how long is a peace corps assignment

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22 U.S.C. 2503 , 2504 2521 ; 29 U.S.C. 794 ; E.O. 12137 , 44 FR 29023 , 3 CFR , 1979 Comp., p. 389; E.O. 13160 , 65 FR 39775 , 3 CFR , 2000 Comp., p. 1461.

82 FR 1188 , Jan. 5, 2017, unless otherwise noted.

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Part 305—eligibility and standards for peace corps volunteer service, § 305.1 purpose and general guidelines..

This part states the requirements for eligibility for Peace Corps Volunteer service and the factors considered in the assessment and selection of eligible applicants for Peace Corps Volunteer service.

( a ) Definitions. For purposes of this part:

( 1 ) Applicant means an individual for enrollment as a Volunteer, who has completed and submitted the Peace Corps Volunteer application form.

( 2 ) Trainee means an individual for enrollment as a Volunteer during any period of training occurring prior to such enrollment.

( 3 ) Volunteer means an individual who has taken the prescribed oath and enrolled for service in the Peace Corps.

( 4 ) Enrollment means the act by which an individual becomes a Volunteer upon successful completion of training and taking the prescribed oath of office pursuant to Section 5 of the Peace Corps Act, 22 U.S.C. 2504 .

( 5 ) Dependent means an individual for whom an applicant or Volunteer has a legal or familial obligation to provide financial support.

( 6 ) Family member means any individual related by blood or affinity whose close association with the applicant or Volunteer is the equivalent of a family relationship.

( b ) Selection. Invitations to serve in the Peace Corps are the result of a highly competitive application process. Many more individuals apply for Peace Corps Volunteer service than can be accepted. Because the Peace Corps cannot accept all eligible and qualified applicants who wish to serve, it evaluates applicants to select the best qualified among eligible applicants. The Peace Corps determines Applicants' eligibility, and assesses their relative skills, qualifications, and personal attributes, such as motivation, aptitude, fitness for service, emotional maturity, adaptability, productive competence, and ability to serve effectively as a Volunteer in a foreign country and culture.

( c ) Authority. Under section 5(a) of the Peace Corps Act, 22 U.S.C. 2504(a) , the President may enroll in the Peace Corps for service abroad qualified citizens and nationals of the United States. The terms and conditions of the enrollment of Volunteers are exclusively those set forth in the Peace Corps Act and those consistent therewith which the President may prescribe. The President has delegated his authority under section 5(a) of the Peace Corps Act to the Director of the Peace Corps pursuant to Executive Order 12137 (May 16, 1979), as amended.

( d ) Non-discrimination. The Peace Corps does not discriminate against any person on account of race, color, religion, sex (including but not limited to gender identity and gender expression), national origin, age (40 and over), disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, political affiliation, union membership, genetic information, or history of participation in the EEO process, any grievance procedure or any authorized complaint procedure. Anyone who feels he or she has been discriminated against should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Diversity, 202.692.2139, [email protected] , Peace Corps, 1111 20th Street NW., Washington, DC 20526.

( e ) Failure to disclose requested information. In order for the Peace Corps to be able to make appropriate selection and placement decisions, it is critical that Applicants provide complete and accurate information throughout the application process, including information provided for a mandatory background investigation. The Peace Corps may disqualify an Applicant or separate a Volunteer or Trainee from Peace Corps service at any time if the Peace Corps determines that the Applicant, Volunteer, or Trainee provided materially false, misleading, inaccurate or incomplete information during the Peace Corps application process.

§ 305.2 Eligibility.

In order to be eligible for enrollment as a Volunteer, Applicants must meet mandatory citizenship and age requirements.

( a ) Citizenship. The Applicant must be a citizen or national of the United States prior to entering on duty as a Trainee.

( b ) Age. The Applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of entry on duty as a Trainee.

§ 305.3 Selection standards.

( a ) General. To qualify for selection for overseas service as a Volunteer, an Applicant must demonstrate that he or she is suitable, possessing the requisite personal and professional attributes required for Peace Corps service generally, and for the particular Volunteer assignment for which he or she is considered. The Peace Corps assesses each Applicant's personal, professional, educational, and legal qualifications in order to select those Applicants most likely to be successful in a Peace Corps assignment, serving under conditions of hardship if necessary to achieve the goals of the Peace Corps. Meeting these qualifications does not in and of itself entitle any individual to serve in the Peace Corps. The Peace Corps endeavors to select the best qualified individuals from among all eligible Applicants.

( b ) Personal attributes. Applicants must adequately demonstrate the following personal attributes to Peace Corps:

( 1 ) Motivation. A sincere desire to carry out the goals of Peace Corps service, and a commitment to serve a full term as a Volunteer.

( 2 ) Productive competence. The intelligence and professional experience or educational background to meet the needs of the individual's assignment.

( 3 ) Emotional maturity and adaptability. The maturity, flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and self-sufficiency to adapt successfully to life in another culture, and to interact and communicate with other people regardless of cultural, social, and economic differences.

( 4 ) Skills. In addition to any educational, professional or other qualifications and prerequisites that an individual must possess in order to be selected for a given assignment, a Trainee must demonstrate competence in the following areas by the end of pre-service training:

( i ) Language. The ability to communicate effectively in the appropriate language or languages of the country of service with the fluency required to meet the needs of the overseas assignment.

( ii ) Technical competence. Proficiency in the technical skills needed to carry out the Trainee's assignment as a Volunteer.

( iii ) Knowledge. Adequate knowledge of the culture and history of the country of assignment to ensure a successful adjustment to, and acceptance by, the host country society, as well as an appropriate understanding of the history and government of the United States which qualifies the individual to represent the United States abroad.

( c ) Failure to meet standards. Failure to meet initial selection standards, failure to attain any of the selection standards by the completion of training, or failure to maintain these standards during service, may be grounds for de-selection and disqualification from Peace Corps service.

§ 305.4 Medical status eligibility standard.

