Explore Programs
AMIGOS offers these programs:
- Summer Program experiences in Latin America for ages 13–19
- Gap Program for high school graduates ages 17–22
All AMIGOS volunteers must meet the general health criteria for participation. Visit this page to see the requirements for each program and explore your options.
Talk to a Program Counselor
A consultation is optional but recommended. Schedule a call with our team here or RSVP for an info session here! We’ll help you figure out what project is best for you and your family and answer any specific questions you have.
Choose a Chapter
Your Training and Fundraising Path
Your AMIGOS journey begins with our expert training program that prepares you for life in Latin America, cultural adjustment, communicating across cultures, and developing your leadership skills. It is a fun time to make new friends and explore interesting questions before traveling abroad.
- Summer Program
- Local Chapter – Find one near you and train throughout the spring.
- National Chapter – Open to anyone, whether or not you live near a local chapter.
- Gap Program
- National Chapter – Train with fellow volunteers upon arrival in-country
Find out more about local chapters here. Learn more about the difference between local chapters and the National Chapter here.
Apply
Your online application will take approximately 30–40 minutes and includes questions to get to know you better, as well as your choice of project location and country.
We won’t ask you for your GPA!
We want to learn more about your motivations, why you are interested in AMIGOS, and what you are hoping to gain from your experience. The essay questions are:
Gap Program
- Tell us why you would like to become an AMIGOS Gap Program volunteer.
- Explain what you think your biggest challenge will be on this program.
- While adjusting to the new culture and living environment, some AMIGOS volunteers experience homesickness and other types of transitory discomfort. These can manifest as feelings of anxiety, loneliness, frustration, irritability, fearfulness, sadness, or depression. Knowing yourself as you do, what emotions do you anticipate you will be most likely to experience? Which of these do you expect will be the most difficult for you to manage?
- During the Gap Program, you will be co-living and sharing a space with approximately 10–12 other people. When feeling stressed at home, what tools or strategies do you use most effectively to regain perspective and improve your mood and functioning?
Summer Programs
- Why are you applying to AMIGOS? What do you hope to gain from this experience?
- What previous experiences (work, volunteer, extracurricular) have prepared you for this program?
- Tell us about your personal and family background. How has this played into your decision to apply to AMIGOS?
The $75 application fee is required for your application to be considered fully submitted and ready for next steps!
Start your application now!
Interview or Consultation
If you are applying to your local chapter, you may be contacted to set up an interview. This is an opportunity for the chapter to answer any questions you have, explain the chapter training expectations, and learn more about you.
If you are applying to the National Chapter, you are not required to complete an interview, however we strongly advise you schedule a call with an advisor or attend an information session before or after submitting your application.
Acceptance and Paperwork
You’ll be notified shortly after an admissions decision has been made. After this, you’ll receive a welcome packet with more information. It’s time to start getting excited!
During this time, you will:
Get ready for your AMIGOS experience! Don’t forget to check in with your chapter or Admissions Advisor if you have any last-minute questions. You’ll receive more details and packing lists to ensure you’re ready for your AMIGOS adventure!
Welcome to the AMIGOS family!
