United Planet Long-term Quests
Volunteer Abroad Programs (6 months and 1 year)

"United Planet open new doors to my experience, turning my dreams into reality. I got to experience numerous new wonderful activites that will stay in my memory forever. It's truly a blend of culture, people, language, cuisine, lifestyle and FUN!"

- Chom Pasidparchya, United Planet Volunteer

United Planet and the ICYE Federation

For six months to one year, YOU can experience a life-changing trip to one of almost 30 countries across the globe. Partnering with the International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) Federation, United Planet creates customized volunteer abroad trips including home stays, cultural activities, language immersion, and valuable work experience.

Browse projects available by clicking the location links in the right-hand column.

Can I Apply?

The men and women who join United Planet long-term volunteer abroad Quests come from all walks of life and reflect a diverse range of personal, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. Language fluency is not required but basic knowledge of the local language is helpful.

As the ICYE United States and Canada partner, United Planet can only send citizens and residents of these countries. Residents and citizens of other countries should contact the ICYE member organization in their country.

Age Requirement: 18+ Upper age requirement varies by country. Please inquire for more details.

Dates and Fees

Long-term volunteer abroad Quests begin in January and August of each year. Specific start dates for each country may vary.  A non-refundable $350 deposit is due with your application. Click here for more information on prices and details.

Worried about fundraising? United Planet's Scholarships and Grants page offers up to date information on current scholarship and grant offerings and resources.

 Program Fees Include:

• Extensive pre-departure preparation including an in person training
• Food & lodging in your host country (host family or shared residence)
• Airport transportation
• Emergency medical insurance
• In-country orientation, language training, mid-year camp (for 1 year volunteers only), and final evaluation
• On-going support and supervision
• Monthly stipend for incidental expenses

Fees do not include:

• Visa processing charges (volunteers are responsible for aquiring any necessary visa). If you are a U.S. citizen and need assistance obtaining a passport or visa for your destination country, we recommend utilizing "G3 Visas & Passports, Inc" for professional and swift assistance.
• International airfare (volunteers are responsible for coordinating travel itineraries with expected program start dates)
• Any required vaccinations or immunizations
• Travel to the pre-departure training site

Three Easy Steps To Apply:

Step 1

Choose your top three Quest destinations, select an August or January start date, and then fill in the online application. 

Step 2

Submit your $350 deposit at the time of application. You may pay the deposit on-line with a credit card as part of your application process, call our office at 1-800-292-2316 to provide your credit card information or send a check to our Boston office.

Step 3

A Coordinator from the United Planet team will confirm your application and deposit and arrange a phone interview with you to discuss your Quest of interest and motivations.