<p>Tough position. Taking a gap year is risky because you’re banking on an acceptance to a very competitive school. I wouldn’t suggest it unless she finds a number of other schools to apply to that she would also like attending. Other small NE LACs might provide an atmosphere similar (if not preferable) to Amherst, although you’d have to keep an eye out for the equestrian team. In any case, I highly doubt that Amherst would accept a late application this year given that they had to reject people that they wanted to accept, but it’s worth calling.</p>
<p>Transferring is also risky business. A lot of people would suggest it, but at most schools only a very small portion of transfer applicants are admitted. There will be a lot of people trying to transfer into Amherst next year.</p>