Volunteer Programs for International Students in Palestine: Volunteering in Palestine offers international students a unique and deeply educational experience. It allows them to contribute meaningfully to local communities while gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s history, culture, and challenges.
From teaching English and supporting youth programs to engaging in human rights advocacy and women’s empowerment initiatives, there are numerous ways to make an impact and learn about this incredible part of the world at the same time.
Volunteering abroad allows students to develop valuable skills, enhance their academic and professional profiles, and experience cultural immersion in a way that goes beyond traditional study abroad programs.
Choosing the right program is key to ensuring a responsible and rewarding experience. This guide provides essential information on various volunteering opportunities, practical considerations, and ethical approaches to making a difference in Palestine.
Table of Contents
Types of Volunteer Programs for International Students in Palestine
Because of the high level of need in Palestine, there are many different options for volunteering to suit a variety of skills and interests.
Some of the more popular programs include things like:
Teaching English & Language Exchange
The student becomes the teacher! Teaching English is an incredibly valuable way to help the Palestinian community. As the global language, learning English helps increase future opportunities for young Palestinians. It also helps them to better tell their stories to the world. According to our students at Salam Palestine, practicing English with native speakers is one of the most valuable ways they were able to improve their skills.
Human Rights & Advocacy
Learn about the human rights situation in Palestine from local NGOs and activists who are working every day to fight injustice. This program gives you the opportunity to see past the headlines and gain a deeper understanding of the human rights abuses happening in the West Bank, and arm yourself with the knowledge and stories to advocate for Palestine.
Youth & Kids Programs
With a large population of children and young people, there are plenty of opportunities to help support a brighter future for the youth. Some programs include volunteering at orphanages in Hebron, at one of the refugee camps like Al Fawwar, or in a local Palestinian village.
Writing & Journalism
In this program, volunteers will meet with local citizen journalists and news organizations to learn more about the state of reporting and media in Palestine. Volunteers are encouraged to write articles on their own experiences living in the West Bank.
Refugee Support
There are hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees who were forced from their homes during the Nakba (catastrophe) of 1948, and who either fled to neighbouring countries like Jordan or to parts of what is now known as the West Bank. These camps face difficulties such as poor access to services, cramped living space, and restrictions on movement in and out of the camps. Supporting educational and community development initiatives in camps like Al Fawwar near Hebron is an area of high need.
Choosing the Right Program
Research Programs & Organizations
Because there are many volunteer organisations, selecting the right one is an important decision. It can be difficult to tell the reality of an experience from what you see online. So, how do you pick a good organisation?
The first tip is to choose a locally run organisation. This ensures that your work is needed by and integrated with the people you’re planning to support. While done with the best of intentions, some overseas internship organisations can actually have a negative impact on the local community. Check online or by communicating with the organization directly to see whether the programs are locally run.
It’s also good to check whether your chosen organisation has an online presence elsewhere, where you can verify the experiences of other volunteers. Salam Palestine is registered with Go Overseas, a well-known organisation that helps people from around the world to find meaningful and fulfilling volunteer positions. We currently have a 4.85 (out of 5) rating from 852 reviews and have received over 20 community awards from 2019 onwards, including for 2024.
Application Process
Check the application requirements for your chosen program. Some may require a CV, a motivation letter, or even an interview. It’s best to check the guidelines and be prepared to participate in the process. You should also check for eligibility in terms of an age requirement or any pre-existing language skills.
It’s really simple and easy to apply to volunteer with Salam Palestine. Simply check our programs for the one you are most interested in, and email Info@ecpalestine.org with the dates you would like to attend. You will be forwarded a short application form to fill out and return before you are accepted into the program.
Financial Considerations
Something to consider when planning to volunteer in Palestine, especially for students, is covering costs. One of these costs will be the fees for your volunteer program. Make sure to check what your organization of choice covers within their program fees. At Salam Palestine, your fees cover accommodation, three hours of Arabic lessons per week, breakfast five days a week, and all of your program activities. You can find the price list for our programs here.
