The Peace Corps Application Process in 2023

On March 15, 2020, the Peace Corps evacuated nearly 7,000 volunteers from 62 countries worldwide - a first for the 61-year-old agency.

It wasn't the smoothest evacuation. But looking back from 2023, it was probably the right call.

Now it seems things might be turning back on.

The Peace Corps subreddit is abuzz with anticipation as aspiring volunteers share details of their recent interview or express the joy of accepting an invitation.

It's a positive development - one that can inspire a brand new generation of would-be volunteers to wade into the invitation process and begin looking outward toward a future abroad.

This article is updated from previous years to help navigate the 2023 Peace Corps Application. If you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment.

Good luck, and thanks for stopping by.

*A quick note* - This article covers the application process in-depth. The idea is that you can return to this article throughout your experience to prepare for each step. Generally speaking, application to departure is 7-8 months.

What we’ll cover:

  • Finding a recruiter

  • Application process

  • Interview Process

  • Invitation

  • Medical & Legal Clearance

  • Onboarding

  • Departure

FINDING A RECRUITER

First things first - you might consider connecting with a Peace Corps Recruiter.

The official Peace Corps page says that applicants who work with a recruiter are 55% more likely to become volunteers. Considering that there are nearly 70 recruiters nationwide, there’s little reason to not reach out to one in your area.

There are a couple of options to help you start this process.

Option 1: Go directly to the Peace Corps Volunteer Openings page and peruse what role you are interested in taking on. 

Bonus: You can always roll the dice and apply to go anywhere. (Warning: Only for the bold)

Option 2: Connect directly with a Peace Corps recruiter. The website gives you multiple ways to locate the recruiter closest to you. Peace Corps recruiters can generally be found at your local university.

As soon as you have located your nearest Peace Corps recruiter, you can reach out via email or return to the early 2000s and give them a personal phone call, your choice.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Let's say you now have a Peace Corps recruiter. Let's also say you have your country and project in mind. Together, you and your recruiter will decide if moving into the formal application process is the right course of action.

For the sake of this article, let's assume you decided to move forward. Good for you!

Take a final moment to read through the project description, required skills, living conditions, medical considerations, and departure times before you officially begin the application.

Why do we recommend this?

Because you can only have one application open at a time. You will need to commit to the country and role you are applying to.

If you change your mind, no problem. Simply close out your application and start a new one.

Though the application itself is relatively straightforward, we're here to learn and avoid any surprises. So let's get into the weeds.

First, you'll want to create your account profile. There is no mystery to this. Simply provide your name, date of birth, phone number...etc.

Just the basics. 

Once that has been completed, you arrive at the introduction page of your application. It will show your targeted project and volunteer title and give you an estimated completion time. It usually takes around 55-60 minutes to finish.

Bonus: You can save and return at any stage. Make sure to take breaks if you start getting fidgety☕️.

Next, you will run the gauntlet of standard government questions. 

  • Are you a U.S citizen?

  • Will you be 18 by the time your flight leaves?

  • Who did you vote for in 2020? -- Ok, that one is a joke.

Next, we move onto the personal information:

  • Address

  • Phone Number

Do you remember your social security number? We hope so. 

Now onto some easy questions.

  • Have you served in the Peace Corps before?

  • Are you married, or looking to serve with a partner (this is an option)

  • Do you have any dependents?

  • Criminal record?

  • Upcoming court date?

Bonus: Don't worry too much about this stuff. The best strategy is to be honest on the application and explain any exceptions to your recruiter.

Do you take Drugs?

  • Are you a spy? -- get used to that question!

  • Are you involved in Peace Corps Prep?

Do you speak any foreign languages? What is your experience with the project you are applying for; do you have agricultural experience? Have you done any business consulting?

...Phew

We made it to the essay question. Unlike past years, you only have to write one essay for the updated Peace Corps application. 

This is good and bad. 

The essay is what the Peace Corps uses to assess your professionalism and maturity as a candidate. Essay topics vary but are usually based on your reasoning for serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer and how you plan to overcome the challenges you will likely face.

You've got 500 words at your disposal. You've got this! 

Bonus: Don't shy away from a little extra help (Dictionary) (Thesaurus) (Grammarly).

Alright!

We're almost done. 

Now, just gather three references.

Select your ethnicity and race (you can always choose that you'd rather not respond).

Date. Sign. 

Incredible job! Now it is time we move onto the interview process. 

