Apply to Serve
Eligibility
To be eligible for AmeriCorps, individuals must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be either a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident.
- Demonstrate a commitment to community service.
- Possess skills and experiences relevant to their chosen AmeriCorps position.
- Background checks are required for all AmeriCorps members to ensure safety and suitability for service.
Application
- Submit resume and cover letter on Handshake
- Enrolled in the Albion College AmeriCorps Application and Orientation course on course webs
- Complete an online application
- Undergo a background check
- Participate in an interview process to ensure a well-rounded selection of dedicated participants.
FAQs
I am an international or DACA student. Can I join AmeriCorps?
- Only U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are eligible to serve in AmeriCorps positions that are federally funded. This means that international and DACA students are not eligible for AmeriCorps positions, unfortunately. If you are interested in serving in a different capacity, consider joining Community Corps.
I’ve never done volunteer work before. Am I still able to join AmeriCorps?
- Yes! No previous experience is required, just a willingness to learn and a commitment to making a difference in the community. AmeriCorps is a great place to build new skills, explore your interests, and gain experience, especially if you’re just getting started with service.
What are the term types?
We offer three AmeriCorps term options to fit different levels of commitment and schedules:
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- 100-hour terms (AT): A one-semester commitment, ideal for students who are just getting started or looking for a shorter service experience. Expect to serve about 8–10 hours per week.
- 300-hour terms (MT): Our most common option and the minimum required to be a full AmeriCorps member. These terms last two semesters (usually the academic year), with about 12–15 hours per week.
- 450-hour terms (QT): Designed for summer service or special placements, these are more intensive and typically completed in a shorter time frame. Expect to serve around 30–40 hours per week during the summer.
What types of service opportunities are available through AmeriCorps?
We offer a wide range of service opportunities connected to community organizations and campus partners. Areas include:
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- Youth development and education
- Community health and wellness
- Food security and sustainability
- Program coordination and communications
What is the application timeline for AmeriCorps?
- Applications for the academic year typically open in late spring or early summer, with rolling deadlines until positions are filled. Most members start service at the beginning of the fall semester.
- Applications for spring semester positions start in November, with rolling admission until the start of the spring semester.
- Applications for summer positions start in February, with rolling deadlines through April until all positions are filled.
- We recommend applying early to increase your chances of getting your top-choice placement.
What happens after I submit my AmeriCorps application?
Submitting your resume is the first step! Here’s what happens next:
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- We’ll review your materials and send you an email with access to the full application process.
- You’ll schedule a 15-minute exploratory chat with the program director to talk about your interests and potential placements.
- You’ll submit additional documentation and complete your application on the official AmeriCorps portal.
- After that, you’ll schedule a formal interview with the director.
- If selected, you’ll be matched with a host site based on your preferences and availability.
- Finally, you’ll complete onboarding, background checks, and student employment registration before beginning service.
- We’re here to walk with you through every step!
Are AmeriCorps positions paid?
- AmeriCorps positions are not traditional jobs, but members do receive a living stipend for their service. This is paid in regular installments throughout the service term.
- In addition, members who successfully complete their term receive a Segal Education Award, which can be used to pay for future tuition or repay student loans.
Do I need a certain major to apply?
No! We welcome students from all majors. In fact, many placements benefit from a wide range of academic backgrounds and perspectives. Whether you’re studying psychology, environmental science, education, communications, or anything else, there’s likely a placement that connects to your interests.
AmeriCorps members gain hands-on experience, build career-ready skills, make meaningful community connections, and have access to professional development opportunities. Plus, the Education Award can help with school costs after you serve.
Can I be involved in other activities while serving in AmeriCorps?
- Yes! Many of our members are full-time students who also participate in athletics, student organizations, or off-campus part-time work. We’ll work with you to create a schedule that supports your success in both your service and other commitments.
- However, because AmeriCorps is a stipended position, you cannot hold another on-campus student job while serving. This is due to federal guidelines that limit students to one form of paid campus employment at a time. If you have questions about how this might affect your situation, let us know. We’re happy to talk it through.
What happens if I don’t complete my hours?
If you don’t complete your hours, you won’t be eligible for the full Education Award or stipend and you may not be able to serve with us again in the future. We offer regular check-ins and support to help you stay on track throughout the year. If you anticipate needing accommodations or adjustments, we’ll work with you.
Can AmeriCorps service count toward other requirements on campus, like practicum hours or community service for institutes or centers?
In many cases, yes! AmeriCorps service often fulfills requirements for:
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- Institute or Center community engagement hours (like those for the Ford Institute or Gerstacker Institute)
- Practicum, internship, or fieldwork hours (with faculty or advisor approval)
- Course-based experiential learning components
- If you’re hoping to count your AmeriCorps service toward a specific requirement, talk to your program advisor or faculty member and we’re happy to help you coordinate it.
- Yes! AmeriCorps is a hands-on, high-impact learning experience that connects classroom knowledge with real-world action. Through your service, you’ll develop professional skills, build community relationships, and reflect deeply on your role as a changemaker.
- It’s one of the most powerful ways to engage in experiential learning for all and we’re committed to making it meaningful, inclusive, and accessible for every student.