( a ) Requirements. Under the Peace Corps Act ( 22 U.S.C. 2504(e) ), the Peace Corps is responsible for ensuring that Peace Corps Volunteers receive all necessary or appropriate health care during their service. To ensure that the Peace Corps will be capable of doing so, Applicants must be medically qualified for Peace Corps Volunteer service. An Applicant who is otherwise qualified must meet the following requirements:

( 1 ) The Applicant, with or without reasonable accommodation, removal of architectural, communication or transportation barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services, must have the physical and mental capacity required to meet the essential eligibility requirements for a Volunteer. In this context, the essential eligibility requirements for a Volunteer include, without limitation, the capability to:

( i ) Live and work independently in an isolated location overseas at the same socio-economic level and in similar conditions as members of the community to which the Applicant is assigned;

( ii ) Perform the job to which the Applicant is assigned; and

( iii ) Complete a specified tour of service without undue disruption.

( 2 ) The Peace Corps must be capable of providing the Applicant with such health care as the Peace Corps deems to be necessary or appropriate.

( 3 ) The Applicant must not pose a direct threat (as defined in paragraph (c) of this section).

( b ) Individualized assessment. In determining whether an Applicant is medically qualified, an individualized assessment is required regarding each of the requirements set forth in paragraph (a) of this section.

( c ) Direct threat.

( 1 ) A “direct threat” is a significant risk to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated by a reasonable accommodation to policies, practices or procedures, removal of architectural, communication or transportation barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services.

( 2 ) In determining whether an applicant poses a direct threat, the Peace Corps will make an individualized assessment based on reasonable judgment that relies on current medical knowledge or on the best available objective evidence to ascertain:

( i ) The nature, duration and severity of the risk;

( ii ) The probability that the potential injury will actually occur; and

( iii ) Whether reasonable accommodations, removal of architectural, communication or transportation barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services will mitigate the risk.

( d ) Reasonable accommodation.

( 1 ) The term “accommodation” means modifications to the Peace Corps' policies, practices or procedures.

( 2 ) An accommodation is not reasonable if:

( i ) It would modify the essential eligibility requirements for a Volunteer;

( ii ) It would modify, among other things, the Applicant's Volunteer assignment or the Peace Corps' medical program in a way that would result in a fundamental alteration in the nature of the service, program, or activity; or

( iii ) It would impose an undue financial and administrative burden on the operations of the Peace Corps, including its medical program.

( 3 ) In determining whether an accommodation would impose an undue financial and administrative burden on the operations of the Peace Corps, the Peace Corps may take into account, among other things:

( i ) The size and composition of the Peace Corps staff at the post of assignment;

( ii ) The adequacy of local medical facilities and the availability of other medical facilities;

( iii ) The nature and cost of the accommodation compared to the overall number of Volunteers and the overall size of the Peace Corps budget; and

( iv ) The capacities of the host country agency and of the host community to which the Applicant would be assigned.

( e ) Medical status eligibility review.

( 1 ) An Applicant who is determined by medical screening staff not to be medically qualified for Peace Corps Volunteer service may request review of that decision by submitting any relevant information to the Office of Medical Services (OMS). The information submitted by the Applicant will be reviewed by a physician, and, unless the physician determines that the Applicant is medically qualified, by a Pre-Service Review Board (PSRB) composed of medical personnel in OMS and advised by the General Counsel. Procedures for such review are subject to approval by the General Counsel.

( 2 ) The PSRB will include as voting members at least one physician as well as other medical professionals in OMS. In any case involving review of issues involving mental health, at least one mental health professional from the Counseling and Outreach Unit will also participate as a voting member.

( 3 ) The decision of the PSRB will be reviewed by the General Counsel for legal sufficiency. Subject to that review, it will constitute the final agency action.

§ 305.5 Legal status eligibility standard.

( a ) General requirements. The existence of an arrest or conviction record may, but will not automatically, exclude an Applicant from consideration for Peace Corps service. The Peace Corps will consider the nature of the offense, how long ago the offense occurred, whether the Applicant was acquitted of the offense, the terms of any applicable parole or probation, and other relevant facts or indications of rehabilitation.

( b ) Drug and alcohol related offenses.

( 1 ) An Applicant with any drug-related conviction, with a conviction for public intoxication, driving under the influence (DUI), or driving while intoxicated (DWI), with a conviction for reckless driving after having been initially charged with DUI or DWI, or with a similar alcohol-related conviction, is not eligible to have his or her application for Peace Corps service considered until 12 months has passed from the date of the incident.

( 2 ) An Applicant who, at any time on or prior to the day of departure for Peace Corps service, is arrested for any drug offense or for public intoxication, DUI, DWI or any similar alcohol-related offense will have any pending application or invitation for Peace Corps service withdrawn. If the charges are dismissed, an Applicant whose application or invitation for Peace Corps service was terminated may immediately reapply. If the applicant is convicted of the offense, he or she may reapply after 12 months from the date of the incident.

( c ) Review process. An Applicant who is rejected for a Volunteer position because of an arrest or conviction may request a review of that decision by submitting any relevant information to the Associate Director of the Office of Volunteer Recruitment and Selection (VRS). The Associate Director will review the information submitted and consult with the General Counsel. The decision of the Associate Director will be the final agency decision. The Associate Director may delegate authority to conduct such a review to another senior member of VRS, but not to the supervisor of the office making the original eligibility determination.

( d ) Subsequent application. An Applicant rejected for service due to failure to meet the legal status eligibility standard may reapply at a later date, but not sooner than 12 months after the final agency decision.

§ 305.6 Applicants with an intelligence background.

( a ) General. It has been the longstanding policy of the Peace Corps to exclude from Volunteer service any individuals who have engaged in intelligence activity or related work or who have been employed by or connected with an intelligence agency, either for a specific period of time or permanently (depending on the agency). This policy is founded on the premise that it is crucial to the Peace Corps in carrying out its mission that there be a complete and total separation of Peace Corps from the intelligence activities of the United States Government or any foreign government, both in reality and appearance. Any semblance of a connection between the Peace Corps and the intelligence community would seriously compromise the ability of the Peace Corps to develop and maintain the trust and confidence of the people of the host countries. To ensure that there is not the slightest basis for the appearance of any connection between the Peace Corps and the intelligence community, this policy contains certain temporary and permanent bars to Peace Corps service. Serious doubts about an Applicant's connection with intelligence activities are to be resolved in favor of exclusion.

