After finishing high school, students face a tough decision about what comes next. Some choose to enter the workforce, while others opt to continue their education. Here’s a look at the main options worth considering.

One of the most popular routes after high school is continuing your education at a college or university. Higher education opens the door to a wider range of opportunities, including higher-paying jobs and career advancement — and college is also a great place to meet new people and build connections that can pay off down the line. That said, it comes at a cost, so it’s worth weighing tuition and other expenses carefully before committing.

Heading straight into the workforce is another solid option. It lets you gain real work experience, start earning, and skip the costs that come with higher education. Just keep in mind that some jobs call for specific skills or qualifications, so you may need extra training or certifications to improve your chances of getting hired.

A gap year is a year-long break after high school, giving students time to explore their interests, travel, work, or volunteer before diving into higher education or the workforce. It can be especially useful if you’re not yet sure what you want to do, or simply want more life experience before committing to a path. Just be mindful that a gap year can come with its own costs, so it’s worth planning ahead.

Whatever path you choose — higher education, the workforce, or a gap year — weigh the costs, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each. And remember: it’s always okay to change your mind and switch paths if something doesn’t feel like the right fit.