14 Best Volunteer Abroad Programs for College Students

If you are going to volunteer abroad, you want to make sure that you are doing so with an awesome program. A professional, organized, transparent, and popular program can help ensure your time abroad is rewarding and impactful. But beware: There are also programs out there that are less professional, unorganized, and ethically questionable, and those programs can wreak havoc on any chance of you having the experience you want. 

Volunteering makes you and the world more beautiful inside and out.

You’re a student—you’re busy, you have exams, you have new Youtube channels to watch. You have friends to hang with and pizza to nosh. But you also recognize your privilege and want to give back in a meaningful, adventurous way, and that’s where college volunteer abroad comes in.

To get your program search started on the right foot, we’re here to share a list of the top-ranked year-round and summer volunteer abroad programs for college students. If you find one of our suggested programs a perfect fit, awesome! If not, you can use our program criteria as helpful tool in your search for the perfect program. 

Below is everything you need to know on the best volunteer abroad programs for college students.

What makes a program one of the “best”

There are thousands of of ways to purse college volunteer abroad out there and you could slice and dice them a million different ways to come up with a list of the “best” best volunteer abroad programs for college students. At GoAbroad, we have a ton of experience with these types of volunteer trips abroad for college students and we have found that certain aspects of a programs can end up having a big impact on how enjoyable your experience will be. We like to use the following criteria to determine if a volunteer abroad program really belongs in the “best” category: 

• Transparency: Easy access to program details and information is the sign of a confident, structured, organized program.
• Good track record: Make sure to check a program’s track record for both giving you an awesome experience and preserving local environments and cultures.  
• What do people say about it?: If enough people have had so-so (or worse!) things to say about a program, we suggest skipping over it. There are a ton to choose from after all! 
• Relevant for your future: Try and pick a program that is going to give you an experience you can leverage as an important career experience. 
• Organizational partnerships—Who does the program associate with? This can tell you a lot about the program itself.
• Support and assistance. Are they going to be there for you when you need them?

In the end, volunteering abroad for college students isn’t much different than for other times of life; what, and how much is learned, however, can provide great clarity towards your next steps and future career path.

14 top programs this year

You are now equipped to pick an awesome program to volunteer abroad for college students that both fits your needs and that you can also have confidence in. To get you started on your program hunt, we have rounded up what we feel are 14 of the best volunteer abroad programs for college students from around the world that will allow you to make a positive impact while also enjoying your time traveling worry free! 

1. Thailand - Gibbon Primate Sanctuary with GoEco

“I went on a four month trip from October to February travelling in 5 countries but the place I miss the most is Highland Farm and Gibbon sanctuary! You get a really close relationship with both the gibbons and the owner Pharanee. She welcomes all and makes you feel like home. There is a house just for all the volunteers and a lot of time to be social as well. I had one introduction week before the volunteering program where I met some amazing people. Anyway I wish I could have stayed at the farm longer. I hope someday to come back. Go if you love animals and want to make a difference.” — Thailand Gibbon Primate Sanctuary alum

• Where? Thailand - Gibbon Primate Sanctuary
• When? 1-8 weeks
• Why? Spend one to eight weeks working at Thailand’s Gibbon Primate Sanctuary. There, you will support efforts to help injured and abused gibbons while working in a beautiful wildlife sanctuary. Volunteers will feed the animals, take care of their living quarters, bath and socialize with the monkeys. Located north of Bangkok, volunteers will enjoy enjoy cultural influences from China and Burma as well as the local Thai.   
• More Info: Read GoEco reviews

[See more Thailand Volunteer Programs]

Volunteers are a lot like these lanterns—bright and bring us hope.