( b ) Definitions. For purposes of this section:

( 1 ) Intelligence activity includes any activities or specialized training involving or related to the clandestine collection of information, or the analysis or dissemination of such information, intended for use by the United States Government or any foreign government in formulating or implementing political or military policy in regard to other countries. The term “intelligence activity” includes any involvement in covert actions designed to influence events in foreign countries. The fact that the name of an employer or the description of a person's work uses or does not use the term “intelligence” does not, in and of itself, mean that the person has or has not engaged in intelligence activity or related work.

( 2 ) Intelligence agency includes:

( i ) Any agency, division of an agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government that is a member of the United States Intelligence Community; and

( ii ) Any other agency, division of an agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government or any foreign government, a substantial part of whose mission has been determined by the General Counsel to include intelligence activities.

( 3 ) Employment, employee or employed refer to the existence of a relationship of employer and employee, whether full-time or part-time, permanent or temporary, whether or not the individual is engaged in intelligence activity for an employer, without regard to the length of time the relationship existed or is proposed to exist, and includes individuals performing duties as volunteers, fellows, interns, consultants, personal services contractors, contractors (non-personal services contractors), and employees of contractors who were assigned to work for an intelligence agency or to engage in intelligence activities. Employees of contractors who were or are not themselves assigned to work for an Intelligence Agency or to engage in intelligence activities are not considered to have been or to be employed by an intelligence agency.

( c ) Employment by an intelligence agency or engagement in intelligence activities.

( 1 ) An Applicant currently or formerly employed by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is permanently ineligible for Peace Corps Volunteer service.

( 2 ) An Applicant who has been employed by an intelligence agency other than the CIA is ineligible for a minimum of 10 years from the last day of employment by such intelligence agency. This bar on an Applicant who is or was employed by an intelligence agency applies whether or not the Applicant was engaged in intelligence activity for the intelligence agency.

( 3 ) An Applicant who has been engaged in intelligence activities is ineligible for service as a Volunteer for a period of 10 years from the last date on which the Applicant engaged in intelligence activities.

( 4 ) An Applicant may be ineligible for service for a period in excess of 10 years if the General Counsel determines that the Applicant's background or work history with regard to intelligence activities warrants such action.

( d ) Relationship to intelligence agency or activity.

( 1 ) An Applicant whose background discloses a relationship to an intelligence agency or intelligence activity may be ineligible to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer. The term “relationship” means any association with an intelligence agency or with an intelligence activity, if such association could be the basis for an inference or the appearance that an Applicant was engaged in an intelligence activity. The association could include, but not be limited to, one based upon a familial, personal or financial connection to an intelligence agency or with an intelligence activity.

( 2 ) Determinations of the eligibility or periods of ineligibility of such Applicants will be made by the General Counsel on a case by case basis using the criteria set forth below. Examples of the type of relationships among others that could lead to ineligibility are Applicants whose spouses, domestic partners, or parents are or were involved in actual intelligence activities, or members of the immediate family of prominent highly placed officials in an intelligence agency who might be the target of harassment or violence overseas as the result of family connections. Employment by an organization that has been funded by an intelligence agency may also lead to ineligibility.

( 3 ) In determining whether an Applicant's relationship to an intelligence agency or intelligence activity makes the Applicant ineligible for service, or in determining the duration of any ineligibility, the General Counsel will consider the following factors as appropriate:

( i ) Nature of the relationship.

( ii ) The intelligence agency with which the Applicant has the relationship.

( iii ) Duration of the relationship.

( iv ) Length of time that has elapsed since the last connection to the intelligence agency.

( v ) Where the intelligence activity or work was performed.

( vi ) Nature of the connection with intelligence activity or work.

( vii ) Whether or not the intelligence activity or work involved contact with foreign nationals.

( viii ) Whether the connection was known or unknown to the Applicant at the time it occurred.

( ix ) Training received, if any.

( x ) Regularity of the contact with foreign nationals, and nature of duties, if any.

( xi ) Public knowledge of the activity or connection.

( xii ) Any other information which bears on the relationship of the Applicant to an intelligence agency or intelligence activity.

( e ) Determination. VRS is responsible for the initial screening of Peace Corps Volunteer applications for compliance with the provisions of this policy. In cases where that office is unable to make a decision regarding the eligibility of an Applicant under this policy, the individual's application will be referred to the General Counsel, who will make the determination on eligibility.

( f ) Appeal. VRS will inform all Applicants promptly and in writing of any decision to disqualify them based on an intelligence background and the reasons for that decision. Applicants have 15 days from the date of receipt of the letter from VRS to appeal the decision to the Director of the Peace Corps. The decision of the Director of the Peace Corps will be the final agency decision.

( g ) Post Peace Corps employment by United States intelligence agencies. Pursuant to agreements between the Peace Corps and certain intelligence agencies, those intelligence agencies will not employ former Volunteers for a specified period after the end of their Peace Corps service and will not use former Volunteers for certain purposes or in certain positions. Information regarding such agreements may be obtained from the Office of the General Counsel.

§ 305.7 Special circumstances.

( a ) Couples. Two Applicants who are married to one another or two unmarried Applicants who are in a same-sex or opposite-sex domestic partnership or other committed relationship are eligible to apply for service as a couple. In the case of an unmarried couple, each member of the couple must provide a sworn statement, in a form acceptable to the Peace Corps, attesting to their domestic partnership status or committed relationship (as the case may be) and their request to be considered for assignment as a couple. In all cases, both members of the couple must apply and qualify for assignment at the same location.

( b ) Serving with dependents and other family members. In general, dependents and other family members may not accompany a Volunteer during service. However, the Peace Corps may from time to time make exceptions either on a case-by-case basis or for particular categories of Volunteers to the extent permitted by Federal law.