Outside of the program fee, other potential costs include mobile data for your roaming, e-sim, or local sim card, eating dinner at restaurants along Ein Sara street with other volunteers, or travelling to other cities in the West Bank like Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Jericho or Ramallah. What you spend during your time here really depends on your lifestyle and how many souvenirs you can fit into your suitcase!
Bank account looking a little on the empty side? Fundraising is one way to help cover the costs of your chosen program. Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe offer a platform for your friends and family to get involved in supporting your volunteer experience. Sharing your motivations for coming to Palestine, along with a link for people to donate, is an easy way to get support.
The best way to look for additional funding is to see whether your educational institution offers any scholarships or other funding support for volunteering initiatives. You might even try to write your own proposal about the value of volunteering to your educational advancement and submit it yourself!
Which Programs Are Available for International Students in Palestine?
1. Volunteer in a Sports Project in Palestine
While we operate our Volunteer In A Sports Project In Palestine Program in Hebron year-round, we also have a dedicated summer program specifically designed for students seeking volunteer and internship opportunities during their summer break. Salam Palestine can also grant academic credit to currently enrolled university and college students, thanks to our collaboration with the Palestinian Ministry of Education.
2. Volunteer in the Environment and Conservation Program in Palestine
Volunteer in the Environment and Conservation Program in Palestine: Join us and volunteer in our environmental program, aimed at teaching Palestinian youth, refugees, and children about the importance of preserving the environment. In the West Bank, there is a pressing need for such programs, as many Hebron residents are unaware of the harmful effects of environmental neglect on their own lands.
3. Volunteer in Palestinian Communities
Volunteer in Palestinian Communities: This program invites individuals of all ages to engage with Palestinian communities in the West Bank, including Dura, Masafer Yatta, Susya, and Al-Fawwar refugee camps. Volunteers will work with children, youth, women, and refugees to enhance skills through educational and recreational activities.
4. Volunteer With Palestinian Orphanages
Volunteer With Palestinian Orphanages: Hebron City, in the Occupied West Bank, is home to several orphanages that provide essential care and support to thousands of Palestinian children who have lost one or both of their parents. The high number of orphans in the region is largely due to ongoing conflict, military occupation, economic hardship, and limited access to healthcare.
5. Community Development Volunteer Program in Palestine
The Community Development Program through Salam Palestine offers a unique opportunity to engage with the Palestinian community by working with local organizations. This program is ideal for those who wish to support Palestinian children, women, youth, and refugees in camps, as well as other community members in and around Hebron, West Bank.
6. Media & Journalism Volunteer Program in Palestine
The Media and Journalism Volunteer Program in Palestine offers an ideal opportunity for those interested in amplifying the voices of Palestinians on the global stage. Volunteers will play a key role in raising awareness of human rights and political issues within the West Bank while gaining valuable experience in ethical journalism practices.
7. Medicine & Healthcare Volunteer Program in Palestine
The Medicine & Healthcare Program in Palestine is ideal for many volunteers, including medical professionals, pre-med students, medical school students, or individuals considering a healthcare career. Under the guidance of local professionals, volunteers will gain valuable experience with the Palestinian healthcare system, work in local hospitals, and learn about the medical and healthcare specializations offered by local universities.
8. Volunteer In A Technology Program In Palestine
Volunteer In A Technology Program In Palestine: The Volunteer in a Technology Program in Palestine provides a unique opportunity to share your computer and technical knowledge with Palestinian children, refugees, students, and community members in Hebron, West Bank, Palestine, while immersing yourself in Palestinian culture and life.
9. Volunteer In Local Schools In Palestine
Volunteer in Local Schools in Palestine: This program is a fantastic opportunity to positively impact the lives of Palestinian children, refugees, and youth. Our Volunteer in Local Palestinian Schools program in Hebron, West Bank, is a unique scheme that welcomes both native and non-native English speakers and students, graduates, professionals, and retirees interested in enhancing the English and life skills of local students.
10. Music and Art Volunteer Program
Our new Music and Art Volunteer Program in Hebron, West Bank, is an excellent opportunity for artists and individuals in the art and music fields. By engaging with the local Palestinian community, particularly students and youth, you will have the chance to develop projects and courses in these fields while contributing and making a difference in the local community. This program offers real-world experience that can help you grow personally and professionally.
