What level of language do I need?

Preparing your travel abroad always brings up the question about the possible language barrier. We thought about that! :)

Linda Anderson avatar
Written by Linda Anderson
Updated over a week ago

Is English the only language required to volunteer abroad? How important it is to speak it fluently? Or can one use volunteering abroad as an opportunity to improve its knowledge in languages? So many questions that we are eager to reply to.

On the one hand, English is the most used language in international volunteer organizations. Thus, English is indeed essential to be able to engage and communicate with the organization and the other volunteers, who often come from all over the world.

On the other hand, it is not necessary to have a very high level of English. Depending on the program and the assignment, a beginner's level of language skills may be appropriate. In other words, if you are able to communicate with basic vocabulary in simple everyday situations, you have a wide range of programs to choose from.

To find out more about the level required, consult the "Requirements" section on the description page of the program of your choice.

But, most importantly, these stays are also great opportunities to practice and improve your language skills. On-site, you will be immersed in the language, which will improve your fluency, and you will enrich your vocabulary through contact with other volunteers from around the world. In addition, you can choose from our English-speaking destinations (USA 🇺🇸, Canada 🇨🇦, UK 🇬🇧, Ireland 🇮🇪, Australia 🇦🇺 and New Zealand 🇳🇿). So beginners don't be afraid to sign up, you won't be beginners anymore when you return! 💪 This way you can do two things at once: improve your English and contribute to a cause you care about. 🌟

Also for Spanish speakers, we offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities in Latin America and Spain. Spanish is sometimes sufficient. In addition, many organizations offer the possibility of taking Spanish courses on-site. We even offer a small amount of French-speaking programs.

If you prefer to brush up on your Spanish before you leave, we also have a solution for you! :) We have a partnership with Best Language Study, which offer online language courses. The languages offered are English 🇬🇧, Spanish 🇪🇸 and Swahili 🇹🇿 🇰🇪.

All in all, no language barrier will stop you from volunteering! :)

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