About the International Volunteer Programs
InterExchange Working Abroad cooperates with carefully vetted organizations to ensure that all volunteer placements address the current needs of local populations. While you will see a range of projects described on our website, it is important to keep in mind that your participation in a project depends on the local community's needs at any given time. For this reason, we recommend that you speak with us regarding your goals, strengths and planned travel dates before submitting your application.
Here's what our participants say about our Volunteer Abroad programs:
"Thanks to your program, I spent five wonderful months in Peru, where I learned Spanish and volunteered with underprivileged kids. Thanks to that international experience, I have furthered my career and am overseeing new operations in Latin America. I just want to say thanks to InterExchange for helping facilitate the whole experience." — Andrea, Volunteer Peru
Overview
We offer a wide-range of opportunities in every corner of the world! Applications are accepted year-round. For group programs please complete applications individually and indicate the name of your group or friends with whom you are traveling.
| Program | Min. Duration | Unique Points | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volunteer Abroad in Australia | 2 weeks | More rugged experience. | $795 and up |
| Volunteer Abroad in Costa Rica | 1 week | City or beach locations. | $695 and up |
| Volunteer Abroad in Ecuador | 1 week | Wildlife and social projects. | $645 and up |
| Volunteer Abroad in Guatemala | 1 week | Cool international vibe in La Antigua. | $595 and up |
| Volunteer Abroad in New Zealand | 2 weeks | More rugged experience. | $795 and up |
| Volunteer Abroad in Peru | 1 week | Ideal starting point for Machu Picchu. | $595 and up |
Program fees enable InterExchange and its international cooperators to provide assistance for volunteers and communities abroad, and also cover things like orientation meetings, accommodation, meals, marketing and site visits so we can continue to offer quality programs and get the word out. They also help fund the InterExchange Foundation. For further details on each program and what's included in your program fee please visit the individual country pages linked above.
Language Classes
You will notice that many volunteer abroad programs include or offer optional language classes. Language lessons are advised, and in some cases required, particularly when you will be working with more socially-oriented projects. They also provide a great space to meet other volunteers and make travel plans!
- Study Spanish in Spain, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala or Peru
- Study French in France
- Study Mandarin Chinese in China
- Study German in Germany
- Study Italian in Italy
Responsible Volunteering
We believe that international volunteers have the most positive impact in their programs when they approach their service with a willingness to learn. "Diving in" to the experience is commendable, but you must consider the goals behind the initiatives you hope to support and consider whether you possess the experience necessary to make a positive contribution.
Please feel free to ask us about any of the projects we describe here, and ask about others we might not currently highlight. We're happy to follow up with additional information so that you can make the most informed decision regarding your international volunteer experience.
Deadlines
Applications are accepted year-round. Please apply at least six weeks prior to your desired volunteer abroad program start date. If you would like to start your volunteer program in less than six weeks, please contact us to discuss possibilities.
James Bridge James is an education abroad professional whose career was launched at 12,000 feet, outside the Indian Himalayan village of Phey, Ladakh. He manages the InterExchange Working Abroad department and lives in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
