<p>Would it be bad to state that you plan to defer acceptance, maybe even write about how you plan to in an essay, even if there is a legitimate reason</p>
<p>i.e. learn a language abroad of gain more life experiences</p>
<p>Don’t say this in the application!</p>
<p>Apply to the schools that interest you.
When you get all of your acceptances and financial aid offers next April, consider your options.
If you still want to take a year off, contact the school that you want to attend when you come back, and ask if they will allow you to defer enrollment for a year.</p>
<p>If you are positive that you will take a year off. You don’t need to apply to colleges this year. You can enjoy your last year of HS, plan your “gap year”, and organize any paperwork you will need to apply to college later. Many students who opt for a gap year find that their goals change significantly, and they end up with an entirely new list of colleges.</p>