More students than ever before are taking a gap­-year (间隔年) before going to university. It used to be called the “year off” between school and university. The gap-­year phenomenon originated(起源) with the months left over to Oxbridge applicants between entrance exams in November and the start of the next academic year.

This year, 25,310 students who have accepted places in higher education institutions have put off their entry until next year, according to statistics on university entrance provided by the University and College Admissions Service(UCAS).

That is a record 14.7% increase in the number of students taking a gap year. Tony Higgins from UCAS said that the statistics are good news for everyone in higher education. “Students who take a well-­planned year out are more likely to be satisfied with, and complete, their chosen course. Students who take a gap year are often more mature and responsible,” he said.

But not everyone is happy. Owain James, the president of the National Union of Students(NUS), argued that the increase is evidence of student hardship－young people are being forced into earning money before finishing their education. “New students are now aware that they are likely to leave university up to £15,000 in debt. It is not surprising that more and more students are taking a gap year to earn money to support their study for the degree. NUS statistics show that over 40% of students are forced to work during term time and the figure increases to 90% during vacation periods,” he said.

1.What do we learn about the gap year from the text?

A It is flexible in length.

B It is a time for relaxation.

C It is increasingly popular.

D It is required by universities.

解析：选C。C　推理判断题。由短文首句及第三段“That is a record 14.7% increase in the number of students taking a gap year.”一句可知，说明越来越受欢迎。故选C。

2.According to Tony Higgins, students taking a gap year ________.

A are better prepared for college studies

B know a lot more about their future jobs

C are more likely to leave university in debt

D have a better chance to enter top universities

解析：选A。A　细节理解题。根据第三段Tony Higgins的话可知，度过这个间隔年的学生会变得更加成熟和富有责任感，从而更有可能完成他们所选的课程。故A项正确。

3.How does Owain James feel about the gap­-year phenomenon?

A He's puzzled.

B He's worried.

C He's surprised.

D He's annoyed.

解析：选B。B　细节理解题。由第四段首句及接下来引用Owain James的话可知，他对这一现象并不感到快乐，而是对学生的学业感到担忧。

4.What would most students do on their vacation according to NUS statistics?

A Attend additional courses.

B Make plans for the new term.

C Earn money for their education.

D Prepare for their graduate studies.

解析：选C。C　推理判断题。由短文最后一句可知，90%的学生要在假期打工挣学费。并结合前文“...young people are being forced into earning money.”故C项正确。