Grad school vs. Peace Corps service: Which should you do first

Choosing between pursuing an advanced degree and broadening your understanding of the world as a Peace Corps Volunteer will depend on your goals.

The two opportunities support personal and professional growth in unique ways, and there's every reason to do both!

We examine the benefits of serving before graduate school as well as earning an advanced degree before applying to serve to help you make an informed decision.

Serving before advancing your studies

You earned your bachelor's degree, and you can't bear the thought of sitting in graduate-level classes or preparing a thesis right now. Why not put your education into action as a Peace Corps Volunteer? The hands-on experience of collaborating in an intercultural setting and identifying real-world solutions will provide a strong foundation for you to succeed in any master's or PhD program.

Volunteer service can also make you a more competitive candidate, increasing your chances of being accepted. Education Volunteers in certain Peace Corps countries can additionally earn a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate that is recognized nationally and internationally.

There are other benefits to serving as a Volunteer before advancing your degree. For one, Volunteers often discover new interests during their service that may inspire what they choose to study or even their thesis project. As a Volunteer, you can also expect a decent amount of free time at site. Many Volunteers choose to make the most of that down time by preparing for graduate school entrance exams. Some are even able to score a gently used study guide or prep book left at the Peace Corps in-country office from a previous Volunteer.

After completing service, Volunteers are eligible for benefits like the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program. Learn more about the Fellowship from five Returned Volunteers and how the program does much more than just provide financial assistance.

Melissa P. said, "...the Coverdell Fellowship at the University at Albany enabled me to pursue my master's degree in public health. [It] helped me further my education and professional goals in public health."

Graduate school before overseas service

You've been accepted into a top graduate program and are eager to start. If you're not ready to apply to serve as Peace Corps Volunteer, that's ok. In fact, advancing your degree before applying offers its own benefits.

The Peace Corps application process is competitive. Having an advanced education can equip you with more skills and knowledge to confidently share with the community you serve. Graduate school can also give you more time to gain additional relevant experience, such as serving as a teaching assistant (TA), library assistant, tutor, or health clinic receptionist.

After earning your master's degree or PhD, you'll likely meet the requirements for Peace Corps Response assignments, which last 6-12 months. If you can't commit to living abroad for a two-year assignment, you may want to work towards ensuring you're eligible for the shorter Response service.

Amy G., who has a PhD in occupational therapy, partnered with NGOs across Moldova to expand options and care for individuals with disabilities. Learn more about her experience as a Response Volunteer.

Volunteers who served for 24 consecutive months will be eligible for 12 months of non-competitive eligibility (NCE), which allows you to apply for competitive federal employment positions. Returned Volunteers can "pause" receiving that benefit to attend graduate school, but if you wish to launch your career as a civil servant immediately after service, this path may be for you.

Regardless of which order you choose, the fact that you are interested in challenging yourself by earning a second degree and committing yourself to service is commendable. Both opportunities will expand your network and abilities.

If you have additional questions, check out our upcoming events or connect with a recruiter to learn more.