides a consolidated overview of the key aspects of the process for obtaining an education gap certificate, offering a quick reference for students and parents. [1]

What is an Education Gap Certificate?

An education gap certificate, also known as a Gap Affidavit or a Gap Year Certificate, is a formal legal document prepared on non-judicial stamp paper. Its purpose is to provide a sworn declaration from a student detailing the reason and duration of a break in their studies. This education gap affidavit serves as an official explanation to academic institutions, ensuring transparency and accountability in a student's academic record.

When Do You Need an Education Gap Certificate?

Any student typically requires a gap certificate when there is a discontinuity of one academic year or more in their educational timeline. It is most commonly requested during the admissions process for colleges and universities. Furthermore, it is often a mandatory document when applying for an education gap certificate for an education loan, as financial institutions need a formal explanation for the break in studies. Some countries may also require this document for student visa applications.

Documents Required for Education Gap Certificate

To prepare a legally valid affidavit for education gap, you will need to present a standard set of documents to the Notary Public for verification. [1]

The primary documents required for the education gap certificate include:

• A government-issued photo ID such as an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport.
• A document verifying your current residential address, which can also be your Aadhaar Card or Passport.
• The mark sheet, passing certificate, or transfer certificate from the last school or college you attended.
• Evidence to support the reason for your gap(if needed), such as a medical certificate for health issues or an experience letter for a period of employment.

How to Get an Education Gap Certificate: Step-by-Step Guide

The process for obtaining this formal document is straightforward and involves three primary legal steps. Following this guide will ensure your student gap certificate is prepared correctly.

• Step 1: The first step is to get an affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper. This document must clearly state your full name, address, details of your last qualification, the exact duration of the gap, and the specific reason for the break in your studies. It must also include a declaration that you were not involved in any illegal activities during that time.
• Step 2: The affidavit must be printed on a non-judicial stamp paper of the appropriate value (typically ₹10 to ₹100, based on state regulations). This can be procured from a local court, sub-registrar's office, or licensed stamp vendors. For convenience, an e-affidavit service can also be utilised.
• Step 3: The final step is to get the affidavit attested. You must visit a licensed Notary Public with your drafted affidavit and all supporting documents. You will sign the document in the notary's presence, who will then verify your details and affix their official seal and signature, making the affidavit a legally valid gap certificate.

Cost of Getting an Education Gap Certificate

The total cost for an education gap certificate is generally quite affordable. It primarily consists of the government-mandated stamp paper value and the professional fees for notarization. [2]

• Stamp Paper Cost: This is the cost of the non-judicial stamp paper on which the affidavit is printed, typically ranging from ₹100 to ₹500.
• Notary Fees: The fee charged by the Notary Public for the attestation service. This generally ranges from ₹50 to ₹250. The specific duties of a notary public include this verification.
• Drafting Charges: If a lawyer or professional service is engaged to draft the affidavit content, a separate fee will be applicable for their services.

Common Reasons for an Education Gap

Educational institutions recognise that students may take a break from their studies for various valid and constructive reasons. [1]

• Preparation for Competitive Exams: Many students take a year or more to prepare for entrance examinations like JEE, NEET, CLAT, or civil services.
• Financial Difficulties: A gap may be necessary to work and arrange funds to support future higher education expenses.
• Medical or Family Emergencies: A break may be required to recover from a personal illness or to attend to serious family matters or responsibilities.
• Gaining Work Experience: Some students choose to gain practical work experience in a relevant field before pursuing a postgraduate degree.
• Personal Development and Travel: A gap year for travel, volunteering, or self-discovery is an increasingly common and accepted reason for an academic break.

How can NoBroker’s Affidavit Services Help?

Preparing an education gap affidavit demands accuracy, as institutions may reject incomplete or incorrect formats. NoBroker’s online affidavit services offer a seamless way to get this certificate without hassles. Our experts draft a legally valid affidavit, print it on proper stamp paper, and handle notarization on your behalf. The finalised certificate is delivered straight to your doorstep, ensuring a reliable, compliant, and time-saving solution for students who need quick documentation support.