An official website of the United States government
Reapplying for Peace Corps service? Read this first.
Here in the placement office, another know-by date has come and gone.
Many applicants received invitations to serve and many more received the disappointing news that they were not selected for service at this time. We encourage you to reapply to one of the currently open positions listed on the website. To put your best foot forward in your next application, here’s 4 tips to consider before you push the “submit” button:
1. Dive deep into “Why the Peace Corps?”
We ask applicants to write a motivation statement and then we ask about it during the interview. We want to know that you thought about your interest in serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer. Make sure that your application materials articulate that interest.
Pro tip: Review the Core Expectations for Peace Corps Volunteers and consider how they may apply to your Peace Corps service.
2. Take advantage of web and other resources
The Peace Corps website is chock full of information. Each of the 60 host countries has its own set of webpages where you can learn more about service, living conditions, and more. Also read blogs on the website written by the Peace Corps (like this one on tips for your application). Learn more about experiences of Volunteers in the relevant country and/or sector by reading Volunteer profiles and/or by connecting with Returned Volunteers through RPCV groups.
Finally, connect with a Peace Corps recruiter. Recruiters are great at helping you target your experience and application materials to relevant openings.
3. Continue to gain relevant skills and experience
Anyone who meets the role-specific requirements (along with the basic requirements of being 18 or older and a U.S. citizen) is qualified for Peace Corps service. Continuing to gain additional skills and experience could help you be more competitive for that position.
Don’t be afraid to explore positions outside your primary experience area as well! We have all our 6 work sectors listed on the website with links to the most current open positions.
4. Update your application
Now that you’ve put all that work into updating your materials, don’t forget to change them in the application. Although you can reuse materials, double-check that your resume and motivation statement are the most recent version, including new experience and accomplishments since your previous application.
5. Consider whether you are open to multiple sectors or regions.
Did you apply to one country in the last application, but now realize you would be happy to serve where you are needed most? If so, we will review your application and match your skills and preferences to an opening. Also check out our added benefit positions. Keep in mind that you can only have one active application, so ensure you are selecting the opening for which you most want to apply.
Not being selected for service is disappointing, but we hope these tips will give you a fresh perspective on your next application.
