What is AmeriCorps VISTA?

VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965 and incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for 40 years.

What do VISTA members do?

AmeriCorps VISTA members serve full-time for a year in anti-poverty organizations and agencies throughout the nation, working on issues such as fighting illiteracy, improving health services, creating businesses, increasing housing opportunities, improving college access, and bridging the digital divide.

VISTAs perform indirect service, which means they help build the capacity of organizations to deliver valuable direct services to people living in poverty. VISTAs typically create new programs, write grants, and recruit volunteers. For example, a VISTA could establish a tutoring program, recruit and train volunteers, and raise money for the program—but would not tutor the children.

Do I get paid?

You will not get rich from it, but VISTA members receive a modest, monthly living allowance to help cover the basic necessities. VISTA members who successfully complete a term of service are also eligible to receive either a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $4,725 to pay for college or to pay off student loans, or an end-of-service cash stipend of $1,200.

What are the other benefits?

Additional benefits include training, limited health care benefits, relocation expenses, student-loan forbearance or deferment and non-competitive eligibility for a federal government position. You may also be eligible for childcare assistance should you need it. Perhaps the greatest benefit is the experience of making a positive change in your community and your country. But there are other benefits as well. To learn more about the extensive benefits of VISTA service, click here.

What skills do I need?

Most programs seek members with college degrees or at least three years of work experience. Many VISTAs bring significant work and life experiences to their assignment. Initiative, flexibility, and organizational skills are a must. Fluency in Spanish or other languages also are helpful in certain programs. You must be available to serve full-time for one year.

Can I join if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

You must be a U.S. citizen, national, or legal permanent resident alien of the United States to be a VISTA.

Is there an age requirement?

You must be at least 18 years old, but there is no upper age limit. With such a wide variety of projects, VISTA seeks individuals from all walks of life.

Where will I serve?

VISTAs can serve anywhere in the United States. Volunteer opportunities exist in big cities, rural towns, and everywhere in between. This is your opportunity to give back to your local neighborhood or to one on the other side of the country if you so choose. As a VISTA, you serve an organization focused on a specific project to help a low-income community. You have the option to apply to any location, project or area of focus you want. The choice is yours – we want passionate individuals who are ready to step up and serve the community.

Are my relocation costs covered?

If you are moving more than 50 miles to serve as a VISTA, you are eligible to receive up to $500 to assist with your moving expenses. Each state director distributes relocation funds with his or her own discretion.

Are all assignments full-time?

All VISTA positions are full-time, year-long engagements. Our VISTA summer program is the exception, with the engagement lasting between 8-12 weeks but still being a full-time commitment.

Can I hold another job during my service?

When you serve as a VISTA you are committed to the program 24/7, meaning you cannot hold any outside employment or attend school during your year of service.

Will I get any training before I start?

Absolutely. All VISTAs receive pre-service training, as well as project-specific training during service. At the pre-service orientation (PSO), VISTAs meet and network with fellow VISTAs to cultivate support systems that are valuable throughout the year of service. Additionally, skill sets are honed and developed to prepare you for life as an AmeriCorps VISTA member.

Will my college or university match my education award?

The Segal AmeriCorps Education Award is matched by certain colleges and universities. Click here for the list.

Can I defer student loans during my service with AmeriCorps?

You may qualify for postponement, or forbearance, of the repayment of your loans during your service. The education award will help you pay off qualified student loans when you're finished. Contact your lender for more specific information or to confirm your loan status during VISTA service.

How and where do I apply to become a VISTA member?

To apply for a VISTA position, you will need to create a profile in our online recruitment system. Next, you can search for positions that meet your interest and location requirements. You can apply for several positions with the same application. To start the process, click here.

What is the timeline for acceptance?

The timeline depends on several factors. First, VISTA applications are reviewed by each project that you apply to. If the project and you both agree that the VISTA position is a good match for you, then the State Office will review your application. Once everyone agrees, you will then be officially accepted and will receive information about your pre-service orientation (PSO).

How long can I serve?

You can serve as a VISTA for up to three years. However, you can only receive two education awards. If you receive two education awards and serve a third year, you must choose the cash stipend for the last year.

What is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps is a network of service programs throughout the Untied States. Two AmeriCorps programs are managed from our headquarters in Washington, D.C.: VISTA and NCCC. A third AmeriCorps program grants millions of dollars to hundreds of local and national organizations serving in every state of the union.