Adventure awaits...

Our application process includes three steps:

1.Written Application

Five short essay questions & general info.

Don't worry about grammar or writing a novel. Be yourself. Relax. Have fun with it.

Takes about 40 minutes to complete.

2. Virtual Interview

Couple holding a baby on top of a mountain

Get to know each other & ask questions.

Takes about 30 minutes.

Happens within two weeks of submitting the written app.

3. Physical Challenge

Timed six mile hike with a 30 pound pack.

Gives you feedback about your physical readiness, & if needed, time to improve.

Complete within two weeks after interviewing.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Application Process

When should I apply?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We do fill up quickly.

How long do I wait to hear if I got in?

Once you complete the three application steps, we will send a decision letter of acceptance within a week.

When is tuition due and how much does it cost?

A deposit of $1,000 is due within three weeks of acceptance along with your paperwork.

For the full Gap Year: The first installment of tuition ($4,000) is due by June 1st and the remaining balance ($4,850) is due by August 15th.
For the fall semester: The full tuition ($5,500) is due by June 1st.

Finding the right gap year program is a big commitment. We want to support you as you make this decision.

Feel free to reach out to us:

You can email us: thehighdesertcenter@gmail.com

You can call us: (970)275-1166

You can text us: (970)275-1166

Our past participants are also willing to chat.

Ready to apply? Fill out our application below.

We recommend you use this Google Doc to type your answers and paste them into the application below. Alternately you can print it and mail it to us (39091 Pitkin Rd, Paonia, CO 81428). Or you could make a video with your essay responses and email it to us (thehighdesertcenter@gmail.com).

Don't let the boxes below box you in.

Google Doc with Essay Questions

Downloadable, Printable Application

High Desert Center Application
High Desert Center Program *
Student Name *
First Last
Student Nickname
Pronouns
Student E-mail *
Parent Email
example@example.com
Student Phone Number *
Area Code Phone Number
Address *
Street Address
Street Address Line 2
City State / Province
Postal / Zip Code Country
Age at start of Program *
Birth Date *
Month Day Year
Citizenship *
Passport Status *
I already have a Passport valid past the program ending date I don't yet have a passport or it's not valid through the program
How did you find out about this program? *

Questions for the High Desert Center Applicant
All High Desert Programs are alcohol, drug and tobacco free. Do you see any problem in complying with this policy? *
Yes No
Has the applicant been under the care of a health professional in the past 12 months? *
Yes No
Is there anything we should know about the applicant's physical or mental health that might have some bearing on his or her participation in this program? *
Yes No
If "Yes" to any of the above questions, please provide an explanation

Applicant Essay Questions
Please answer the following with one to three paragraphs each
Why are you applying to this program? What do you hope to gain from it? *
Successful participants are self motivated, do more than their share of chores, and thrive living in a group. Is this you? How do you know? *
Participation in this program requires that you are in good shape and committed to getting in better shape. For instance, do you know that you could walk 6 miles in two hours with a pack? How do you know and how will you prepare?
Describe what the necessary ingredients are for you to thrive. *
Describe yourself as if you were somebody who knows you well and who is bluntly honest. *
Should be Empty:

Adventure awaits...

Our application process includes three steps:

Frequently Asked Questions About the Application Process

Finding the right gap year program is a big commitment. We want to support you as you make this decision.

Ready to apply? Fill out our application below.

High Desert Center Application

Questions for the High Desert Center Applicant

Applicant Essay Questions

We look forward to getting to know you!