The EIL Explore Culture and Global Citizenship Award gives adults an opportunity to experience another country through cultural immersion and community-based learning. Develop confidence, intercultural understanding and a deeper awareness of global issues through time spent with local people.
Learn through culture and community
Depending on the programme, you may explore local traditions and social issues, develop language skills, join community projects or take part in environmental activities. Each placement encourages respectful engagement, reflection and learning from different perspectives.
Potential cultural programmes
Possible options include Brazil Summer Exchange and Ghana Cultural Adventure, each two weeks; Lemnos in Greece, two weeks; intensive Hindi and cultural learning in India, six weeks; and language, culture and leadership in Mexico, four weeks.
Potential community service programmes
Eight-week placements may be available in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Ghana, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Africa and Thailand. Egypt options include Educate to Empower and a Sustainable Development Farm.
These are potential options, not guaranteed placements. Final programmes depend on suitability, individual requirements, availability and confirmation.
Who can apply
The source describes this award as open to eligible adults aged 18 and over, with no previous international experience required. Applicants should be curious about other cultures and willing to engage respectfully with communities.
Applications are particularly encouraged from underrepresented backgrounds and people who have faced financial, social or other barriers to international opportunities.
Programme details
Duration: Approximately two to eight weeks, depending on the programme.
Travel: Summer in the year of travel, subject to the programme schedule.
Destination: One of the potential programme destinations, subject to confirmation.
Accommodation: Varies by programme; confirm the arrangements for your placement.
What the scholarship covers
- Eight-week volunteer programme
- Return flights and insurance
- Accommodation and meals during the volunteer placement
- Pre-departure information and support
- In-country airport transfers, orientation and local coordination and support
Check the current award information for any exclusions or personal expenses before accepting a place.
Preparation and support
Review the placement requirements and discuss preparation with EIL. Use the confirmed programme information to understand the support available before and during travel.
Bring your learning home
On your return, you are required to complete an Action at Home Project. Reflect on your experience and share what you have learned with your community. Your project can build on your interests and the people or activities that shaped your learning.
How to apply
Explain your interest in cultural learning and how you would share the experience with your community.
Volunteering abroad can challenge you in many ways – Read more about what challenging can mean
