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FAQs
Will
I Qualify?
Is
Peace Corps Safe?
What
Is The Application Process?
Where
Will I Be Sent?
Is
It Hard?
To become a Volunteer, Peace Corps considers the "whole person" which means that education, work experience, volunteer activities and hobbies are all important. There are some basic requirements that all applicants must have. Take this 5-minute quiz and see how well you meet these basic requirements. Other questions about qualifying to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer are answered in the main FAQs section.
Those considering volunteer service overseas often have concerns about safety and security. We live in turbulent times, of which Peace Corps is well aware. Volunteer safety and security are the primary concern for the Peace Corps as well as for family and friends. The Peace Corps offers both general safety information and specific information for family members. On the Homefront is a comprehensive document for families and friends of Peace Corps Volunteers that provides tips on to maintain contact and general perspective on serving overseas. Photo courtesy of Peace Corps
What Is The Application Process?
The earlier you complete your application prior to your availability, the better opportunity you and your recruiter have to find a great match for your skills, desired geographic region, and departure date. The process can take, on average, 6-9 months for individuals, 9-18 months for couples. Therefore, planning in advance is best. Remaining flexible about geographic preference and departure date can sometimes help to speed up the process. Read more about the steps to becoming a volunteer. Once you are ready to apply it is simply a click away. If you have questions along the way you are more than welcome to contact your local recruiter or the regional office in Arlington, VA.
Peace Corps Volunteers serve in eight regions of the world - Asia, Caribbean, Central Asia, Central/South America, Eastern Europe, North Africa/Middle East, Pacific and Sub-Saharan Africa. Peace Corps tries hard to place you in the region of your choice, however they cannot accommodate country-specific requests. Several factors determine where Volunteers are placed: skill sets requested by host countries, departure availability, and whether there are language requirements (Spanish or French are sought in three of eight regions - the Caribbean, Central/South America and West Africa respectively). Peace Corps Volunteers serve in five broad program areas - Agriculture, Business/IT, Education/Youth and Community Development, Environment, and Health/HIV AIDS.
Peace Corps service is not for everyone. One-third of those who apply go overseas as trainees. One of the best ways to learn about the Peace Corps is from current or returned Volunteers. The Peace Corps website is full of Volunteer stories that will help you determine if you are ready for service.