Frequently Asked Questions
Why Volunteering in Spain?
Volunteering in Spain will enable you to get a first-hand insight into the Spanish culture. You will have the opportunity of practicing the Spanish, getting to know local people and cooperating with a social or a health care project.
What will my volunteering experience be like?
While volunteering you will be immersed in a working group and you will participate of a relevant project in the organization. You will get a deep insight into the local work mechanisms, objectives and cause. You will be given responsibilities and tasks, where you will be able to develop your working skills.
How long does it take to find a volunteering position?
The waiting period to find a volunteer placement generally is 8 to 12 weeks. In the meantime, we will keep you informed about your program status, and we will discuss volunteering placement options before we confirm your choice. We will be available to answer any question that you may have.
Is my volunteering placement guaranteed once I present my application form?
Your volunteering placement is guaranteed once you receive the Volunteering Confirmation Form. If we find your Résumé too specific or a prerequisite unable to be fulfilled, yielding it unable to get you the position you’re looking for, we’ll let you know and will also present you with some possibilities that we consider appropriate.
What are the benefits of volunteering?
The benefits of a volunteering abroad experience are boundless. On a personal level, you will gain self-confidence; you will get more mature and tolerant. You will get a better understanding of the world around you. The comment we hear most frequently from our participants is that they’ve acquired a different perspective of who they are, how people see them, and how they perceive the world.
How do I find accommodation?
COINED Spain can assist you with finding accommodation for your study abroad program through its specialized accommodation search service you only need to specify the needs and requirements of a place you would prefer. We guarantee you will have support and help from the moment of moving in to your lodging.
What is the best time for volunteering?
Many students embark on a volunteering abroad experience during their university holidays, but it ultimately depends upon your situation to judge when the best time for a study abroad program is. Positions are available all year long. Still, you should bear in mind that August in Spain is a holiday month and there is little activity.
Can I do a volunteer work if I do not speak Spanish?
To begin your volunteering abroad program you must have at least an intermediate level of Spanish. This is a very crucial barrier some students face. Not knowing the language will limit your activities within the host organization. This is why it is important for all volunteers to posses at least an intermediate level of Spanish. Keep in mind that the more Spanish you know the more responsibilities you’ll receive and in turn, the more you’ll learn.
Can I do a volunteer work while I take a Spanish course?
One of the requirements to start a volunteering is having an intermediate level of Spanish. If this level is not reached before the volunteering start date, the beginning of your activity will be postponed. If your level of Spanish is intermediate or higher, you will be able to take a Spanish course while volunteering.
Will a volunteer work improve my job opportunities?
Nothing is more advantageous than having a Résumé that shows international work experience. Students who have done a volunteering abroad program have a clear working advantage. Having international experience shows your potential employers that you have the ability to interact with people from other cultures, and that you are independent and flexible. Also, having done an international education program represents and advantage when applying for a post graduate studies scholarship.
How much is a volunteer work program in Spain?
The registration fee for the volunteering program is €120, and as soon as your placement if confirmed, you will have to submit the volunteering payment of €180. Also you will have to consider two important expenses: lodging and daily pocket money.
How do I present my application form?
Presenting COINED with your volunteering application form is very easy: Fill out an application form on-line to contact us for the first time, and we’ll send you the Application Package and help you with any questions you may have (Refer to Application Process).
08015 - Barcelona - Spain
Tel: +34 93 4254901 | Fax: +34 93 4234156 | Email: spain@intercoined.org