2. Australia - Great Barrier Reef Conservation with GoEco

"The most valuable part of this trip was learning the facts of the reef, clearing up all misconceptions! But waking up on a boat to see the sunrise before going on a dive where you hear the city of the reef start to wake was surreal and absolutely magical." — Great Barrier Reef Conservation alum

• Where? Australia - Great Barrier Reef
• When? 1-2 weeks
• Why? From PADI Open Water or Advanced certification to surveying seabeds, this Great Barrier Reef Conservation program won’t let you come all the way down under and leave without making a significant impact. Working hard to protect the beautiful natural environment found in Australia, volunteers will do meaningful work for our global climate through data collection and recording damage to the reef. 
• More Info: Read GoEco reviews

[See more Australian Volunteer Programs]

3. Dolphin Research & Marine Conservation in Zanzibar with African Impact

"The work I was able to do on this project is so important and I was able to learn so much more about research and conservation. The team I worked with was far better than what I expected, and the community we created as a team was phenomenal. Knowing that the research we are doing is so important and that we are the only ones doing it made the experience that much better, highly recommend for people who want to make a difference while meeting fantastic people and having a good time." —African Impact alum

• Where? Zanzibar 
• When? 1-12 weeks
• Why? Zanzibar's economy is partially driven by ecotourism, with thousands of tourists visiting every year to have experiences swimming with dolphins. However, there are not yet guidelines in place to limit the effects of tourism on the dolphin populations, leading to numerous unethical encounters. During this program, you'll be able to assist with dolphin conservation through data collection, workshop facilitation, and ethics training.
• More Info: Read African Impact reviews

[See more Tanzania Volunteer Programs]

4. Volunteer Teaching in Cape Town, South Africa with GVI

“I spent two weeks volunteering with GVI on the Child Care project. I had such a wonderful time, getting to know the children, staff and other volunteers. Two weeks was just not enough time - I was not ready to leave at the end and could have stayed for months more. I thoroughly enjoyed teaching the children, especially the songs and dances (which I have taken back to use in my own classroom!). I would recommend this project to anyone who is interested in making a difference through education.” —GVI Alum

• Where? Cape Town, South Africa
• When? 1-12 weeks
• Why? Help children develop their English literacy outside the Cape Town City while also experience coastal South African life with GVI’s volunteer English teaching program. Work directly with children to help develop their English conversation and literacy skills through one-on-one and small group English tutoring. Outside of tutoring volunteers will have a chance to visit Robben Island, Table Mountain, and enjoy wine tasting Stellenbosch. 
• More Info: Read GVI reviews

[See more South Africa Volunteer Programs]

5. Live With and Teach English to a Family in France with ALIORE Worldwide Workshops

“My experience with Aliore was great! The family placement met my expectations, were relatable and kind. Communication and information from ALIORE was very efficient. It was definitely an economic way of travelling while getting the best of a country. The flexibility offered by the program ensures that you do your role and get a cultural exchange at same time. Based on my experience of 4 weeks, I sure would recommend Aliore.” —Aliore alum

• Where? Montpellier, France
• When? 2-9 weeks
• Why? Learn all about French culture and French language through ALIORE’s French volunteer program. Volunteers live full time with a local French family and receive free room in board in exchange for providing the family English lessons for at least 15 hours per week. This is an authentic French experience that will both boost your resume and help you develop cross-cultural friendships. 
• More Info: Read ALIORE reviews

[See more French Volunteer Programs]

Experience life differently as a college student volunteering abroad.

6. Volunteer in Guatemala with International Volunteers HQ

“I was fortunate to have been able to volunteer with IVHQ twice - once in Costa Rica with a sea turtle conservation program and another in Guatemala with their medical campaigns. Those three weeks were some of the best of my life. The volunteer placements are incredible, and I met so many inspirational people, both from the local communities we worked with as well as fellow volunteers. My experience was honestly only positive - I was a little doubtful for both how much me being there was actually going to help. In both cases, it was clear volunteers played an integral role in the success of their programs, but I also realized that I gained so much more from than the experience than I could ever hope to accomplish in a week or two.”—International Volunteer HQ Guatemala alum

• Where? Guatemala: Antigua
• When? 1-week to 12-months
• Why? International Volunteer HQ is a world-renowned volunteer program provider that now operates through a partnership in Antigua, Guatemala. Options for volunteers range from teaching English to providing childcare in an orphanage, animal care and rights, as well as construction and renovation projects. Whether you pop down for a two week stint or stay the year, you are guaranteed to feel you made an important impact. 
• More Info: Read IVHQ reviews

[See more Guatemalan Volunteer Programs]

