Frequently Asked Questions
A: The
Peace Corps will take your geographical preferences under consideration, but cannot guarantee placement in your country or region of choice.
A: PC takes applications on a rolling basis; there is no application deadline.
A: The entire application process-from completion of the application to departure for service-takes an average of nine months. PC encourages applicants to apply 9-12 months before they would like to begin their service. After submitting the completed application, applicants can expect to hear from a Peace Corps recruiter within two to three weeks.
A: The Peace Corps provides Volunteers with a living allowance that enables them to live in a manner similar to the local people in their community. The Peace Corps also provides complete medical and dental care and covers the cost of transportation to and from the country of service. After returning from service, Peace Corps Volunteers receive just over $6,000, which is meant to help the Returned Peace Corps Volunteer readjust to the US.
A: Volunteers may defer repayment on student loans under several federal programs, i.e., Stafford (formerly known as guaranteed student loans), Perkins, direct, and consolidation loans. Volunteers with Perkins loans are eligible for a 15 percent cancellation of their outstanding balance for each year of Peace Corps service. Because the rules that authorize deferment are complicated and subject to change, it is best to talk to your lender directly about how this benefit applies to your situation.
A: The Peace Corps doesn't offer any money towards Graduate School, but does work with two unique programs -- Masters International and Fellows/USA -- that are affiliated with Graduate Schools across the country.