( c ) Military service. The Peace Corps welcomes applications from veterans, reservists, and active duty military personnel who are interested in Peace Corps service after completion of their military service. After receiving an invitation for Peace Corps service, applicants with reserve obligations are reminded to comply with all requirements to notify their reserve component that they will be unavailable for drills and annual training because of their Peace Corps service. Such applicants are urged to obtain written confirmation from their reserve component that they have complied with these requirements.

§ 305.8 Background investigation.

Section 22 of the Peace Corps Act requires that each Applicant be investigated to ensure that enrollment of the Applicant as a Volunteer is consistent with the national interest. The Peace Corps therefore obtains an appropriate background investigation for all Applicants who are invited to serve in the Peace Corps. Information revealed by the background investigation may be grounds for disqualification from Peace Corps service. Under the Peace Corps Act, if a background investigation regarding an Applicant develops any data reflecting that the Applicant is of questionable loyalty or is a questionable security risk, the Peace Corps must refer the matter to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a full field investigation. The results of that full field investigation will be furnished to the Peace Corps for information and appropriate action.

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How long are Peace Corps assignments?

1. what is the average length of a peace corps assignment, 2. are there any shorter-term options available, 3. can i extend my assignment beyond the standard 27 months, 4. what happens during the first three months of training, 5. how long is the training conducted in the host country, 6. are there any specific time commitments for certain programs, 7. can i choose the length of my assignment, 8. are there any time off or vacation days during the assignment, 9. what happens after completing the 27-month assignment, 10. are there any financial benefits associated with longer assignments, 11. what percentage of volunteers choose to extend their service, 12. is there an age limit for peace corps volunteers, 13. what if my personal circumstances change during the assignment, 14. can i take on multiple peace corps assignments consecutively, 15. what impact do longer assignments have on volunteers.

The Peace Corps is renowned for its commitment to international service and its mission to promote peace and friendship around the world. If you are considering joining the Peace Corps, one of the most important things to understand is the duration of the assignments. In this article, we will delve into the length of Peace Corps assignments and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

Peace Corps assignments typically last for 27 months, including training. This duration allows volunteers to fully immerse themselves in the host country’s culture, language, and community. The first three months consist of intensive training, followed by two years of service at the assigned site.

Yes, there are specialized programs that offer shorter-term assignments. Peace Corps Response, for example, provides opportunities for experienced professionals to serve for six to twelve months in specific areas of need. These assignments often focus on targeted projects that require specialized skills.

Yes, some volunteers choose to extend their service beyond the initial assignment. Depending on the circumstances and availability, volunteers may request an extension of three, six, nine, or twelve months, allowing them to further contribute to the host community.

During the initial three months of service, volunteers undergo comprehensive training to prepare them for their assignment. This training includes language immersion, technical skills development, cultural understanding, health and safety protocols, and more. Volunteers also have the chance to bond with their fellow trainees and develop a supportive network.

Training varies depending on the specific country and program but typically lasts between eight and twelve weeks. This duration enables volunteers to learn the local language, understand cultural nuances, and acquire the necessary skills to excel in their roles.

Some specialized Peace Corps programs, such as the Peace Corps Global Health Service Partnership or Peace Corps TEFL, require volunteers to commit to longer periods of service. These programs often involve additional training and may extend beyond the standard 27-month assignment length.

While volunteers cannot select the exact length of their assignments, they can express preferences regarding the duration. The Peace Corps makes efforts to accommodate volunteers’ preferences when assigning them to specific programs and countries, but the final decision depends on the organization’s needs and operational requirements.

Yes, volunteers receive vacation days during their service. For each month of service, they earn 2.5 vacation days. This allows volunteers to take a break, explore neighboring countries, or return home if desired. However, vacation time must be coordinated with the Peace Corps staff and is subject to approval.

Upon completing the 27-month service, volunteers return to the United States for a period known as “transition.” During this time, the Peace Corps provides support in readjusting to life in the United States, furthering education, pursuing professional opportunities, and transitioning into the next phase of their lives.

Volunteers receive a readjustment allowance at the completion of their service term. The amount varies, but it generally helps ease the transition back to life in the United States. Additionally, volunteers are eligible for federal employment benefits, some loan forgiveness programs, and opportunities for professional development post-service.

Approximately 22% of Peace Corps volunteers choose to extend their service beyond the initial 27-month assignment. This statistic highlights the dedication and commitment of volunteers who wish to continue contributing to the communities they have served.

There is no strict age limit for Peace Corps volunteers. However, most volunteers join between the ages of 18 and 45. Each program has specific requirements, and suitability is assessed on an individual basis, considering qualifications, skills, and health.

If personal circumstances change during the assignment, the Peace Corps takes these situations into consideration. Depending on the circumstances, volunteers may request a change in assignment, early termination, or an extension, if feasible. The Peace Corps staff provides support and guidance to volunteers facing unexpected challenges.

While it is not common for volunteers to take on back-to-back assignments, it is possible to do so. The willingness and ability to deploy immediately after completing a service term depend on several factors, including the volunteer’s performance, availability of suitable openings, organizational needs, and personal preferences.

Longer-term Peace Corps assignments provide an opportunity for volunteers to develop deep connections with the host community, gain a deeper understanding of complex issues, and see the results of their efforts over an extended period. Volunteers often report personal growth, increased cultural competency, and a sense of fulfillment resulting from longer assignments.

In conclusion, Peace Corps assignments typically last 27 months, including training. However, there are also opportunities for shorter-term assignments and extensions beyond the standard duration. Volunteers receive comprehensive training during the first three months and have the chance to extend their service if desired. The Peace Corps provides support throughout the assignment and offers various benefits to volunteers during and after their service. The duration of the assignment allows volunteers to make a significant impact in the host community and experience personal growth. The Peace Corps aims to provide fulfilling and meaningful experiences for individuals committed to international service and cultural exchange.

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Wandering The World

All Things Peace Corps

23 Frequently Asked Questions about the Peace Corps (FAQ)

Even though Peace Corps is over 60 years old, these days it is not as well known to the general public. Maybe you have a family member or a family friend has served before. But many people don’t have much information about it other than its name. Below, I’ve tried to come up with most of the common Peace Corps FAQ (frequently asked questions) people have.

