The Peace Corps champions such issues as AIDS education, information technology and environmental preservation.
The Peace Corps was born out of Senator John F. Kennedy's 1960 challenge to students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries. Today, more than 200,000 Peace Corps volunteers have served in 139 host countries.
Qualifications
Volunteers seeking to join the Peace Corps must commit to 27 months of training and service overseas; short-term assignments are not offered. During this time, volunteers undergo language training and service training. Volunteers with knowledge of a foreign language may qualify for placement in certain regions. While volunteers must be at least 18 years old, there is no upper age limit to join the Peace Corps. Frequently, the Peace Corps requires a combination of job experience and education. Opportunities for college graduates and community college students are available.
Application Requirements
The Peace Corps accepts applications year round; there is no cut-off date. On average, the application process takes nine months from completion of an application to departure for service; however, applicants are encouraged by the Peace Corps to apply nine to 12 months before they expect to depart for service. After receipt of an application, a Peace Corps recruiter will contact an applicant within two to three weeks.
Application Steps
The application process is made up of: an application; an interview; medical, legal, suitability and competitive reviews; an invitation; and preparation for departure. All volunteers must submit a completed application form, which includes two essays, three references, employment history, resume, community and volunteer activities, and educational background, along with a copy of college transcripts and an itemized list of the volunteer's financial obligations. A phone interview is intended to gauge the fit of the applicant with the Peace Corps.
Pay
The Peace Corps provides its volunteers with a living allowance, which allows volunteers to live in the same manner in which the people of their community live. Volunteers also receive complete medical and dental care and an end-of-service payment of $7,425 (before taxes). Although the end-of-service payment is intended to help volunteers transition back home, the money can be used for anything.
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