Volunteer Programs for International Students in Palestine 2026/2027: For international students, volunteering in Palestine offers a unique and deeply educational experience, providing an opportunity 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.
Volunteering abroad allows students to develop valuable skills, enhance their academic and professional profiles, and experience cultural immersion 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
Volunteer Programs for International Students in Palestine 2026/2027 – Options
Due to the high level of need in Palestine, numerous volunteering options are available to suit a wide range 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 the Excellence Center, practicing English with native speakers is one of the most valuable ways they have improved 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 offers a chance to look beyond the headlines and gain a deeper understanding of human rights abuses in the West Bank, equipping you 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 an orphanage in Hebron, at a refugee camp 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 spaces, 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. Although undertaken with the best of intentions, some overseas internship organisations can have a negative impact on the local community. Check online or contact the organization directly to see whether the programs are locally run.
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 based on age or any pre-existing language skills.
It’s really simple and easy to apply to volunteer with the Excellence Center. 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 the Excellence Center, 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. Your spending 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 provide a way for friends and family to support your volunteer experience. Sharing your motivations for coming to Palestine, along with a donation link, is an easy way to get support.
The best way to find additional funding is to check whether your educational institution offers scholarships or other support for volunteering initiatives. You might even write your own proposal on the value of volunteering to your educational advancement and submit it yourself!
Which Programs Are Available for International Students in Palestine?
1. Volunteer in the West Bank Program
Volunteer in the West Bank: Join us at Excellence Center in Palestine and explore our diverse range of volunteer and internship programs! Any program you choose will have many people needing support, and your influence on the Palestinian communities will be unforgettable. The kind people of Palestine make the opportunity a fantastic and welcoming experience.
Please take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to meet Palestinian people, experience their daily lives, learn Arabic, and gain a unique perspective of the Israel-Palestinian conflict firsthand! Your role as an international volunteer or intern can significantly improve Palestinians’ prospects in various ways, including teaching English, organizing community activities, raising awareness, and informing the world that Palestine is not portrayed as mainstream media sources commonly depict it.
Because of the occupation, Palestinians have not always had the opportunity to offer the world an authentic portrayal of their culture, and they are all keen to share their expertise and encourage international visitors to participate in Palestinian culture. Your experience with us will be fulfilling and gratifying! We offer opportunities throughout the year, with durations ranging from one week to three months, available in all seasons and months.
2. Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees
Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees: This program caters to undergraduate and graduate students, professionals, employees of human rights organizations, retirees, and anyone interested in engaging with the work concerning Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, Palestine. Getting involved in refugee assistance presents an excellent opportunity for university students and recent graduates seeking to gain experience in the human rights field.
Through this project in the West Bank, volunteers will have the opportunity to work with Palestinian children, women, and youths to enhance each other’s skills, create mutual understanding, engage in language exchange, and make a difference in each other’s lives.
The Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees in the West Bank program is open to individuals between the ages of 18 and 70. People from all countries and majors are welcome to join this program. There are no specific degree requirements. All that is required is a willingness to participate and help.
3. The Palestinian Women’s Rights Program
The Palestinian Women’s Rights Program in the West Bank is a volunteer initiative that allows international visitors to visit Palestine and gain exclusive insight into women’s rights in the West Bank. Located in the vibrant city of Hebron, the project provides participants with many opportunities to meet Palestinian women, visit women’s rights organizations, and engage in educational and cultural activities.
Aimed at educating international participants about the current power dynamics of women in Palestinian society, you will get involved with volunteering with Palestinian women by promoting their rights and empowering them in all spheres of life, including the family, the workplace, and politics, all whilst ensuring they are safe from violence, exploitation, and discrimination.
Altogether, this volunteer program will enable you to gain awareness about gender equality in Hebron (one of the most conservative cities in Palestine) whilst also allowing you to study and practice Arabic, meet other internationals, and experience Palestinian daily life.
4. Media and Journalism in Palestine Program
The Media and Journalism volunteer program in the West Bank is ideal for anyone interested in giving Palestinians a voice on the global stage. As a volunteer, you will help raise awareness of circumstances within the West Bank while also learning about ethical journalistic practices. Although this program would suit many potential volunteers, seasoned and aspiring journalists are especially encouraged to apply.
This volunteer program in the West Bank, Palestine, would also interest students of journalism, mass communication, media studies, communications, political science, English, social work, and other related fields. Recent graduates will welcome the opportunity to gain real-world experience from this program, as cross-cultural communication, travel within the Middle East, and Arabic language acquisition are all highly valued by prospective employers.
During the Media and Journalism program, you will be responsible for conducting video interviews with local Palestinians and writing articles encapsulating the Palestinian refugee experience. You will also participate in center-led activities and become familiar with Palestinians’ daily lives and human rights situations.
5. Volunteer to Teach English in the West Bank
The Volunteer to Teach English in the West Bank program offers an eye-opening experience for those who want to visit Palestine and engage with Palestinian youth, children, women, refugees, and community members in Hebron. Volunteers will teach English to Palestinian students at the Excellence Center in Palestine or local community development centers, Palestinian local schools, governmental or non-governmental organizations, and refugee camps.
Additionally, participants will actively immerse themselves in Palestinian culture, daily life, politics, and regional situations. Excellence Center in Palestine hosts volunteers and interns from around the world year-round. This involvement allows you to meet international colleagues at the Center, travel throughout Palestine, and collaborate in teaching English. You will also participate in various social, educational, cultural, and community development activities in Hebron.
Suppose you aspire to pursue a career in TESOL, TESL, TEFL, or related English language teaching roles. In that case, this internship program provides an outstanding opportunity to acquire practical experience and bolster your English teaching skills.