Travel and Entry Requirements
Visa matters
Currently, in order to travel to Palestine to volunteer, you need to secure a visa from Israel. As of January 1st, 2025, you need to fill out an Electronic Travel Authorisation prior to departure.
Tourist visas are issued on arrival at the border and can last for up to 90 days. If you study locally, your student visa may also allow you to undertake volunteer activities for the duration of time you’re in Palestine.
Make sure to check the Israel immigration website for visa options for your passport country.
Getting to Palestine
If you’re not already in Palestine, this is very helpful to know! There are two key crossings into the West Bank: a land crossing through Jordan at the King Hussein Bridge, or arriving at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport just outside of Tel Aviv.
Travel through Jordan is currently highly recommended as many people have recently faced difficulty entering Israel through Ben Gurion Airport. The way takes a bit longer and is a bit more complicated, but there is generally a better chance that you will be granted entry. Read our article on traveling from Jordan to Palestine for more information.
Crossing the border
The first thing to know is that preparing to cross the border will almost always sound worse than it actually is. Since 2011, over 1000 volunteers have come to spend time with Salam Palestine with no problems. However, entering Palestine can be more difficult sometimes than at other times, depending on the changing security situation.
There is a chance that you might be pulled aside for questioning when you try to cross the border. The questions will usually be about your intentions in Israel (tourism, visiting friends and family, etc) and why you have decided to travel now. Israel does not want to let in foreign activists who might support Palestine, so it is highly recommended that you do not mention coming to the West Bank or any West Bank cities, volunteering, or learning Arabic.
Accommodation and Living Conditions
Accommodation
One important thing to think about is where you’re going to live for the duration of your program. It’s good to ask whether your organization provides accommodation or whether you are responsible for finding your own.
Salam Palestine has a variety of accommodation options to suit different needs. Most commonly, volunteers will reside at one of our shared flats located close to the center. There is one for men and one for women. The apartments are modern, spacious, and equipped with everything you need for daily living. Rooms might be shared depending on the number of volunteers, but it is possible to request a private room if you prefer. Another option (for female volunteers) is placement with a Palestinian host family. This immersion is a great way to experience the local culture and language.
Budget & Cost of Living
The next big thing to think about is budgeting for your program. Things to consider are program fees, accommodation, travel costs, and daily expenses. At some organisations, like Salam Palestine, program fees are inclusive of accommodation and breakfast. Choosing a program like this can significantly reduce your costs.
In terms of practicalities, the currency in Palestine is the New Israeli Shekel. You can use a currency converter tool to see the rate and check websites like Numbeo to get a sense of the current cost of living for everyday expenses.
Daily life
Each volunteer program will differ when it comes to their daily routine. In our experience, it’s best for people to have a combination of autonomy and structure.
At Salam Palestine, our volunteers’ days usually start at 10 am with a communal breakfast in our kitchen. We have everything you’ll usually find on the table for breakfast in a Palestinian home – bread, hummus, avocado, tomato, eggs, za’atar, and olive oil served with tea or coffee. This breakfast is an important start to the day, allowing staff and volunteers to mingle, speak about their experiences, and get to know each other better.
After breakfast, usually comes the Arabic classes with our wonderful teachers. All volunteer programs at the Center include 3 hours per week of Arabic classes to help you get around and connect with the local community.
In the afternoon, program-specific activities occur. This could include visiting a refugee camp, spending time at specialised schools or orphanages around Hebron city, teaching English at the Center, or going to rural Palestinian villages.
At the end of the day, volunteers usually like to go out for dinner at one of the many restaurants on bustling Ein Sara street, sit at a cafe and study together, or return home and cook for themselves. Volunteers are regularly invited to tea or dinner with some of the staff at the Center.
Exploring Palestine During Free Time
During your time in Palestine, why not take advantage of the beautiful landscape and array of historical and religiously significant cities? Many volunteers plan weekends or days away to see some of the sights of the West Bank, like Jerusalem, Nablus, Ramallah, and Bethlehem.
