Volunteer Abroad Planning Guides

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Plan your volunteer abroad experience with confidence. Use these guides to compare volunteering abroad vs internships, choose the right program, understand costs, find scholarships, review safety, and see what other families and students say.

What you’ll learn (at a glance)

Volunteering vs Internship: Compare goals, supervision, outcomes, and when each path fits best.
Choosing a Program: Match destination, dates, service focus, and support level to your goals.
Ethical Volunteering: Work with vetted partners and contribute to community-led priorities.
Program Costs: Understand fees, what’s included, and how to budget.
Scholarships: Learn funding options, deadlines, and application tips.
FAQs: Quick answers to the most common planning questions.
Benefits: Skills, confidence, cultural literacy, and college or career readiness.
Reviews: Real stories from students, parents, and educators.
Safety: Risk management, 24/7 support, and transparent protocols.

Ready to explore programs? Browse our student travel programs by destination, dates, and focus area. Learn how our volunteer abroad programs make a difference worldwide.

What People Ask Most About Planning Volunteer Abroad Programs:

Where should I start?

Begin with your goals and constraints. Read “Choosing a Program” to narrow options, then check “Program Costs” and “Scholarships” to plan your budget.

Is volunteering or an internship better?

It depends on your goal. Volunteering focuses on service and community impact. Internships emphasize role-specific experience. See our comparison guide.

How much does it cost?

Costs vary by destination and length. Program pages show inclusions like housing, meals, staff support, and activities. Airfare and personal expenses are separate.