City Year is proud to partner with the Peace Corps, so our alums can continue their dedication to service.
City Year Alums Qualify for Fast-tracked Peace Corps Service
- Continue your legacy of service and put your purpose, passion, and skills to work in partnership with host communities in more than 60 countries.
- Immerse yourself in a new culture while living and working alongside community members on locally prioritized projects or collaborate virtually by donating your time and skills to support grassroots efforts across the globe.
- Gain access to a vibrant alumni network, scholarships, and career benefits that last well beyond your service.
Read more about Peace Corps Benefits and Training
Did you know that the Peace Corps offers different service pathways? Find the Right Fit
Why City Year loves the Peace Corps
Through Peace Corps service, City Year alums can expand and continue their efforts for global impact while strengthening the future of public service.
The Peace Corps promotes world peace and friendship through technical support and intercultural exchange. Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961, more than 240,000 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 144 countries worldwide. Working at a local level to address complex and challenging development priorities, Peace Corps Volunteers partner with community members on projects in the areas of agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health, and youth in development.
Similar to City Year alums, Peace Corps Education Volunteers introduce innovative teaching methodologies; encourage critical thinking and creativity in the classroom; and integrate content like health education, environmental awareness, and teaching English into their curricula. Many Peace Corps Volunteers and Peace Corps Response Volunteers also partner with other educational professionals to develop curriculum and materials; train local teachers in K-12 schools, teacher training colleges, and universities; and support a variety of outreach projects with children and youth in communities that can benefit from additional resources.
Application benefits for City Year
City Year is a founding strategic partner of the Peace Corps’ Circle of Service, meaning City Year alums are entitled to:
- Expedited application consideration – The Peace Corps will review City Year alum applications within two weeks of receipt, and if qualified, offer an interview. The expedited consideration saves alums several weeks when applying to the Peace Corps.
- Integrated network access – Alums who participate will benefit from the integrated Circle of Service network that supports lifelong engagement in public service, offering new pathways for professional and personal growth.
To apply
Begin your Peace Corps application online. On average, filling out the application takes about an hour. Typically, the entire application process takes about nine months, but City Year alums are fast-tracked with expedited review and prioritized interviews.
Identify your City Year affiliation & fast-track your application
City Year alums should highlight their City Year experience on their résumés as part of the application materials. To expedite the application process, members and alums will need to request a service verification letter by emailing alumni@cityyear.org with “Peace Corps Circle of Service: Service Verification Letter Request” in the subject line. Within the email, applicants should include City Year service site and dates of service. That Service Verification Letter will be emailed back to you, which you should then upload where indicated in the Peace Corps application.
For more information
If you would like to speak with a Peace Corps representative about your application, please connect with a recruiter. To find online and in-person events where you can learn more about the Peace Corps and start your service journey, go to www.peacecorps.gov/connect/events/.
Please note that all admissions decisions are made by the Peace Corps. City Year alums interested in serving with the Peace Corps must complete the full application process.
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