Educational Benefits

Combine graduate school and Peace Corps service through two unique programs.

Before and During Your Service

Master’s International allows Volunteers to incorporate Peace Corps service as credit in a master’s degree program in a variety of fields at more than 80 academic institutions nationwide. Prospective students apply separately to Peace Corps and to a participating graduate school. Once accepted by both, students will study on campus, usually for one year, and then spend the next two years earning academic credit while working overseas in a related Peace Corps project. Most schools provide students in this program with opportunities for research or teaching assistantships, scholarships, or tuition waivers for the credits earned while serving in the Peace Corps.

To find a Master's International program, you can also use our searchable database.

Following Your Service

The Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program (formerly known as Fellows/USA) offers returned Volunteers financial aid, such as scholarships and stipends, and professional internships at more than 70 partner schools. Master's and doctoral degrees combined with substantive internships in underserved American communities prepare Fellows for their careers in a wide range of disciplines. Volunteers who satisfactorily complete their Peace Corps service gain lifetime eligibility for the Coverdell Fellows Program.

To find the partner school that's right for you, use our searchable database or reference our printable list of all current Coverdell Fellows Program partnerships including school addresses, degrees, benefits, internships, and contact information.

Last updated Aug 10 2012