The answers posted here are based on information available at PeaceCorps.gov and my experience serving as a PC volunteer in three countries ( Thailand ,  Mongolia ,  and Nepal ). I will give all my references at the end of this post. But if you are interested in serving as a volunteer, don’t hesitate to contact a recruiter here !

• 1. What is the Peace Corps?
• 2. Where do Peace Corps volunteers serve?
• 3. What do Peace Corps volunteers do?
• 4. How long is Peace Corps service?

5. Do I need to speak a foreign language?

• 6. Does it cost to join Peace Corps?

7. Is there an age limit?

• 8. Do I have to be a US citizen to join Peace Corps?

9. Do I need a college degree?

10. can i serve with my unmarried partner, 11. how do i apply.

• 12. What are the Peace Corps requirements?

13. How long does the application process take?

14. can i pick a country or is it chosen for me, 15. what benefits will i get, 16. will i get paid, 17. i am a vegetarian. is that okay, 18. are there cultural barriers.

• 19. Will I be the only volunteer in my community?

20. What is housing like?

21. is it dangerous, 22. can i leave early, 23. who can i contact if i have more questions.

• Conclusion :

Peace Corps ‘frequently asked questions’

When I was growing up in the 60s and 70s, Peace Corps had a high-profile ad campaign that you saw everywhere on billboards and TV. But because they traditionally have more applicants than they can place, they don’t need to get the word out. Still, there are good candidates out there and they might consider Peace Corps if they had some basic information

1. What is Peace Corps?

The Peace Corps is a service opportunity for motivated changemakers to immerse themselves in a community abroad, working side by side with local leaders to tackle the most pressing challenges of our generation. PeaceCorps.gov/about

Peace Corps is an independent US Government agency that was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy and authorized by Congress by the Peace Corps Act.

For more information, check out my post  What is the Peace Corps?

2. Where do PCVs serve?

Peace Corps goes where it is needed and wanted. Host countries make a formal request for volunteers. And they also decide in what sectors they want the volunteers to work.

Before the pandemic, Peace Corps had placed almost 250,000 volunteers in 142 countries over its 60+ years. Post-pandemic, Peace Corps has begun again placing volunteers. But it might take a while to reach many countries that have asked for volunteers.

Volunteers serve in eight regions of the world: 1) Africa, 2) Asia, 3) the Caribbean, 4) Central America and Mexico, 5) Eastern Europe and Central Asia, 6) North Africa and the Middle East, 7) Pacific Islands, and 8) South America

Peace Corps works with host governments to make sure the volunteers are needed. Some programs might only last 5 years while others decades. Or other programs might be added while some end. So the Peace Corps map is constantly changing from year to year.

If you want to see where Peace Corps volunteers are currently serving, go to PeaceCorps.gov/countries

3. What do PCVs do?

In a nutshell, Peace Corps volunteers are ‘change agents’. As the saying goes, “Give a man a fish, he eats today. Teach him to fish and he eats for a lifetime.” And Peace Corps service tries to emphasize this. Volunteers work within communities to help them tackle important problems in Education, Health, Youth, Agriculture, Economic Development, and the Environment.

Over 40% of volunteers serve in the Education sector. This can include teaching English and other subjects like math and science. I have taught English with a host country co-teacher. My program’s goals were to improve the students’ English. But I also helped my co-teachers improve their teaching knowledge, methods, and English fluency. I have also served as an English teacher trainer giving trainings to large groups of host country educators.

To me, the priority is to help my counterparts get more skills. That will have a long-term benefit both to them and to the people they serve. At each post, I worked with two teachers and we taught classes together.

Most Peace Corps countries have a few sectors that they prioritize. For example, in Thailand, we had Education and Youth-in-Development volunteers. In Mongolia, we had Education and Health volunteers. And now in Nepal, we have Education and Agriculture.

For more general information about the different sectors volunteers work, check  What Volunteers Do

Before you apply

4. how long is pc service.

Peace Corps service is 27-months long. If you are invited to serve, you will have about 3 months of training in your host country. Then, you will be sworn in as a Peace Corps volunteer and serve for 2-years. There are many reasons a volunteer’s service might be cut short: evacuation, medical problems, safety issues, or family emergency are just a few.

For those with more education and job experience, Peace Corps Response has volunteer positions lasting 3-12 months. You can find more information at Peace Corps Response

For a lot of positions, no. If a volunteer needs to learn a foreign language to integrate into their community, then Peace Corps will provide that training. Language training during PST (Pre-Service Training) is intensive – usually 4 hours/day. And during service, Peace Corps will continue to help volunteers improve their fluency.

But, studying a second language does show Peace Corps that you have the potential to learn a new language. This could be important during the application process and determine where you might be asked to serve.

But there are some countries where there will be a language requirement. Most of these are Spanish or French-speaking countries. Volunteers for these countries will need to have some language proficiency before they serve. Peace Corps will continue to put time and effort into improving the volunteer’s fluency like other posts.

When searching for current openings, be sure to check the language requirements before you apply.

6. Does it cost to join PC?

Not directly. Anyone applying to the Peace Corps will have certain tasks that need to be done which can cost. For example, medical examinations and dental evaluations. Peace Corps may be able to reimburse the applicant for some of these costs.

And, depending on where a volunteer serves, they may have to buy clothing and other necessities before they arrive in their host country.

But unlike most overseas volunteer opportunities, the volunteer does not pay for transportation, housing, etc. Once you become a volunteer, Peace Corps provides you with the funds you need. There is no need to supplement money from home.

According to federal law, to be a Peace Corps volunteer, you must be at least 18 years of age. The average age of volunteers is about 28. Since most volunteers have just finished college, most of the volunteers I served with were in their 20s. Some countries do have a higher percentage of older volunteers, mostly in Eastern Europe and Thailand. There is no upper age limit. The oldest volunteer on record was 87-years-old who served in Morocco.

8. Do I have to be a US citizen to join PC?

According to federal law, to receive an invitation to serve in the Peace Corps, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen. I served with many volunteers born in other countries but who had become naturalized citizens. Some served as a Peace Corps volunteer in their birth country.

