Discover the European Solidarity Corps

Have you just finished your first cycle of studies and would like to have an experience abroad? In addition to curricular and extracurricular internships, there are many other opportunities that can enrich not only your CV but also your cultural and personal growth. The European Union offers the chance to participate in the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) across the EU and even in partner countries outside the EU. All you need is a willingness to explore a new place and a computer to submit your application.

An opportunity without barriers

In today’s fast-paced world, where we are constantly facing tests, competitions, and exams, the European Solidarity Corps represents a unique opportunity. Through this program, you can gain international experience without worrying about academic degrees or skill certificates. It is open to all motivated young people, aged 18 to 30, and up to 35 for humanitarian projects.

What is the European Solidarity Corps?

The European Solidarity Corps is an initiative of the European Union, part of the Erasmus umbrella, created to give young people the opportunity to participate in volunteering, work, or internship projects that have a positive impact on society, both locally and internationally. The main goal of the program is to promote solidarity, active citizenship, and social inclusion.

You can choose to participate individually or as part of a group and decide the area of involvement. Projects range from environmental protection to promoting health and well-being, from supporting education and training to working with migrant communities, and from strengthening the resilience of vulnerable communities to contributing to humanitarian aid in third countries. The program also includes disaster preparedness and risk reduction activities in regions affected by crises.

Duration and types of volunteering opportunities

You can decide both the country you want to go to and the length of your experience. Activities last from a minimum of two weeks up to a maximum of twelve months. Generally, there are short-term volunteer opportunities, lasting from two weeks to two months, and long-term opportunities, lasting from two months to twelve months. Over the course of your life, you can participate in multiple projects, respecting the twelve-month maximum per single project. Once you have completed a long-term volunteer experience, you cannot take part in a short-term one in the same cycle, while the opposite is allowed.

How to apply

The official ESC website constantly publishes available calls for applications. You simply have to create an online profile and choose the program that interests you the most. If your profile matches the needs of the host organization, you may be contacted directly to join the project. During the entire experience, you will never be on your own. A host organization will guide your volunteer work, while an intermediary organization will support you and act as a bridge between you and the host.

Practical and financial benefits

Participating in the European Solidarity Corps also offers concrete advantages. Accommodation is provided free of charge, and you will receive a monthly allowance calculated based on the country and the cost of living, which you can manage freely to cover your daily needs. This allows you to live abroad with real financial independence while focusing on personal growth and project activities.

Why participate

This experience will allow you to learn or improve a foreign language, live in a multicultural environment, and discover new passions or develop existing ones. It is also a chance to grow personally and professionally, developing transferable skills and challenging yourself in contexts different from your daily routine.

How to get started

So, what are you waiting for? Register on the European Solidarity Corps webpage and get in touch with the SSML international office to prepare your profile and apply for the program that inspires you the most. It’s the first step toward an overseas experience that will shape your personal and professional growth.