WorldTeach as a Peace Corps alternative
WorldTeach: an Alternative to Peace Corps
Many applicants consider WorldTeach as a Peace Corps alternative, and the two experiences share many points in common. Some reasons why WorldTeach may be a better fir for some include: the need to serve within a set time frame, the desire to serve in a specific country, a commitment to teaching, lack of US citizenship, or a preference to serve with a non-governmental organization. Below is an at-a-glance comparison of WorldTeach and the Peace Corps to help you understand the similarities and differences between these two exciting volunteer opportunities.
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WorldTeach |
Peace Corps |
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ELIGIBILITY |
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| Year-long and semester programs: must hold a bachelor's and have native-level fluency in English. WorldTeach accepts applicants of all nationalities Summer programs: must be at least 18 years of age and not required to hold a bachelor's |
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to apply. All Peace Corps applicants must be US citizens |
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APPLICATION PROCESS |
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| Applicants select a specific program and country to apply to. All volunteers apply to one country program with a fixed departure and return date | Though applicants can request a specific region, you are not guaranteed to be placed in the country or area you choose |
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APPLICATION TIMING |
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| Rolling; admissions decisions made within one month of completion of application | Rolling, and averages 9-12 months until a decision is made and departure date and country of service is determined |
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COUPLES |
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| Married and unmarried couples can be placed in the same site whenever possible, and depending on the program, can share the same accommodation | Only married couples will be considered for placement together |
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LENGTH OF SERVICE |
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| Most programs are approximately 11 months, including 1 month of in-country training and one academic year of teaching. Two-month summer programs and 6-month semester programs also available. | 27 months, with an average of 3 months of in-country training and 24 months of service. |
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NATURE OF SERVICE |
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| All assignments center around teaching, though volunteers also participate in other community projects | Assignments vary according to your country of service and your background and skills |
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COSTS AND SERVICES |
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| Funding varies depending on your program of choice. As an independent NGO with no significant outside funding, WorldTeach relies on host countries and organizations along with volunteers' contributions (often through fundraising) to cover their expenses. | Peace Corps service is fully covered through government funding. Volunteers are not expected to contribute to their expenses. |
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ORGANIZATION |
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| An independent non-profit organization that partners with governments and other organizations in developing countries to provide volunteer teachers to meet local needs and promote responsible global citizenship. | An agency of the US Federal government devoted to world peace and friendship. |