Connect with a Peace Corps Recruiter to learn more about the work of a Peace Corps Volunteer and the application process.
Free International Travel for Those Who Wish to Make a Difference!
At the University of Minnesota, we're proud of the role we've played in the Peace Corps. Since 1961, over 1,502 University of Minnesota graduates have continued this tradition by putting their education and experience to work as Peace Corps volunteers.
Today, the University of Minnesota ranks third among top colleges and universities in producing Peace Corps Volunteers. The U currently has 70 alumni serving abroad. Although the world has changed quite a bit since the Peace Corps was established, the need for Peace Corps Volunteers is bigger than ever.
Description
Peace Corps Volunteers serve in more than 60 countries in Africa, Asia, South America, Europe, and the Middle East. By providing technical assistance to countries that request it, the Peace Corps shares the United States' most precious resources—its people and their skills.
Serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer is an experience like no other. Volunteers learn a new language, exchange ideas, and take part in their communities as partners and friends.
Requirements
To be eligible for service, you must be at least 18 years of age and a US citizen. There may be a place for you if you have:
- A college degree or 3–5 years work experience
- A commitment to public service
- An expressed interest in a program area
Benefits
In addition to helping others, Peace Corps service also comes with tangible benefits for volunteers such as:
- Career Builder: provides training in a foreign language, technical skills, and cross-cultural understanding
- Student Loans: some are eligible for deferment and some partial cancellation
- Transition Funds: receive more than $10,000 after you complete 27 months of service
- Free Travel: expenses for travel to and from your country of service are paid for
- Living Allowance: a monthly stipend to cover living and housing expenses
- Graduate School Opportunities: financial assistance post service.
- Vacation: earn 2 vacation days per month of service or 48 days total
- Medical and Dental Insurance: receive complete medical and dental care while serving
- Network: worldwide network of returned Peace Corps Volunteers, for both social and career connections
- No Fee: unlike other international volunteer programs, there is no fee to participate in the Peace Corps
Main Program Areas
- Education and English Teaching
- Youth & Community Development
- Health & HIV/AIDS
- Community Economic Development
- Environment
- Agriculture and Forestry
Volunteer placements are based on where participants' skills and experience are needed.
Peace Corps Student Group
If you are a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer or someone thinking about Peace Corps, join the U of MN Peace Corps Student Group to get connected to other RPCVs and people thinking about Peace Corps. Email [email protected].
Visit the Peace Corps website for more information about local events.
Events
Join one of the online events listed here and look for other upcoming Peace Corps events.
Resources
Visit the Peace Corps FAQ page or learn more from volunteer stories:
This resource page provides links to UofM campus resources forcommunity service/volunteering organizations, writing help for your Peace Corps application essays, and more.