1. Review your welcome materials
You'll receive a welcome packet with a Program Handbook and Participant Handbook, CCS t-shirt, and more. The handbooks provide more information about the country and region you're traveling to, and useful resources on preparing for your CCS program.
2. Communicate with your Program Site Specialist
Your Program Site Specialist works closely with the Country Director, and knows first-hand what it's like to volunteer in the country to which you're traveling. Together you'll review important logistical details and expectations of the program.
3. Confirm your passport and visa
Visit the Visas and Passports pages for more information about obtaining a visa (if necessary) and renewing your passport.
4. Complete your Volunteer Profile
All participants must complete a series of important forms, all of which can be accessed online through your myCCS account. Your Volunteer Profile, in particular, is the primary tool that CCS in-country staff use to match your skills and interests with the needs of our Partner Programs. Read more about our placement process.
5. Join the CCS Community
The CCS Community is a social networking site where prospective and enrolled participants in CCS programs can interact with each other, share information, and hear from CCS alumni about their experiences in-country.
6. Purchase your plane ticket
Review our Flights page for more information on purchasing a plane ticket. Contact your Program Site Specialist for information about recommended arrival and departure days.
7. Review recommended immunizations
To find the most current travel health information, we recommend your contact your primary care physician. As a reference, you can also view our table of recommended health precautions and immunizations.
8. Pay the balance of your Program Fee
Your balance must be paid in full at least 60 days before you leave for your program (or within 10 days of enrolling if you enrolled less than 60 days from your program's start date). You can use our secure online payment form to do so. If you choose to use your deposit toward another start date or program site within 60 days of your start date, a switch fee may apply.
9. Learn about your role as an international volunteer
Your Program Site Specialist will work with you throughout the pre-departure process to prepare you for volunteering abroad.
10. Receive your placement
Read more about our placement process.
For more information, please contact your Program Site Specialist if you are an enrolled participant.
