How does the Peace Corps application process work

Whether you are applying for a specific Volunteer opening or to serve where you're needed the most, the application process can be broken down into a few key steps:

1. Complete your application

Before submitting your application, we recommend you connect with a recruiter for advice on navigating the application process. Also review our "Before you apply" checklist. In addition to the basic application, you will be asked to complete your Health History Form. Your answers to these questions are necessary to determine which countries Peace Corps will be able to provide you with necessary medical support. In your application, you will also be prompted to note any geographical or sector preferences you might have. Being open to Volunteer positions in more regions and sectors allows placement staff to find programs where your application will be most competitive, but you should also be honest with yourself about where you are willing to serve and what sectors you are willing to volunteer in.

2. Initial assessment

Once your application has been fully completed, a placement officer will review it for basic information like availability date, medical needs, education and language levels (if your program has a language requirement). If you have applied to go where you are needed most, a placement officer will identify a specific assignment that matches your skills and interests. We will also review your application for an alternate assignment if you have applied to a program where your medical needs cannot be met or if you are not a competitive candidate for this assignment.

3. Under consideration

Once your basic information has been assessed and your application is in a program that you qualify for, you will be placed under consideration and will receive a confirmation email. Placement officers will dive deeper into your assessment to determine your competitiveness within the pool. You might be asked to submit transcripts or complete a skills addendum to clarify your experience/skills. Do not be alarmed if we do not request these documents - each program has different requirements. At this stage, it's a good time to conduct research on the country and program to prepare for the next step.

4. The interview and beyond

Moving forward, the process is similar to most job applications. Candidates will be contacted based on their competitiveness for interviews by the placement team. After the interview, we will review your references and make a decision. All applicants to the Peace Corps will hear back once final decisions have been made. Applicants who are conditionally invited to serve will then proceed to the legal and medical clearance process. If your application is unsuccessful, we encourage you to continue gaining applicable experience and reapply to serve.

Think that you have what it takes to join the Peace Corps? Reach out to your recruiter today to start the process.