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Connect with the Peace Corps
If you're ready for something bigger, we have a place where you belong.
Apply to the Peace Corps
The application process begins by selecting a service model and finding an open position.
Let us help you find the right position.
If you are flexible in where you serve for the two-year Peace Corps Volunteer program, our experts can match you with a position and country based on your experience and preferences.
Serve where you’re needed mostEnglish Teacher for Diplomats
Education
Job highlights
- Gain experience working with diplomats from another country.
- Become a valued part of your host family and the community.
- Experience the beautiful Beninese culture firsthand.
Applications are now closed. View current openings.
Apply by
February 15, 2026Know by
April 1, 2026Depart on
August 31, 2026Duration
4 monthsAbout the project
Interested in working with diplomats overseas? Benin has a short-term opportunity for you!
As a former French colony, French remains Benin’s official language, but English is gaining prominence as a second language thanks to English being taught in schools and in English language institutes. English education plays a crucial role in shaping Benin’s socio-economic development, as English is an essential global language used in business, diplomacy, and academia. Benin’s Minister identified English language learning a priority for the entire ministry staff.
As an English Teacher for Diplomats, you will facilitate English classes for ministry staff to strengthen their communication skills through practical and interactive sessions. Through daily conversations and personalized support, you will support the team to become more confident communicating in English.
Learn more about what Volunteers do in country by visiting our Benin project page.
Required skills
Qualified candidates will have the following criteria:
Competitive candidates will have one or more of the following criteria:
• Bachelor of Arts or Master of Arts in Education, preferably with a focus in curriculum/instruction
OR
• Bachelor of Arts degree plus 3 or more years of relevant experience, including teaching and curriculum development, and teaching certification/license OR Master of Arts degree plus 2 or more years of relevant experience
OR
• Specialized experience in one of the following areas: early childhood literacy, adult English education, vocational English education, or special education
Language: French
Required behavioral competencies
These competencies are essential for all service assignments and are assessed in the application and interview process:
Motivation for and commitment to service
Adaptability and open-mindedness
Problem solving and resourcefulness
Behavioral maturity and professionalism
Photos from Benin
How you and the community will make an impact together:
Assess the proficiency levels of the workforce.
Create an intensive curriculum that accommodates various proficiency levels and learning styles.
Design engaging lessons for professional communications.
Facilitate group discussions for international and diplomatic environments.
Provide feedback and personalized support for continued development.
You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as a book or movie club.
A studio or one-bedroom apartment in the city will be provided. Housing will be no more than 5 miles from the office.
Learn more about the living conditions, including detailed information on culture, communications, housing, and health/crime statistics on our Benin country page. You can also delve into stories about local communities by reading our blog or Volunteer stories.
Meet a Volunteer in Benin
Julianna P.
TEFL Volunteer
"When I return to the U.S., I believe I will be more comfortable working with people who have different backgrounds than my own. I’ve also become a more resilient and community-minded individual."
See full Volunteer profile
After a 3-week orientation on topics such as health and safety, you will move to a city where you will collaborate with the staff at African Guarantee and Economic Cooperation Fund. You will work with the partner and your community to assess the local needs and develop a work plan in line with their established goals.
Peace Corps/Benin will equip you with French language resources and you may work with a local tutor who can help you build basic language skills to connect with the community.
Only heterosexual couples can be accepted for this program. Each person must apply separately and qualify for a position in a different sector than their partner. Couples will live together during training but may separate occasionally for field-based activities. Cohabitating couples are highly encouraged to present themselves as married throughout service due to cultural expectations. Couples that serve in this country must be legally married to avoid conflicts that are not aligned with cultural and religious beliefs.
To learn more about serving as a couple in Benin, visit the country page.
Application process
From application to departure takes around nine months. Learn about the application process for Volunteer opportunities.
Medical/legal clearance
You will need to be cleared medically and legally in order to serve in Benin. Review information on medical clearance and legal clearance to learn about the process.
