Does my resume matter when I apply to the Peace Corps?

Placement officers review many resumes to identify competitive applicants. If you are applying for a specific position, customize your resume for it. The more relevant your education and experience, the greater the likelihood you will be offered an interview. If you are open to serving anywhere and want the placement team to identify a position for you, your resume should outline your education, interests, and strongest skills.

What is the difference between “required” and “desired” skills listed in position descriptions?

The Volunteer Openings page shows you the positions and countries currently receiving applications, and the required and desired skills for every position.

• “Required skills” lists what education and experience you must have to qualify for a position. Do not apply for positions without having the required skills.
• “Desired skills” lists additional skills and experience that make you more competitive. However, these skills are not required, and you can be invited to serve in a position without any of the desired skills.

Pro tip: Browse openings for ones where you have some of the desired skills that can make you more competitive.

What should I include in my resume?

• Include:
  • Education (with graduation or expected graduation date)
  • Relevant training/certifications
  • Work experience (including month/year dates for each position held)
  • Volunteer or other experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate meeting the required/desired skills
• Do not include:
  • Work experiences you want or plan to do in the future
  • Skills/experience you want to gain
  • Social security number and date of birth
  • Objective/summary that is not focused for the position
  • Photos, private or health matters, and/or physical characteristics

While your resume is not the sole deciding factor in your application, it is the first place we look to see whether you possess the required skills listed in the job posting. A targeted resume allows you to demonstrate that you researched the job and put time and thought into your application, and may help get you an interview.

Are you ready to write your resume? Let us help.

You can use this optional template as a guide. It contains all the information placement officers need for a thorough assessment. The template is not about style. It is about ensuring all the necessary information is on your resume so a placement officer can easily review it.

Lastly, while the resume is a required and important item in your application materials, it is not the only factor in determining whether you are offered a conditional invitation to serve in the Peace Corps.

Want to up your resume game? Attend a virtual event or connect with a recruiter to get help with your resume and application materials.