Service Learning Trips
Are you considering a service learning trip as a way to develop personally and professionally? Perhaps you want to explore your field of study while giving back to communities through volunteering? International Volunteer HQ offers fully hosted service learning projects abroad for college students, high school students and individuals at any stage of life.
With Program Fees starting at just $20 per day including accommodation, this is the most affordable way to embark on a journey of self-discovery, learn about new cultures, and make a positive impact. You can also earn academic credit for a low cost while volunteering abroad, saving you thousands of dollars in tuition fees.
Every year, more than 15,000 people complete their service learning abroad with IVHQ — and you’re invited to join the crew!
Why take a service learning trip with IVHQ
I felt very suited to the work I was doing, and left feeling very fulfilled. I felt that the locals who I was working with were appreciative of my time and effort. I could see how my physical presence and assistance was helping the community. I have learned so much about the world, people, different cultures and lifestyles and my horizons have definitely expanded. I returned home with a newly found sense of confidence in myself and a stronger sense of direction for my life. My trip with IVHQ transformed me and absolutely changed me for the better, I feel like I’ve become the person I want to be.
Volunteer stories
Rachael
Medical program in Peru - Cusco
“I decided to volunteer abroad based on my interest in international public health, as well as the opportunity to support developing communities while experiencing the culture. I plan on pursuing medicine with a focus on international health, so this program was the perfect way to volunteer while gaining shadow experience within a field that I am passionate about.”
Read about Rachael's experienceNicole
Medical program in Guatemala
“I took interest in volunteer work and community service last semester when I was studying global health. I’m also a nurse and enjoy meeting patients and knowing that I have done some good in this world, so it seemed like the right time to volunteer abroad. If helping others is your passion, just do it! Stop thinking about it and apply for a project!”
Read about Nicole's experience
How to take a service learning trip with IVHQ
Whether you’re wanting to volunteer as a student somewhere close to home, or looking for a service learning opportunity further afield, IVHQ has volunteer programs in 40+ countries to suit all travel types. Our diverse range of long and short term service learning projects abroad are available year round and include childcare, wildlife conservation, environmental, medical, teaching and much more.
Taking a service learning program abroad can be done in 5 easy steps:
- Apply for your chosen destination and project
- Confirm your place by paying the Registration Fee
- Prepare for your trip with the guidance of your IVHQ Program Manager
- Depart for your destination
- Our local team will collect you from the airport and support you every step of the way!
Already know where you want to travel to?
APPLYBest programs for a service learning trip
Explore the top-rated programs for an impactful service learning trip.
Volunteer in Bali
Volunteer in Costa Rica
Volunteer in Fiji
Volunteer in Guatemala
Volunteer in Nepal
Volunteer in Tanzania
Volunteer in Trinidad and Tobago
Volunteer in Vietnam
Volunteer in Zambia
FAQs
Service learning is an educational approach for students, where learning and personal development occurs through participation in volunteer initiatives that give back to local communities.
A typical service learning project will require students to define goals, research and plan their community service volunteering. After completing the project, students will usually present their findings back to the school and reflect on their learnings.
Why is service learning important? Because it engages students in real life experiential learning beyond the classroom, teaching them the importance of compassion, kindness and advocacy. These experiences also help uplift local communities, economies and natural environments around the world.
Many students choose to undertake their community service learning program through IVHQ, as our volunteer abroad programs empower them to make a tangible impact while also exploring an exciting part of the world. As an IVHQ volunteer focused on service learning, you’ll build new friendships, discover new cultures and broaden your horizons - all while giving back to those who need it most.
IVHQ offers a range of service learning programs for high school students and teens aged 16 and 17, so you don’t need to wait until you’re 18 to go abroad and make a difference! We offer safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for teens and high school students in 17 destinations around the globe.
Since 2007, we have supported thousands of young people to volunteer around the world on our youth service learning trips abroad. More than 20% of our volunteers are under 20, so we know a thing or two about providing life-changing, reliable travel experiences for young explorers.
Top service learning ideas for high school students:
Learn more about how to join an international service learning trip if you’re under 18 here.
Today’s student demographic is more progressive than ever before. That’s why student service learning has become a popular alternative to studying abroad. Instead of doing a study exchange, many are opting for a more meaningful form of international travel - one that is regenerative and makes a positive impact on local communities.
IVHQ offers service learning for college students abroad in more than 40 countries around the world, starting from as little as $20 per day. You can also earn academic credits from our international service learning programs!
Top service learning programs for college students:
IVHQ offers short-term service learning trips in over 40 countries. You can volunteer abroad for as little as 1 week in the majority of our destinations, and choose from flexible start dates available year-round. This means you can get away and experience a new culture without needing to take ample time away from your day-to-day priorities.
Our short-term service learning programs overseas are designed for those who want to maximize impact in a short period of time and are perfect for students who are looking to take an alternative break. With everything organized for you, including airport pickup, accommodation and 24/7 in-country support, you can hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination.
Summer is one of the most popular times of year to go on an international service learning trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture and interact with locals while soaking up the sunshine. With time off from college and school, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the world and make a difference alongside like-minded people.
Whether you’re an animal lover or an aspiring medic, check out these top summer mission trips for 2024 & 2025. For more information on IVHQ’s top summer volunteer abroad projects, click here.
Top summer service learning trip destinations:
With over 17 years of experience in facilitating international service learning volunteer programs, IVHQ is proud to be the organization of choice for students looking to combine community service work with an international learning experience.
We believe that service learning should contribute positively towards society. Environmental and social impact has always been at the heart of what we do, which is why IVHQ is the first and only global volunteer travel provider to declare a climate emergency and become a certified B Corporation.
If you’re looking for service learning opportunities, you likely have a social or environmental cause in mind, or you might like to contribute to a project that aligns with your studies. IVHQ offers a variety of service projects, including Teaching, Childcare, Community Development, Environmental Conservation, Construction and Renovation, Turtle & Marine Conservation, and Wildlife & Animal Care. You can even earn academic credits from our international service learning programs.
You can choose to take a long-term or short-term community service learning trip with IVHQ for periods ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks. With fully hosted experiences abroad starting from $20 per day and available year round, you will not find a more affordable and trustworthy international service learning provider.
