See Application FAQ's for more details.

Today – Apply!
Submit Application and Application Fee. You will receive an email from FSD within 48 hours confirming receipt of your application materials.

Within 15 - 30 days of the application deadline for which you applied – Acceptance
The Site Team(s) that correspond to the region you would like to go will review your application. If the Site Team determines a strong placement for you, you will be notified of your acceptance to the program within 15-30 days of the application deadline. Note that the Site Team determines your acceptance based upon how well your interests, skill sets, language level, and time commitment align with the needs of one of our partner organizations in the field.

Note: If you are applying for a Fall session, there will be a delay in your acceptance letter due to a large volume of Summer applicants. We appreciate your patience.

Within 7 days of acceptance - Confirmation
If you choose to accept, you will have seven days to confirm your participation in the program. To confirm, you will submit a signed contract, release form, and passport copies, along with a Confirmation Deposit. The Confirmation Deposit is $300. Please note that your deposit is credited toward the total amount due for your program. Upon receipt of your confirmation materials, FSD will set up a time for your telephone interview.

Within 2 weeks of Confirmation - Interview with FSD Site Team
The interview is critical to the Site Team’s ability to determine which out of the organizations they are considering for you would be the best fit for your final placement. During the interview, the Site Team will clarify your goals and needs for the program, ensure that you understand our expectations, assess your language skills, and address any questions or concerns that you have. Ultimately, your participation in the program is contingent on the interview.

Within 30 days of completing the Interview - Final Host Organization Information
Within 30 days of completing the Site Team interview, FSD will send you information about your finalized host organization placement. This will include additional details about the activities you may be involved in, as well as information about past FSD Intern and Volunteer projects with that organization.

If FSD is unable to place you with a host organization in your area of interest, we will let you know as early as possible, and you will receive a full refund of your deposit.

45 days before program start date - Balance Payment
Your final balance payment is due to FSD 45 days before your program begins. Please note that all contributions towards your program fee are tax deductible.

It is your responsibility to secure your flight, get all vaccinations, and take care of all Visa preparations. We suggest you do so at least four weeks before departure.

FSD lists reliable resources for information about Visa and vaccination requirements on each country’s page of our website. As part of the application process, FSD will also provide you with suggested flights and tips for international travel.

2 weeks before program start date – Final steps…

Proof of Insurance
FSD will send you your Proof of Insurance Card for your limited medical and evacuation insurance.

Host Family Information
Two weeks before your departure, you will receive host family information and final reminders from your FSD Site Team abroad.

Pre-Arrival Check-In – One Week Prior to Arrival
We recommend that you contact your FSD Site Team abroad to confirm flight information and to address any of your last-minute questions or concerns.