Thanks for your replies guys. I have to add though, as a precision, that I'm currently at Oxford Aviation Training, in England, and that I'm going straight for the JAA licence, not going through the FAA.
Also, does anyone know if, for example, I was to take a year off now, if there is a waiting period before being able to resit the JAA ATPL (I've just passed 7 of the 14 subjects) or even if it's impossible?