7. Affordable Projects in Japan with Volunteers for Peace

“I had always been interested on volunteering abroad, and I have always loved Japan. As soon as I turned 18, I started researching projects and most of them way out of my budget. I found VFP and wasn't sure whether it was reliable or not, since it was so cheap, but I really wanted to try it out so I did (I took a teaching project)... and I was not disappointed in the least, the project was perhaps the best experience I have ever lived: the living conditions were great, the project was awesome, and people were REALLY nice and thankful.”—Volunteers for Peace alum

• Where? Japan
• When? 1-week to 12-months
• Why? International Volunteer Services offers a ton of amazing volunteer opportunities in Japan. From agriculture to English teaching to community development to childcare, IVS offers something for everyone. This is an opportunity to learn from a local family all about their language, culture, and heritage as you help give back through your work in one of the many offered programs. 
• More Info: Read Volunteers for Peace reviews

[See more Japan Volunteer Programs]

8. Volunteer in Mexico with Adelante Abroad

“This program was perfect for me, and it was a great way to get to know a new city. It made the transition to living in another place as easy as it really could be — finding me housing, an internship, and contacts within the city that could answer any questions or help show me around. The internship was a fantastic fit, which really showed how much Adelante listened to what I wanted from the experience, as well as they attention they payed to what skills I already had. I learned a lot, met many new people, and got to know the amazing city. I even decided to move back to Oaxaca for the rest of the year to work at the art studio where I was previously interning!”—Adelante Abroad alum

• Where? Oaxaca, Mexico
• When? 5-8 Weeks, 3-6 Months, Summer
• Why? Make a positive impact down in Oaxaca, Mexico with Adelante. Offering both ecology and social work internships, Adelante presents the opportunity to learn about Mexican culture while volunteering in their own personalized programs that can be made to fit their academic or professional needs.
• More Info: Read Adelante Abroad reviews

[See more Mexican Volunteer Programs]

9. International Internships & Volunteer Programs in London

“I made the right choice of choosing the Intern Group to start my global experience. My London internship is great and flexible. Ariana Christoffers is the community coordinator here in London. She gave me an amazing first tour of Canada Water. She is an amazing coordinator and helps you have a comfortable and pleasant experience.” —The Intern Group alum

• Where? London, England
• When? 5-8 Weeks, 3-6 Months, 7-12 Months, 9-12 Weeks, Multiple Years
• Why? Boost your resume with an awesome internship at an NGO in London, England. The Intern group offers quality internships at NGOs allowing participants to build their professional experience while also making a positive impact. And with a close knit group of expats, there are also plenty of opportunities to socialize and network. 
• More Info: Read The Intern Group reviews

[See more UK Volunteer Programs]

The best volunteer abroad programs for college students come with life-long friendships.

10. International Volunteer Experience in Porto and/or Lisbon with ImpacTrip

“This was an amazing experience! Re-Food is helping feed the poor with the help of local stores and restaurants, it truly is an amazing program with an amazing team to help support you! The Food, Culture and ambiance of the city is truly amazing. The people are kind and the cost is inexpensive compared to the rest of Europe. I never felt unsafe anywhere I went and well walking around Lisbon you are bound to lose weight because of the hills!” —ImpacTrip alum

• Where? Porto or Lisbon, Portugal
• When? 1-2 Weeks, 2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 7-12 Months, 9-12 Weeks
• Why? Discover beautiful Porto and Lisbon Portugal while also making a positive impact with ImpacTrip. Volunteers can select programs that include Child Education, Hunger and Food Waste, Disabled People, Skills Development, Animal Care and Protection, Fighting Poverty, and Homeless Integration based on their strengths and personal preference. This is the opportunity to make a true impact on the local community while exploring one of Europe’s hottest cities.  
• More Info: Read ImpacTrip reviews

[See more Portuguese Volunteer Programs]

11. Volunteer & Surf in Panama with Give and Surf

“I volunteered with Give & Surf this summer and it was one of the best experience thus far for me. This was the first time I have traveled abroad by myself and I felt very comfortable and safe my entire time. Working with the kids was extremely rewarding and heart-warming. This was such a growing experience and I am forever grateful for the individuals I was able to work with. The staff was very accommodating and wanted the volunteers to have the best time possible. I highly recommend this organization — the work they do is amazing! I am hoping to join Give & Surf again in the near future!” —Give and Surf alum