Remember, host countries are asking for qualified volunteers to help their country. To do that, volunteers either need a college degree or extensive job experience. All the volunteers I served in three countries had college degrees.

Couples, both married or partnered, can serve in the Peace Corps. I served with two married couples in Thailand and a partnered couple in Mongolia.

Trying to find positions for both people in the same host-country community is very complicated. Usually, they must serve in different sectors/programs. Because of this, the application process is a lot longer, sometimes double. And because both people will be serving in different sectors/programs, in some countries they may be separated during PST (Pre-Service Training).

Okay, I want to apply

It would be a good thing to start by contacting a recruiter. They can give you more information and answer any other questions you have. Plus they can be a valuable resource during the application process. Many college campuses have a Peace Corps recruiter. But if not, you can find a Peace Corps recruiter at https://www.peacecorps.gov/volunteer/connect-with-a-recruiter/

You can find out more about the process here at PeaceCorps.gov/application-process https://www.peacecorps.gov/apply/application-process/. But it includes:

• Select a position/country or to where you are needed most
• Fill out the online application and provide a health history
• Interview via videoconference
• Get an invitation to serve (and hopefully you accept)
• Medical and Legal Clearance
• Staging is when you begin your journey

12. What are the PC requirements?

Peace Corps requirements are pretty basic. You must be at least 18-years-old and a U.S. citizen. need to have a college degree and/or related job experience. Applicants must be physically and mentally able to do the work asked of them as a Peace Corps volunteer.

The time it takes to go through this process is different for every applicant. It could be as fast as several months to over a year. Generally, it seems Peace Corps tries to keep it under 6 months if possible. For married or partner couples, the process can be a lot longer, sometimes double.

You can pick the position-country you want. Or you can let Peace Corps decide where you are needed most. For my first invitation, I applied for both Education (I had experience as an EFL teacher) and Health (I was a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant). I let Peace Corps decide and I was given an invitation to serve as an English teacher in Thailand. For my 2nd and 3rd applications, I chose Mongolia and Nepal and was invited.

As a volunteer

Volunteers are given a stipend to cover their living expenses. They also receive a ‘readjustment’ allowance at the end of their service.

Peace Corps has medical staff in the host country office and all medical and dental care is covered during a volunteers service. A volunteer is covered during staging, training, and service. If a medical condition can not be treated in-country, Peace Corps will either send the volunteer to a regional medical hub or back to the US at no cost.

Peace Corps pays for your transportation to and from your country of service. Volunteers get two paid vacation days per month. If a volunteer has to go back to the US for a family emergency, there is paid leave.

Some student loans may be deferred or even canceled by the lender.

Returned Peace Corps volunteers are also eligible for noncompetitive eligibility for federal jobs.

As a volunteer, you will get money that is equal to the living wage in the area you live and work. Peace Corps calls this a “stipend” and not a salary. It has been calculated to take care of most of your needs. Volunteers have an opportunity during service with a survey to see if this needs to be increased. But also while you are serving, Peace Corps will put aside money they call your Readjustment Allowance that you will receive at the end of your service. As of 2022, this is about $10,000 (pre-tax) for 27-months of service. This allowance starts accruing from day one so even if you don’t finish the full 27-months, you will receive something to help you transition back home.

Peace Corps, “All Peace Corps volunteers will need to make adjustments to their diet.” Peace Corps wants the applicant to understand that maintaining a dietary lifestyle during their service might be challenging. The volunteer will need to be flexible.

Diet will come up during your interview. So, it is good to reflect on the challenges and how an applicant might tackle those challenges.

Before applying to a specific country, do a little research about the national diet. What do most people eat, and what don’t they eat. It will save you and your fellow volunteers a lot of aggravation. For example, when I served in Mongolia, vegetarians made up almost 20% of the volunteers. The Mongolian diet is primarily meat. Long harsh winters make it impossible to grow vegetables. So they are imported and expensive. Peace Corps staff had to try and find places where it would easier for the vegetarian volunteers to function. That meant they were given assignments other volunteers were more qualified for based only on their diet.

For a lot of my adult life, I have lived a vegetarian lifestyle. But when I lived in Mongolia, both before a during Peace Corps, I had to adjust to keep maintain my health. Although mutton was the primary meat families ate, I was able to get chicken in my community to make sure I got some protein. In Thailand, it is pretty easy to maintain a vegetarian diet although most Thais eat fish. In Nepal, families eat meat (goat or chicken) occasionally. My host brother is vegan so my host sister has no problem cooking for me.

Of course, there are. But that is one of the reasons Peace Corps volunteers go – to help bridge the gap. A lot of Peace Corps training deals with these cultural barriers and how to make the most of the situation. Learning the language is a big help too. That is why over half of the training will be learning the local language. And volunteers will teach people about America, American culture, and Americans.

Some people might be concerned that Americans might not be thought of favorably in the countries Peace Corps serves. In those communities where I am know, I have always been treated well. They understand that you are a person and not the US government. If you visit some tourist areas of your host country, people might judge negatively because they think you are a tourist. But, again, most people, just like your family and friends back home, would treat a visiter with kindness and maybe a little bit of curiosity. The same goes for your host country.

19. Will I be the only PCV in my community?

Every country is different but in general, there will only be one Peace Corps volunteer living in a community. This makes it easier to improve the volunteer’s language skills and integrate more fully into their community. And that in turn will make the volunteer more effective.

Depending on the country and sector, a volunteer may live near other volunteers. This is great both socially and professionally. Working with other volunteers can be a great opportunity to learn and to help more communities. In Thailand, I was within 1-2 hours drive from several volunteers if I took public transportation. In Mongolia, the nearest volunteers to me were 3 hours away by van. And in Nepal, several volunteers were within an hour’s drive.

It depends. All volunteers will live with a host family during PST (PreService Training). After PST, volunteers will again live with a new host family. This will help with language and community integration. But in some countries, volunteers may have the option to live in their own houses. 

