WorldTeach programs are open to native speakers of English; volunteers DO NOT have to be US citizens. Non-US citizens are encouraged to apply, though visa requirements should be kept under consideration. All year-long programs require a bachelor's degree. All programs are open to individuals who are at least 18 years of age and under the age of 75 by the time of departure (except for China where volunteers must be under 65).

No prior teaching or foreign language experience is required. WorldTeach provides teaching and language training during the in-country Orientation period prior to the beginning of school.

Although we do not have specific professional requirements, we seek applicants who show a commitment to teaching, international development, public service and cultural understanding. The most successful volunteers possess a high level of enthusiasm, flexibility, commitment and dedication to the communities in which they are placed.

Volunteers accepted for semester and year-long programs are required to complete 25 hours of ESL teaching experience (paid or volunteer) prior to their departure.

Additional requirements for the China Year program: Our partners in China require that volunteers participating in the China year program be under the age of 65 and free of sexually transmitted infections.

Additional requirements for the Chile programs: To secure a visa, volunteers participating in the Chile programs must be free of communicable diseases. Please read about the special application requirements for the Chile Ministry Year and Chile Ministry Semester programs.

Please note that due to the long waiting period for the issuance of new passports, prospective volunteers should at the time of application have passports that will be valid for at least one year beyond the duration of the program on which they hope to serve.