INTERVIEW PROCESS

Once your application is approved, you will receive an email with information to schedule your Peace Corps interview. In past years, the Peace Corps would have face-to-face interviews, but considering Covid-19 and the rise of zoom, it looks like video calls are the preferred method now.

Bonus: The interview process, while stressful, should not worry you too much. We will cover some questions and provide some helpful interview tips. Don't worry, you've got this!

When the email arrives, make sure to set up your interview quickly. Peace Corps gets a lot of applicants; so if you get a spot, make sure to take it.

Bonus: Read these best practices if you are nervous about having a virtual interview.

As you prepare for your interview, it is not necessarily the best idea to write out all of the questions you think will be asked so that you have a pre-recorded response. Instead, being natural and fluid in your answers is the best strategy.

A quick disclaimer!

The interview will vary a lot based on what sector you are applying for and where you are going. That being said, the questions below will give you an excellent outline of what to expect and will help you feel prepared for the big day.

The interview is generally separated into three parts. 

Part 1:

  • Why do you want to be a Peace Corps Volunteer?

  • Why do you want to serve in the (pick your sector)?

  • Why do you want to serve in this part of the world?

  • Would you be willing to serve in other parts of the world and/or other sectors?

  • If so, which countries and/or sectors?

Part 2: 

  • Tell me about a time when you had to adapt to living or working with people from another culture. Have you stayed in touch or visited them?

  • Tell me about a time when you worked in an unstructured situation. Were you effective or successful?

  • Tell me about the most meaningful situation you have experienced helping others. What motivated you?

  • Tell me about a time when you had to fulfill an important obligation but it ended up being harder than you thought.

  • Tell me about the most challenging experience you have had working in a team.

  • Tell me about a time when you were able to transfer knowledge or skills to others. Walk me through your lesson plan. What challenges did you face?

  • Tell me about a challenge you faced with little or no support.

  • Tell me about a stressful time in your life. How did you cope?

...Phew. Let's take a moment to breathe. 

Bonus: Soft skills are difficult to gauge from a resume or essay. When answering these questions, try to draw from past experiences and explain how they educated or empowered you. Be prepared for followup questions!

Part 3: (This part is more informal and opens up with a Q&A. Make sure to have some questions.)

  • Different foods that you're used to (vegetarian, vegan, etc.)

  • Health concerns

  • Living without electricity or running water

  • Privacy concerns

  • Geographic isolation (link to life on the ground)

  • Gender roles

  • Minority challenges

  • Lack of access to one's religious services

  • Alcohol (in cultures where its either excessive or prohibited).

INVITATION

Congratulations on getting through the interview! The following steps are an invitation, medical and legal clearance, onboarding, and departure!

Let’s keep going.

The Peace Corps invitation process, while exciting, is incredibly underwhelming. 

Generally speaking, you are told that you have been invited to a specific country and sector (hopefully one of your choosing) and will be given a decent amount of literature to review. 

You will want to review the material given (sector and country information, Peace Corps facts and figures, etc.) and formally accept or decline your invitation.

Next, bookmark this page and follow it as closely as you can.

MEDICAL AND LEGAL CLEARANCE

We won't mislead you...the medical clearance process is challenging; the legal is pretty cut and dry.

You'll receive an intense checklist of medical and dental assessments that you need to complete.

The process can be sensitive and aggravating, or it can be painless and straightforward - like all medical situations, it is highly personal.

Information is your friend during this step.

The Peace Corps does a nice job laying out the facts here. Make sure to study your reimbursement options carefully so you don’t come out of pocket more than you need to.

ONBOARDING AND DEPARTURE

The big day is getting closer and closer!

You went through all of the steps. You aced your interview and passed the health requirements.

At this point, you’ll want to review the preparation and training page, post on reddit to find other volunteers in your cohort, and consider following some Peace Corps Volunteers in your future country on instagram.

Bonus: Don't be surprised if your itinerary changes once or twice before you actually depart! Remember, adaptability is key.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

You’re getting ready to do a big thing.

It's normal and expected to feel anxious, nervous, scared, excited, and dizzy. But we all go through it.

Our best advice is to connect with your cohort as soon as possible. Then, start envisioning yourself as a Peace Corps Volunteer and be proud that you've made it this far.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the Peace Corps Discounts and enjoy your time at home before you depart.

Remember to smile and have fun!

Congratulations on making it through this article and preparing yourself for the Peace Corps application process. You can find more information about How Peace Corps Volunteers handle student loans, How to receive care packages, and Peace Corps Discounts in the other articles. 

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