Housing can be so different, even for volunteers serving in the same country. Peace Corps has requirements on what is suitable housing. If you want to see what kind of housing other volunteers have had, just search “Peace Corps Cribs” on YouTube and you’ll see a wide range.

In Thailand, I lived in a fairly big house with indoor plumbing, a western toilet, and even a washing machine. In Mongolia, I lived in a yurt with an outhouse where I would also have to walk a half-mile to get water. In Nepal, I live in a concrete room but eat all my meals in a mud-floor kitchen with my host family.

Try to connect with RPCVs (returned Peace Corps volunteers) who served in the countries you are considering. They can give you a lot more specific information on the housing in those countries.

Life can be dangerous no matter where you live. Even in America! Volunteer safety is one of the Peace Corps’ top priorities. Volunteers are given extensive training on reducing the risks involved in being a volunteer. But it takes maturity to take that training and use it once a volunteer gets to their site. 

Bad things happen can happen to anyone anywhere. But if something bad does happen, Peace Corps has the tools and knowledge to help in any way needed. I have served with volunteers who were assaulted, either sexually or physically. I knew some who have been robbed of money or possessions. It happens. But I felt for me that all the staff I worked with at Peace Corps would be there for me every step of the way if something bad did happen to me.

Life happens. Just because you commit to 27-months doesn’t always mean that a volunteer will be able to do that. The wonderful thing is that if a trainee or volunteer wants to end their service and go back home, the staff is so accommodating and helpful. The reason for this is that an unhappy volunteer is more trouble for them. I knew of volunteers who asked to go home right after they got off the plane. More than a few volunteers will quit in the first week. But there are other reasons to leave early that have nothing to do with quitting.

It is rare, but some volunteers are ‘terminated’ because of inappropriate behavior or criminal actions. Peace Corps has very strict restrictions when riding on transportation that could get a volunteer sent home. For example, riding on a motorcycle or riding a bike without a helmet could get you sent home. Some volunteers leave because of medical reasons. And a few go home because of problems back home.

I was only a year into my service in Mongolia when my brothers told me that my mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She was on hospice but my brothers asked me to come home to help care for her. I didn’t hesitate even though my mother later told me she had wished I had stayed to finish out my service. One of the last things we talked about before she died was her wish that I re-apply to Peace Corps. I received an invitation to serve in Nepal a few weeks after her funeral.

One other situation that might send a volunteer home is a death in the immediate family. Peace Corps will send you home (and back) for free for two weeks to be with your family during this trying time. In some situations, they may be extended (but no more than two additional weeks). But after that, a volunteer must either return to finish their service or ET (Early Termination).

First and foremost, contact a Peace Corps recruiter. You can find a recruiter at Connect with a PC Recruiter

Second, go thoroughly through all the information provided on the PeaceCorps.gov website.

Contact returned Peace Corps volunteers either in your community or online for the country you are interested in. The best way to do that is through the National Peace Corps Association

Search other Peace Corps-related websites on places like Facebook and Reddit .

This was a long blog post but it barely touched the surface of all you might want to know about the Peace Corps and as serving as a Peace Corps volunteer. But I hope it gave you some insight and sources for other information.

What other questions do you have? Write them in the comments here and I will try to answer them. 🙂

References:

• Peace Corps FAQ
• Connect with a PC Recruiter
• PC Volunteer openings
• Peace Corps application FAQ
• Medical information for PC applicants
• Reddit r/peacecorps FAQ
• Peace Corps – Wikipedia.org
• Peace Corps – Britannica.com
• Peace Corps FAQ – University of Vermont
• Peace Corps FAQ – Rutgers
• Peace Corps Volunteer FAQ
• FAQ – Peace Corps in Paradise
• Things to know before joining the Peace Corps

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About Jim Damico

My name is Jim. And I have served in the Peace Corps in Thailand, Mongolia, Nepal, and now Armenia. I set up this website to help others interested in PC or already serving. For more info click the "About" link at the top of the page.

10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Joining the Peace Corps

Writer, Editor, & Content Marketer

For anyone perusing the endless opportunities for volunteering abroad , committing to serving two years in the Peace Corps has probably crossed your mind. In fact, the organization -- started by President Kennedy in 1961 as an outlet for Americans to help with international development and promote cross-cultural exchange -- is now probably the best-known volunteer abroad program open to American citizens. But despite the attention from the press, TV references and endless information available about joining the Peace Corps, most of us still wish there were a few things someone had told us about our service before we decided to join.

As a current PCV about to finish up my service (or, as we say, "about to C.O.S") and reflecting on my past two years in the Peace Corps, I know this is true for me and fellow PCVs/RPCVs (returned Peace Corps volunteers). After asking around the Peace Corps network, here are 10 things we all wish we had known before getting ourselves into this crazy but wonderful adventure we call the Peace Corps.

1. Talk to a returned Peace Corps volunteer

Whether you end up meeting someone who served in the country or region you are interested in serving in or elsewhere, knowing a returned Peace Corps volunteer is a great way to learn about the everyday aspects of being a volunteer and how their expectations measured up to the actual experience. There are quite a few RPCVs who went on to publish some surprisingly candid books about their service, like Moritz Thomsen's Living Poor: A Peace Corps Chronicle or No Hurry in Africa by Theresa Munanga -- it's definitely worth checking these out!

2. You are more likely to impact your community in small ways than large

"I wish I had known I wasn't going to change the world," is a common refrain from PCVs and RPCVs alike. Two years may seem long, but in the overall scheme of development it's not enough to completely turn around a community's economic situation or eradicate a health issue. Most PCVs end up affecting their communities and host country in smaller, and often less visible ways.

"[A PCV math teacher] helped me with my math problems when I was having trouble in high school. No one else had ever done that and it really meant a lot," recalled one higher official in Ghana, "so I decided to study math in university." Stories like these are more common and PCVs who come in with realistic expectations about how they will impact their community are the most likely to enjoy and succeed in their service. All too often, overzealous PCVs become jaded when they realize they aren't going to swoop in and change the world.