Weekends in Palestine fall on Fridays and Saturdays, while the start of the working week is on Sunday. On Fridays, most shops and cafes close, and many people like to stay home and spend time with their families. Saturdays tend to be more lively, with people out and about shopping and eating at restaurants with friends.
Transport options
While there are trains and light rail options in Israel, Palestine’s public transport consists of shared taxis called Services (pronounced Servees). These are usually quite affordable and easy to catch. Just make sure you agree on a price with the driver before you start the journey! You can also organise a private taxi or a local driver at a higher cost.
Where to go?
Some of our volunteers’ favourite places to visit are:
Bethlehem: Church of the Nativity, cultural attractions
The famous birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem, is a lovely city that mixes old and new almost seamlessly. A must-visit is the Church of the Nativity, said to be the birthplace of Jesus. For those into art, you can see the famous graffiti of the Separation Wall that runs through the city, featuring some pieces by the elusive Banksy. You can also buy beautiful locally made olive tree carvings, which are famous from this area.
Ramallah: Vibrant city life, museums, and nightlife
Located just north of Jerusalem, Ramallah is the cosmopolitan, political, and NGO center of Palestine. Less conservative than the south, foreigners can even visit bars and dance until the early hours in Ramallah. For a more cultural experience, you can find a museum dedicated to the legendary Palestinian poet, Mahmoud Darwish, or visit the tomb of Yasser Arafat.
Nablus: Historic souks, Jacob’s Well, Sebastia ruins
About an hour and a half north of Ramallah, Nablus is a beautiful little city nestled among surrounding mountains. This place is famous for its old winding markets and its delicious kunefe (a decadent dessert made with soft cheese and sugar syrup). In Nablus, you can also see historically and religiously significant sites, like Jacob’s Well and the Sebastia Ruins, that date back 4000 years.
Responsible Volunteering and Ethical Considerations
Volunteering ethically in a conflict affected area like Palestine requires some planning and thought. While most volunteers have good intentions at heart, their actions can have unintended negative consequences if they do not approach their work with cultural sensitivity and respect for the local community. .
Engaging in responsible activism means consistently asking important questions like: Am I taking up space in a movement that should be led by Palestinians, or is this work doing enough to support or build local capacity? It’s better to try to gauge this when you are looking for the right program and the right organisation to work with.
Support locally-led
It’s incredibly important to note that Palestinians have been actively resisting occupation since it started. Any volunteer coming to help is only offering support to this resistance.
As such, the best way to volunteer responsibly is to ensure you are working with a Palestinian-led initiative. These are created for and by Palestinian people, with their needs at the forefront of mind, which means you are less likely to be doing any harm through your volunteering activities. Also, try to make sure the program you choose contributes to long-term and positive change rather than short-term or symbolic gestures.
Risks
Responsible activism also means understanding the risks that local activists face. Unlike foreign volunteers, who often have the privilege of leaving if tensions escalate, Palestinians live with the long-term consequences of resistance. Volunteers must be careful not to put local people in danger by attracting unnecessary attention, engaging in actions without community approval, or sharing sensitive information that could risk people’s safety.
Conclusion
Volunteering in Palestine is a deeply meaningful experience that supports personal growth, cross-cultural understanding, and solidarity with the Palestinian people. By selecting a locally-led program, preparing for cultural and logistical challenges, and engaging responsibly, volunteers can ensure their work has a positive and lasting impact.
Whether you are teaching English, supporting refugee communities, or learning about human rights advocacy, your time in Palestine will leave you with invaluable experiences and lifelong connections. As you start on this journey, we recommend that you approach it with an open heart, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to ethical engagement, ensuring that your time here truly benefits the communities you’re here to help.
To express your interest in volunteering with Salam Palestine today, please email Info@ecpalestine.org.
Contact Us
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at:
WhatsApp: +972 599 479 880
Website: https://ecpalestine.org/
EC Website: https://excellencenter.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/excellence.center
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ExcellenceCenter
Tags: International youth volunteer programs Palestine, Palestine volunteer programs for foreigners, Student volunteering opportunities in Palestine, Study and volunteer abroad in Palestine
