Register Your Interest For The Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) UniVol Graduate Programme

WELLINGTON, NZ – Volunteer Service Abroad Te Tūao Tāwāhi (VSA) is proud to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 UniVol Graduate Programme – a unique opportunity for New Zealand university graduates to make a real impact while gaining hands-on international development experience.

The UniVol programme places selected graduates into 10-month volunteer assignments with VSA partners across the Pacific and beyond, in a range of areas like education, youth development, conservation, and community engagement.

The VSA Graduate programme covers flights, accommodation, and a weekly allowance, providing a meaningful pathway into the development sector for young professionals.

Kate Wareham, VSA Chief Executive, says the UniVol graduate programme reflects VSA’s long-standing commitment to building reciprocal, sustainable partnerships in the Pacific and beyond. “UniVols bring incredible energy, curiosity, and commitment to our partner organisations. It’s a unique opportunity to contribute to global development while growing personally and professionally. The relationships and experiences the volunteers gain often shape the rest of their lives and careers.”

Since 2007, the UniVol Programme has sent over 200 volunteers abroad, helping them build cross-cultural understanding and gain practical skills that enhance their career prospects in New Zealand and internationally.

Past UniVol volunteer Alex Muir, who worked in Samoa in 2023 as an environmental education coordinator, says the experience was transformative. “Being a VSA UniVol changed the way I see the world and my role in it. I learned so much about community-led development, resilience, and humility. It gave me the confidence to pursue a career in sustainability and development.”

Expressions of interest for 2026 are now open until Monday 4 August. VSA encourages graduates from all disciplines who are passionate about international development to apply.

Assignment will be scheduled for 2026.

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