03 March 2011
How much will it cost to participate in ICS?
The scheme is open to everyone, but those who can afford to contribute will be asked to pay for part of the costs of their volunteer placements overseas, while those with lower incomes will be able to go for free.
How much you need to contribute will be based on the income of the household on which you depend. This means the household whose income you depend on to fully or partially support you, eg. your parents or other carer(s). If you are financially independent, your contribution will be based on your own income.
If the income of the household on which you depend is:
- less than £25,000 per year: you pay nothing, your participation in ICS will be fully funded;
- between £25,000-£40,000 per year: you need to pay £1,000 to participate in ICS;
- over £40,000 per year: you need to pay £2,000 to participate in ICS.
What do the costs cover?
Regardless of how much you pay, you will be provided with flights, visas, travel and medical insurance, medication and vaccines, food and accommodation, an allowance while you are overseas, and full support throughout the whole programme.
What are the living conditions?
You will be staying in either rented accommodation or in a home stay with local families. There are minimum standards of safety and comfort, but it is very important to prepare yourself for basic conditions. After all, you will be staying in a developing country. You will be given more details about the living conditions once you’ve chosen which programme you want to apply for.
Help to raise the funds you need
If you are selected to go on ICS, you will receive advice on how to raise funds to help pay for your placement. Even if you don't have to pay to participate in ICS, we encourage you to have a go at raising funds so you can also get involved and help raise money towards the development projects you and others will be working on.
After your application has been accepted, you’ll be provided with a range of ideas, guides and materials on the web to get you started with fundraising. At any point you’ll be able to contact an ICS staff member for feedback and guidance on your fundraising activities.
More Information or questions
If you have any questions about ICS look at the frequently asked questions. If you have further questions, email Enquiry@ics-uk.org.uk, or phone the ICS team on 0208 780 7400. To receive regular information on ICS, sign up to the ICS Facebook page
