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 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
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 Study in 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 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 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 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 by communicating with 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 in terms of an age requirement or any pre-existing language skills.
It’s really simple and easy to apply to volunteer with Study in 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 Study in 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. 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 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 the West Bank Program
Volunteer in the West Bank: Join us at Study in Palestine and explore our diverse 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 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 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 Study in Palestine Center 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. Study 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. Palestinian Law and Legal Systems Internship
Palestinian Law and Legal Systems Internship: This legal internship program is ideal for students of law, the social sciences, and human rights, as well as for anyone interested in the Palestinian legal system as it operates in the West Bank. As an intern, you can enroll for a period of from 1 to 13 weeks, year-round (spring, summer, fall, and winter). The Palestinian Law program aims to provide a full understanding of legislation applying to the West Bank and Gaza.
During the legal internship program, you will visit local Palestinian lawyers, law faculties, courts, human rights organizations, legal and religious institutions, as well as legal clinics in the city of Hebron, Palestine. You will witness the enactment of laws, the decision-making process, court rulings, legal negotiations, and mediations in various social settings.
7. Human Rights Internship in Palestine
Human Rights in Palestine Internship Program: Study in Palestine in Hebron offers human rights volunteer opportunities that highlight Palestinian rights and promote personal and professional growth. Students gain experience in international law, diplomacy, and humanitarian aid while enhancing their intercultural and Arabic language skills. Participants will raise awareness about human rights in the West Bank and support local communities through education.
Study in Palestine offers human rights internships and volunteer programs year-round for 1 to 13 weeks, with flexible start and end dates. Participants can learn Ammiya (Palestinian Arabic) and receive three hours of Arabic instruction weekly from qualified teachers. You’ll engage with Palestinian and international NGOs, professors, students, and human rights activists and participate in excursions to refugee camps and organizations, enhancing your academic work and Arabic skills.
8. Internship in the West Bank Program
Internship in the West Bank Program offers international participants the chance to immerse themselves in Palestinian culture and daily life and learn about human rights, Palestinian refugee situations, and politics in Hebron, West Bank. The program involves participating in a highly respected community development initiative run by Study in Palestine.
To promote a profound cultural experience, the Center organizes visits to various institutions, including Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Palestinian governmental organizations, factories, and Palestinian refugee camps in Hebron. This firsthand exposure offers an exciting opportunity for interns to gain insight into daily life in Palestine. The program provides a variety of internships at the Center to meet different interests and career objectives.
Additionally, interns enrolled in the Internship in the West Bank, Palestine program have the option to study either Modern Standard Arabic or Ammiya (spoken Arabic dialects). They can also engage with Palestinian locals, stay with a Palestinian host family, and gain a deeper understanding of the rich Palestinian culture.
9. Palestine and Israel in Context Internship
Palestine and Israel in Context Internship: Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, professional, retiree, or just someone interested in political history, human rights, Palestinian refugees, or the current situation, the Palestine and Israel in Context Internship program is for you! With the ability to hear the opinions of everyday people and understand, grasp, and witness the effects of the conflict firsthand, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain insider knowledge beyond the headlines.
In particular, if you’re a current student of humanities, political sciences, or Middle Eastern studies and looking to frame your knowledge within a cultural context, this internship program in Palestine is particularly pertinent to you as you will explore the occupation in the West Bank as well as meet Palestinian civilians, local human rights activists and families who are subject to Israeli military law.
In addition to these great opportunities, you will also be provided with an Arabic language course tailored to your individual level. With tuition of three hours a week, you’ll also be able to immerse yourself in your surroundings by chatting with local Palestinians, ordering food in restaurants, and more. Therefore, for those looking to enhance their knowledge of Arabic, experience cultural immersion, and conduct political research, consider our program to gain an in-depth, personalized internship.
10. The Palestinian Culture Internship Program
The Palestinian Culture Internship Program: This program is designed to provide its participants with a first-hand view of Palestinian culture, art, history, and industry. Interns in Palestine will be able to explore the beautiful and historic city of Hebron, take day trips to neighboring cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem, and explore other cultural and historical sites. The immersive internship focuses on how participants can enhance their experience of everyday Palestinian customs, politics, and culture.
This program would be ideal for a wide range of participants, whether native English speakers or not, from students to young professionals and retirees, or anyone interested in Palestinian culture or the politics of the Middle East. The program would also suit university students interested in an internship program (from 1 to 13 Weeks) that would be shorter than the typical semester or quarter system. Through its partnership with the Palestinian Education Authority, Study in Palestine can also provide academic credits to all participants.
The Palestinian Culture internship program offers an excellent opportunity for those interested in learning Palestinian or Levantine Arabic, providing a fully immersive linguistic experience. By participating in this program, individuals eager to learn Arabic will have numerous opportunities to practice their language skills daily with shopkeepers, restaurant owners, and other members of the Palestinian community in Hebron.
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 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 Study in Palestine 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.
Study in 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 Study in 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 its daily routine. In our experience, people should have a combination of autonomy and structure.
At Study in 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 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 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 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.
Reviews and Awards
Study in Palestine has been honored with several prestigious Community Awards and recognized as the Best Language School and Top Volunteer and Internship Program Provider in 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. For more details, please visit our profiles on GoOverseas.com and GoAbroad.com.
- 1000+ Reviews (96%) on Gooverseas.com
- 190+ Reviews (94%) on Goabroad.com
- Our Awards
- Participants’ video testimonials
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 Study in 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/
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