Volunteering abroad gives you the opportunity to serve international communities in need. The majority of these programs occur over the summer and are non-credit bearing. Keep in mind that if you choose to participate in an academic study abroad, volunteering may still be an option though your program sponsor or host institution.

If you choose to participate in a program that organizes volunteer opportunities abroad, please understand that you will be doing so independent of GVSU.

See the Volunteer abroad guide for more information.

In some cases, volunteering abroad can be taken for Independent Study credit if there is a specific academic endeavor. 

If you are strictly interested in volunteer work abroad and are not concerned with credits, you may find the following websites helpful. We encourage you to research these opportunities carefully. While there are some incredible programs for experiential learning, GVSU is not affiliated with the organizations listed below, nor do we endorse or review these programs.

If you choose to participate in a program that organizes volunteer opportunities abroad, please understand that you will be doing so independent of GVSU, unless you work through the Padnos International Center by completing the required documents.

PIC strongly advises students to carefully research agencies and organizations that organize volunteer projects abroad. Additionally, we strongly advise students to adequately prepare for an overseas experience by researching the cultural norms, safety and security of a particular location, reviewing recommendations provided by the Center for Disease Control, and carefully considering all other necessary pre-departure preparations.

Evaluating Volunteer Abroad Programs

If you have questions regarding if the organization you are going through is reputable or not, International Volunteer Programs Association lists a set of standards to look for in an organization.