Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Undergraduate Programs

Visit the Graduate FAQ for questions about IPSL's M.A. program in International Service-Learning and Leadership.

IPSL Programs

What is the International Partnership for Service-Learning and Leadership (IPSL)?

Founded in 1982, the International Partnership for Service-Learning and Leadership is a not-for-profit organization that administers educational undergraduate and graduate programs in 11 countries. It was the first organization in the U.S. to be devoted solely to the union of academic study and volunteer service to the community. Today it is the preeminent international organization of service-learning. About IPSL>>

How are IPSL programs unique?

IPSL programs unite academic learning with volunteer service to the community. The studies are rigorous; the service is substantive. By integrating formal study with service to the local community in an intercultural/international setting, students find their learning takes on greater depth and meaning. Working among community people brings classroom lessons to life, while the formal study broadens the students' understanding of their surroundings and gives perspective to daily impressions. Why Service-Learning?>>

Where does IPSL have programs?

IPSL offers its core undergraduate programs in Ecuador (Guayaquil, the Galapagos, and Quito), France, Australia, India, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico, Spain, and Thailand. Customized programs, specially arranged for college and university and other groups, are offered in Scotland. Find a program for you>>

How many students have participated in IPSL programs?

Nearly 4,000 students from over 400 academic institutions in the U.S. and 25 other nations have participated in IPSL programs.

What are the specifics of each program?

Programs vary; see individual program pages. The basic components of each program are:

academic courses for college/university credit
direct volunteer service to the community at an established local agency
homestay with a local family
excursions.

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Service

What type of service will I be doing? How much time will I spend volunteering?

The service work in each location varies. Some examples include serving at: schools, orphanages, healthcare institutions, recreational centers, and community development projects. You will work 10-20 hours per week. Because the service is substantive, you are often considered a member of the agency's staff. Examples are given on each program's "Volunteer Service" page.

How am I placed? Will I be in a group?

Your placement will be determined by your interests and skills (and, in some cases, language abilities), as well as by community needs. You will know and study with other service-learning students, but in your service placement you will be either the only one or with at most two other students in order to maximize your contact with and contribution to the agency.

How do I know I will be doing something useful to the community?

IPSL does not create its own service projects. Instead, IPSL students serve in established local agencies and ongoing community development projects, addressing needs identified by the local community. Year after year, agencies request IPSL students for the substantial help they give.

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Credits

Will I receive academic credit?

Yes. If you successfully complete the studies, a transcript will be issued and sent to your home college/university. Pre-approval by your home institution (registrar, student abroad office, or department head) is recommended.

Will I get credit for my service?

You will not receive credit for the service alone, but rather through the courses to which the service is connected and the learning you demonstrate.

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Eligibility

Are FOREIGN language skills required to participate?

Foreign language skills are required for the Galapagos, Guayaquil, Quito, and Mexico programs. See individual program descriptions for more information on language requirements, or look for specific language options on the SEARCH page.

Who can participate?

Most IPSL students are undergraduate college students. Some are recent high school graduates, gap-year students or college graduates; a few are graduate students and mid-career professionals. Students from any nation are welcome to apply.

What are the requirements to participate?

Sophomore standing or higher is recommended, but first-year university and high school graduates may be considered for admittance. Students must be fluent in English. If English is not your first language, you must have a TOEFL score of 550-600 (paper test) or 230 (computer test.) or a score of 6.5 on the IELTS (International English Language Test System). Applications are evaluated as they are received. We look for students who demonstrate maturity, intellectual motivation, and a desire to serve. Some programs do have specific GPA requirements; see individual program pages for details.

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Application

How do I apply?

You may apply by downloading an application or by emailing us at info@ipsl.org to request to have an application mailed to you.

When are applications due?

IPSL operates on a rolling admissions basis. Early application is encouraged and you will be notified of acceptance within approximately three weeks of our receipt of your completed application. The deadline for all summer programs is April 15th. For fall programs, the deadline is June 1st, except India and Thailand, which is May 1st. For spring programs, the deadline is November 15th for all programs except India and Thailand, which is November 1st. Late applications may be accepted if space is still available in the program.

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Financial Aid

How does financial aid work?

Federal (and other) financial aid may be applied to the program fees through your home institution if you are a U.S. citizen. Consult a financial aid advisor at your home institution. Financial Aid & Scholarships>>

Are scholarships available?

Yes, for eligible applicants. Some scholarships are available through IPSL and other organizations. Financial Aid & Scholarships>>

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