It's important to join the Peace Corps for the right reasons, namely, a sincere desire to make a difference for the better in the lives of those served. But it's important to know that, for all the giving Peace Corps Volunteers do, they also receive a great deal in return.
Two Years of Service...
A Lifetime of Benefits
It's important to join the Peace Corps for the right reasons, namely, a sincere desire to make a difference for the better in the lives of those served. But it's important to know that, for all the giving Peace Corps Volunteers do, they also receive a great deal in return. From practical benefits such as student loan deferment to career benefits like fluency in a foreign language to the intangible benefits that come with making a difference in people's lives, there are a variety of rewards for the dedicated service of Volunteers. Rewards that last a lifetime.
And, the benefits of Peace Corps service don't end with one's overseas service. It's an experience to draw upon for the rest of your life. As is often said, the Peace Corps isn't simply something great. It's the beginning of something great.
Career Benefits
In the global marketplace of today's business world, the overseas experience, cross-cultural knowledge, and language skills that you gain as a Volunteer are extremely valuable and highly sought by employers. From government to business to literature, returned Volunteers have used their Peace Corps experience as a foundation for successful careers in a variety of areas.
Educational Benefits
The Peace Corps is, in itself, an education, but there are many other benefits to your previous or future education. Volunteers can defer payments on many types of student loans. In some instances, academic credit is granted for Peace Corps service. More than fifty colleges and universities offer scholarships and assistantships for returned Peace Corps Volunteers. The Master's International Program allows select Volunteers an opportunity to earn a master's degree while serving overseas. The Peace Corps Fellows Program helps Volunteers continue their education and their service here at home.
Financial Benefits
While the other benefits are of lifelong value, Volunteers' financial needs are not ignored. A monthly living allowance enables Volunteers to live similarly to others in their community. Medical and dental care is provided, as is transportation to and from the country of service. Volunteers also receive 24 vacation days per year. Finally, after the completion of three months of training and two years of service, Volunteers receive $6,075 to help them readjust and begin life upon their return home.
