The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) celebrates two major milestones in 2026: the 10th anniversary of the Corps and 30 years of organized EU volunteering. With an expanded budget of €175.3 million, there has never been a better time for young people to engage in meaningful action across Europe and beyond.

Whether you are looking to take a gap year, enhance your professional skills, or contribute to a cause you care about, the ESC offers a fully funded framework to help you make a difference.

What is the European Solidarity Corps?

The European Solidarity Corps is a flagship European Union initiative that creates opportunities for young people to volunteer or run their own solidarity projects. It is designed to foster inclusion, democracy, and social impact while providing participants with life-changing personal and professional experiences.

Who Can Participate?

The program is open to young people from EU Member States and associated third countries (such as Iceland, Türkiye, and North Macedonia) and More.

• Age Limit: You must be between 18 and 30 years old at the start of your activity.
• Humanitarian Aid Exception: For projects focused on international humanitarian aid, the age limit is extended to 35 years old.

Key Priorities for 2026

For the 2026 cycle, the European Commission has highlighted several high-priority areas. Aligning your application with these themes can significantly increase your chances of selection:

• Environmental Sustainability: Projects focusing on climate action and “Green” transition.
• Digital Transformation: Bridging the digital divide and enhancing digital literacy.
• Inclusion and Diversity: Providing opportunities for those with fewer opportunities or from marginalized backgrounds.
• Disaster Preparedness: A new focus on societal preparedness and providing relief to those fleeing armed conflicts or natural disasters.
• Intergenerational Solidarity: Encouraging dialogue and cooperation between different age groups to combat age discrimination.

Types of Opportunities

1. Volunteering Projects

These are the most popular ESC activities. You can join an organization abroad for a period ranging from 2 weeks to 12 months.

• Individual Volunteering: A long-term commitment (2–12 months) where you work daily on a project.
• Volunteering Teams: Short-term activities (2 weeks to 2 months) where groups of at least five participants from different countries work together on a specific goal.

2. Solidarity Projects

If you see a problem in your local community, you do not have to go abroad to fix it. A group of at least five young people can apply for funding to run their own local solidarity project for up to 12 months.

3. Humanitarian Aid Volunteering

Operated under the “EU Aid Volunteers” umbrella, these projects take place in non-EU countries to support humanitarian relief operations and local capacity building.

Financial Support: Is it Really Free?

The ESC is often referred to as a “scholarship” because it covers nearly all essential costs. Participants receive:

Expense Category	Coverage Details
Travel	Contribution to travel costs from your home to the project location.
Accommodation	Provided by the host organization at no cost to you.
Subsistence	Food and local transport costs are covered.
Pocket Money	A daily allowance for personal expenses (amount varies by country).
Insurance	Comprehensive health and accident insurance is provided.
Language Support	Access to the Online Language Support (OLS) tool to learn the host country’s language.

How to Apply

1. Register on the Portal: Join the European Solidarity Corps Portal. Complete your profile, list your skills, and state your availability.
2. Browse Opportunities: Once registered, you can search for “vacancies” posted by organizations that hold a Quality Label.
3. Contact Organizations: You can apply directly through the portal or reach out to “Supporting Organizations” in your home country to help you find a placement.
4. Interview and Selection: Many organizations will conduct a video interview to ensure you are a good fit for their specific project.

Why You Should Apply in 2026

Beyond the altruistic impact, the European Solidarity Corps is a powerhouse for career development. At the end of your service, you receive a Youthpass Certificate, a formal document that validates the non-formal learning and skills you acquired. In a competitive job market, this certification proves your adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and commitment to social responsibility.

With the 2026 budget increase, the EU aims to reach thousands more participants than in previous years. Start your application today to secure your place in one of Europe’s most prestigious youth programs.