6. Volunteer with Palestinian Children
Volunteer With Palestinian Children Program offers students, professionals, retirees, and teachers an excellent opportunity to work directly with Palestinian children in the West Bank. It welcomes anyone interested in volunteering or interning, regardless of their first language.
Those interested in childhood education can benefit from volunteering or interning with children in Palestine. Participants are immersed in Palestinian culture, daily life, politics, human rights, and education.
Volunteers can join our program for 1 to 13 weeks, with flexible start and end dates year-round. All backgrounds and nationalities are welcome to apply, but participants must be at least 18.
As a volunteer or intern in Hebron, West Bank, you will meet many Palestinian children eager to interact with visitors. Supporting their growth positively impacts their well-being and the future of their country, making a difference in both their lives and yours.
7. Palestinian Community Development Program
The Volunteer in Palestinian Community Development Program in the West Bank offers a unique opportunity for students, undergraduates, teachers, and others seeking to volunteer or intern in Palestinian community development organizations in Palestine and Israel. If you wish to help Palestinian children and youth, refugees in refugee camps, and other community members in and around Hebron, West Bank, this program is for you. As a volunteer, you will be immersed in Palestinian culture whilst meeting new people (from Palestine and abroad), studying Arabic, and making a difference in people’s lives.
The Palestinian Community Development Volunteer and Internship Program has an essential impact on the Palestinian community. Through this program, you can help empower community members to develop themselves personally, professionally, and economically. At the same time, volunteers gain valuable experience in their personal development by running seminars, giving lectures, offering employment advice, and building interpersonal relationships within the local Palestinian community.
8. Volunteer in the Environment and Conservation Program in Palestine
Volunteer in the Environment and Conservation Program in Palestine: You are invited to join us at Excellence Center in Palestine and volunteer in our Environment and Conservation program, aimed at teaching Palestinian youth, refugees, and children about the importance of preserving the environment. In the West Bank, Palestine, there is a pressing need for such programs, as many residents of Hebron are unaware of the harmful effects of littering and environmental neglect on their own lands and streets.
This volunteer program is an excellent opportunity for students, graduates, and travelers interested in the environment and conservation in the West Bank. If you’re a university student looking for an environment and conservation program abroad to supplement your studies during your summer break, this program is ideal for you.
By joining our volunteer program in the West Bank, you will have the chance to share your passion for the environment and conservation while experiencing Palestinian daily life and learning about Palestinian culture firsthand. We offer our participants three hours of complimentary Arabic Classes each week, taught one-to-one or in small groups of two to three students, and accommodation during their stay.
9. Volunteer in a Sports Project in Palestine
Volunteer in a Sports Project in Palestine: Since its establishment in 2011, Excellence Center in Palestine has maintained high standards in English language teaching with the help of numerous international volunteers. However, to meet the increasing demand for diverse programs, we are excited to introduce a new series of volunteer programs, including the Volunteer in a Sports Project in Palestine.
This volunteer program in the West Bank offers a unique opportunity for current students, postgraduates, gap year students, professionals, teachers, retirees, and anyone interested in sports-related fields to volunteer with the local Palestinian community. As a volunteer, you can share your passion and expertise by organizing workshops, lectures, sporting tournaments, training sessions, summer camps, and more for Palestinian youth.
The Volunteer in a Sports Project in Hebron program is ideal for individuals with a strong interest and background in sports or related fields. Through this program, you can develop your activities and contribute to the local Palestinian community while gaining personal and professional development opportunities and having fun.
10. Volunteer With Orphanages in Palestine
Volunteer With Orphanages in Palestine: 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 mainly due to ongoing conflict, military occupation, economic hardship, and limited access to healthcare. Some children lose their parents to direct violence, such as military raids, airstrikes, and clashes. Others are caused by the impact of long-term instability, including imprisonment of family members, displacement, or lack of access to health services.
There are approximately 7,000 orphans in and around Hebron city, ranging from infants to young adults. These orphanages provide essential services such as housing, education, medical care, and psychological support to children without stable family situations. They often rely on funding from local charities, international donors, and religious organizations to support their operations. Some orphanages also function as social enterprises, operating businesses like kitchens and grocery stores to generate income and further support their work.
Travel and Entry Requirements
Visa matters
Currently, 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 before 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 Israeli 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 is a bit longer and more complicated, but there is generally a better chance 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 1,000 volunteers have come to the Excellence Center without any issues. However, entering Palestine can be more difficult at times than at others, 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 consideration is where you will live during your program. It’s good to ask whether your organization provides accommodation or whether you are responsible for finding your own.
The Excellence Center has a variety of accommodation options to suit different needs. Most commonly, volunteers will reside in one of our shared flats near 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 may be shared depending on the number of volunteers, but you can request a private room if you prefer. Another option (for female volunteers) is to be placed 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, such as the Excellence Center, program fees include accommodation and breakfast. Choosing a program like this can significantly reduce your costs.
Practically speaking, 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 in its daily routine. In our experience, people need a balance of autonomy and structure.
At the Excellence Center, our volunteers’ days usually start at 10 am with a communal breakfast in our kitchen. We have everything you’ll usually find on the breakfast table in a Palestinian home—bread, hummus, avocado, tomato, eggs, za’atar, and olive oil, served with tea or coffee. This breakfast is an essential start to the day, allowing staff and volunteers to mingle, speak about their experiences, and get to know each other better.
After breakfast, the Arabic classes are usually taught by our excellent 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, consider taking advantage of the beautiful landscape and array of historical and religiously significant cities. Many volunteers plan weekends or days away to explore the West Bank’s notable sights, including 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 dining 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 seamlessly blends old and new. 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 the 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, 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 essential 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 essential 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 significant 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 embark on this journey, we encourage you to 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 the Excellence Center 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