• Where? Bocas Del Toro, Panama
• When? 1-2 Weeks, 2-4 Weeks, 3-6 Months, 7-12 Months, 9-12 Weeks, Alternative Spring Break, Summer, 5-8 Weeks
• Why? What could make for a better college student summer volunteer abroad than learning to surf while making a positive impact on local community and becoming immersed in Ngobe culture? Spend part of your time taking part in education and sustainable construction efforts and, once the volunteer work is done, head out to the waves and surf the crystal blue Panama waters. This a total mind, body and soul experience.  
• More Info: Read Give and Surf reviews

[See more Panama Volunteer Programs]

12. Road Trip India with GoEco

“Road Trip India is a lovely, very well organized program. It enables us (the participants) to get a glimpse of India’s diversity and rich culture and tradition As well as exposed us to Indian life. Program was executed with full professionalism by the coordinators.” —GoEco alum

• Where? India
• When? 2-4 Weeks
• Why? Buckle up for the journey of a lifetime! Travel across for Indian states while volunteering your time in programs such as the Slums Outreach Program, animal welfare and school renovation efforts. For those looking to blend eco-friendly travel while also making an impact on local children and communities, Go Eco’s Road Trip India is a perfect opportunity. 
• More Info: Read GoEco reviews

[See more India Volunteer Programs]

Yeah, okay, we know you’re stoked but you should calm down just a touch.

13. Animal Rescue Project in Ecuador with ELI Abroad

“I volunteered in the teaching hospital and was fortunate enough to get to scrub in on teaching surgeries in addition to seeing client owned patients every day. This experience was everything I wanted it to be- I got the veterinary experience I wanted and got to live in a nearby homestay that was walking distance to the clinic. The ELI staff were amazing in every way - supportive, and willing to get creative to design a program that fit exactly what I was looking for. I highly recommend them to everyone I know who is looking to volunteer abroad.” —Eli Abroad Alumni

• Where? Rural Ecuador
• When? 2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 9-12 Weeks, 3-6 Months
• Why? Eli Abroad offers volunteers an opportunity to work with over 300 animals at an animal sanctuary 30 miles south of Guayaquil, Ecuador. The rescue also hosts a breeding program for endangered species including American Crocodile, brown-headed spider monkey, and the Guayaquil Macaw. Volunteers will have a chance to work directly with the animals, assisting with the daily tasks that keep the sanctuary running. 
• More Info: Read ELI Abroad reviews

[See more Ecuador Volunteer Programs]

14. Marine Conservation + PADI Certification with Kaya

“This trip was unbelievable! It was a fantastic way to see A fantastic culture. We just blended in with the locals and our guide was just amazing. If we didn't waste fuel then we would have the opportunity to see Whale Sharks. Which we did. That was an unbelievable experience. Every day of the trip felt like a completely different trip and every day was better than the previous (except for when we were leaving). We learned a whole lot about the local culture and more than I ever expected about Marine conservation of the Reef.” —Kaya Alumni

• Where? Belize
• When? 5-8 Weeks, 2-4 Weeks
• Why? This is a super rad way to check off your ideal college student summer volunteer abroad experience! Contribute to a Marine Conservation project in Central America and get scuba diving certified along the way. You’ll contribute to a project on small private island off the coast of Punta Gorda, where volunteers have been working with the local fisheries department for many years. Research relevant issues that affect the health of the second largest coral reef in the world!
• More Info: Read Kaya Responsible Travel reviews

[See more Belize Volunteer Programs]

Finals are over—it’s time to party (& help others)

At GoAbroad we are all about meaningful travel and we hope that the above programs help you kickstart your program search. Don’t forget, GoAbroad has hundreds of programs all over the world to choose from, so make sure to check out our entire directory of volunteer trips abroad for college students to find the perfect one. Every year we help hundreds of people find their match, and are 100% certain the perfect program is waiting for you on GoAbroad. Best of luck and safe travels!

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