VSO Professional Volunteering — Volunteering

VSO places experienced professionals in volunteer roles supporting partner-led work across Africa and Asia. Roles contribute expertise in education, health and resilient livelihoods, including agriculture, climate, inclusion and community development.

Applicants choose a current vacancy and work with local partners and blended teams of international, national and community volunteers. Most placements last 9–24 months, while less common roles last 3–8 months.

Benefits & funding

All volunteers receive a local-currency allowance intended to cover reasonable living expenses and at least three weeks of annual leave.
When a placement requires relocation, VSO provides basic accommodation.
For volunteers joining from overseas, support includes induction, role-related travel, medical and personal-liability insurance, required immunisations and anti-malarials, a criminal background check, and the work visa or permit.
Volunteers may need to pay for medical and dental examinations, personal-effects insurance, pension or national-insurance contributions, and professional memberships or registrations.

Eligibility

At least three years of experience in the relevant professional field.
A relevant degree or equivalent qualification.
Ability to pass VSO’s core-competencies assessment and mandatory background checks.
Commitment to the full duration of the selected project and, when relocating, willingness to live on a basic allowance and adapt to local living conditions.
There is no general age limit, although local labour law may affect eligibility for a specific role.
Successful applicants must complete medical clearance; individual vacancies may also set role- and location-specific requirements.

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Experience required
≥ 3 yrs

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Application process

1
Browse VSO’s current opportunities and select a suitable volunteer role.
2
Complete the online registration in English with personal and recent-employment details, then upload a CV in Word or PDF format.
3
Use the confirmation email to complete the VSO Values self-assessment and decide whether to continue.
4
Submit the full application and complete the two online assessments on information processing and work approach.
5
If selected, complete references and background checks, medical clearance, and pre-departure training before the placement begins.

Program timeline

Ongoing
Review current vacancies and apply before the closing date shown for the selected role.
After registration
Complete the VSO Values self-assessment and full application.
After submission
Complete two online assessments; VSO aims to respond to applications within 10 working days.
After selection
Complete checks, medical clearance and training.
About 3–12 months after applying
Departure may take place, depending on the role, visa process and personal circumstances.