3. Peace Corps provides you with the essentials

Don't even think about bringing Band-Aids. Anything that is immediately essential to your health or safety while serving, Peace Corps will provide for you. That means, if you are in a malaria zone, they'll give you a mosquito net. If water isn't drinkable at your site, you'll get a filter. If they issue you a bike, you'll also get tools and a helmet. You can get even smaller stuff from Peace Corps, like sunscreen, bug spray, bandages and tampons (in some countries). They'll also give you a 'settling-in allowance' so you can buy household items once you are in country, so even those shouldn't be a priority when you're packing. Instead, save the space in your suitcase for things you love, like your favorite sundress, t-shirt or delicious American food you know you'll miss.

4. Your fellow PCVs will become your family

"It you're lucky there may be a few people that you would have been friends with back home, but the majority you wouldn't have been friends with back home," says PCV and blogger Leah Kieff (Moldova 2013-2015). But now, despite your differences, they're your family, and PCVs are generally great at supporting each other and sticking together. The shared experience means you understand each other in ways your friends and family back home and host country nationals don't. Even just being an English speaker is enough to base a friendship off of. One of the biggest positives of joining Peace Corps over other volunteer programs is this network of PCVs and RPCVs to draw support from.

5. Every Peace Corps experience is different

Even within countries, each individual volunteer has their own, unique experience as a volunteer. Don't expect your service to be exactly like your friends or that blog you found while going through the excruciatingly long application process. Likewise, not all advice you get from other volunteers will necessarily apply to you. We all joined the Peace Corps for different reasons.

We all have different histories. We all have different lenses through which we've seen the world and through which we're seeing this experience." Says Leah, "the best advice I've heard so far is from someone who is about to COS; 'It's your experience, so find your own wisdom.'" Hear other volunteers out, but take advice with a grain of salt.

6. Every Peace Corps country program is run differently

The quality of each Peace Corps program varies between countries. If a country has had volunteers, uninterrupted, for a long period of time, then chances are they've had time to work out the kinks to successfully train volunteers or more specifically meet the needs of the host country. However, if they have just opened or reopened (because of previous political instability and evacuation, for example) you may be entering a work in progress. Information on program quality can be found by looking at survey results for each country on Peace Corps Wiki . Departure dates can be found for each country as well.

Don't expect your service to be exactly like your friends or that blog you found while going through the excruciatingly long application process. Likewise, not all advice you get from other volunteers will necessarily apply to you.

7. You will have enormous amounts of free time

Especially in the months following pre-service training (PST), you will find yourself with little to do as you learn the language, integrate into your community and figure out what projects you want to start. This is all essential to your success as a PCV, but it doesn't exactly feel like work. Even as your service progresses and you get a few projects started, you may still be surprised with the large amounts of free time you have, and the creative ways you start to fill it. Consider bringing an instrument or hobby you've always thought of trying but never had the time to do so. Chances are, you'll certainly have the time in the Peace Corps.

8. Life as a PCV is different from your life back home

There are some very talented Peace Corps bloggers out there (with surprisingly good Internet connections, it seems) humorously documenting the weird, everyday quirks of being a PCV (my favorites are How a PCV Puts it Gently , What Should PCVs Call Me and Peace Corps 101 ). There are even some Youtube videos, like Poop in a Hole , that I wish I had seen before my departure. They capture the fact that our lives as PCVs are different from what we had at home. In most Peace Corps countries, you may stand out and get an unusual amount of attention for it.

You'll suffer a lack of privacy or be faced with different work ethics. You'll have to give up some hobbies or habits and exchange them for others. You may have to poop in a hole. In short, you will have to integrate not only into a different culture, but a different lifestyle, which can be difficult but is all part of the challenge of doing Peace Corps.

9. Two years is both a long time, and a short time

I don't know a PCV or RPCV who wasn't intimidated by the commitment of spending over two whole years in a developing country. You'll undoubtedly miss some important events back home, which makes it seem like a dauntingly long amount of time. At the same time, two years may not be enough time to accomplish some of the projects that you want to do, and you'll find yourself at the end of it looking back and wondering how it all flew by. Definitely don't be put off by how long the commitment seems at first. It's really doable, and Peace Corps gives you enough vacation days to fly home for a bit if two years is too long for you to spend away from family and friends (though you are responsible for buying the ticket yourself and should save up before you leave -- an average PCV stipend is somewhere around $200-800 a month).

No matter if you have two years to commit or only two weeks, there are organizations out there that can help you contribute to a meaningful volunteer project abroad. While there are some key differences between short and long-term projects, the underlying importance is that you DO move abroad to volunteer. People need help! Organizations like African Impact or Projects Abroad can help altruistic travelers that can't commit to a two-year stint.

10. Peace Corps allows for flexibility in the projects you do

Although you are assigned to one, primary assignment, volunteers have a lot of freedom to branch out and work on other, secondary projects. Even if you are an agriculture volunteer, for example, you could still teach yoga to kids, run a weekly English club or work with women's groups to start a community loans and savings service. Your service is a great way to take the things you are passionate about and apply them to your work. As long as you do your assigned job, Peace Corps allows for (and encourages) its volunteers to branch out and take on multiple projects.

We all joined the Peace Corps for different reasons. We all have different histories. We all have different lenses through which we've seen the world and through which we're seeing this experience. It's your experience, so find your own wisdom.

Deciding to join the Peace Corps is no light decision, but it was one of the best ones I have made. It can be a tough, challenging experience that drives you crazy some days, but at the same time allows you to grow in ways you didn't think possible and make some of the best friends of your life. Although there are things we all wish we had known before applying for or departing for our service in the Peace Corps, figuring out these little things along the way was all part of the adventure and challenge of being a PCV. After all, they don't call it 'the toughest job you'll ever love' for nothing!

Disclaimer: The views and opinions reflected in this blog are mine and mine alone. They do not represent the position of the United States government or the Peace Corps.

This post originally appeared on Go Overseas

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This question is about should i join the peace corps .

How long are Peace Corps assignments?

Peace Corps assignments usually are usually two years and three months long. Typically, you'll have three months of training followed by a two-year assignment.

However, the Peace Corps also has Response Volunteers who go on specialized, short-term assignments that usually last only 3 to 12 months.

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