Volunteer abroad: develop your skills with overseas volunteering

Are you looking for a way to travel the world, make a difference, and gain invaluable experience?

International volunteering could be the perfect opportunity for you. With a wide range of volunteer abroad programs available, you can find the perfect fit for your interests and skills.

What volunteer work abroad can I do?

We offer volunteer programs abroad in a variety of fields, including animal and marine conservation, childcare, building, and more. You could help endangered species, support local teaching efforts, or advocate for human rights in 25+ countries around the world.

All our international volunteering projects are safe, sustainable, and unforgettable, designed for people at any and all stages of life. Our volunteer abroad programs are guided by local experts, so you know we are always tackling real issues at the heart of their communities.

Looking for experience in a professional setting in fields like medicine, journalism, or business? Head to our intern abroad page instead!

Frequently asked questions about volunteering abroad

What are the benefits of volunteering abroad?

Volunteering abroad is an excellent way to build your skills, see the world, and contribute to positive, local initiatives.

Volunteer work abroad can:

Teach new skills: Get hands-on experience in your area of interest. Improve your confidence, communication, and adaptability while boosting your CV with new skills and experiences. Even more on that below!
Make a difference: Contribute to meaningful projects that address social, environmental, or economic challenges, led by local experts.
Expose you to new cultures: Live in a different country, discover local customs, and expand your worldview.
Build international friendships: Meet like-minded people from around the world and become part of a global community.

For younger people, volunteering abroad is a great way to stand out in competitive college or job applications. For adults, volunteer work abroad can facilitate a career change, build a sense of purpose, or tick a few more places off your bucket list.

How volunteering abroad can prepare you for the future

We regularly survey our participants and have found that:

96% feel more confident interacting with people from different cultures
94% reported that they have a better understanding of global challenges
93% think the skills and knowledge they developed will help them in future
91% are more confident in handling life’s challenges

How do I know that my volunteer abroad project is ethical?

Every overseas volunteer opportunity with Projects Abroad is fully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This means that our work is informed by strict international guidelines.

Plus, our international volunteer programmes are led by local experts in-destination. This allows us to focus our efforts to support existing initiatives that tackle the key issues within their communities.

Why do I need to pay to volunteer abroad?

Paying to volunteer abroad allows us to organize everything on your behalf, allowing you to enjoy an experience that is safe, rewarding, and impactful. You’ll get three meals a day, your accommodation, domestic transportation, and 24/7 support from our staff.

Our pricing varies between projects and will depend on how long you want to go for. If you are a teenager, the price will also include social activities and excursions.

The best bit? You can take advantage of our flexible payment plans. We understand that paying in one go isn’t always possible. That's why we just ask for an initial deposit. Then, you can pay as much or as little as you like in a series of small installments.

We’re completely flexible, but the full fee does need to be paid in full before you leave for your project.

Read what others have to say about their experiences with Projects Abroad and find out why we’re rated ’Excellent’ on Trustpilot.

Do you do summer volunteering abroad?

Many of our volunteer opportunities abroad operate year-round, but they are a great fit for anyone who wants to make the most of their summer holiday.

Our dedicated volunteer opportunities for teens, High School Specials, run exclusively in the school holidays, with the summer being the most popular time to travel. These programmes have 24/7 supervision, a fully curated itinerary, and provide an unmatched opportunity to make lifelong friends.

Christmas Volunteering Abroad

With Projects Abroad, you can volunteer overseas through Christmas and New Year.

Our projects take place throughout the year, and several have dates over Christmas and New Year. Learn more about our Christmas volunteering opportunities.

Can I arrange group trips based around an international volunteering project?

Yes. We regularly run international volunteer trips for groups of five or more, typically for educational institutions and businesses. Visit our Group Trips page for more information.

How to get started with volunteering abroad

Explore our programs: Browse this website to see the volunteer abroad options available to you. Choose the program that aligns with your interests.
Contact Us: Get in touch with a Project Expert to discuss your goals and preferences. We'll help you choose the right program and guide you through the application process.
Pre-departure support: Once you're booked, get ready to embark on a life-changing journey! We'll provide you with all the information and support you need to prepare for your international volunteering experience.

Overseas voluntary work caters to people from all walks of life with various motivations for volunteering abroad. No matter your age, level of experience, or where you’re from, you can make a difference with Projects Abroad!

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join the thousands of volunteers who have made a positive impact through Projects Abroad. Start your volunteer abroad journey today and discover the power of international volunteering.