At VACorps, we offer a range of scholarships and discounts designed to recognize outstanding individuals and make our programs more accessible. Learn more about the opportunities available and how to apply below.

The VACorps African Union Scholarship

About:
The VACorps African Union Scholarship offers a $1,000 discount to individuals who can prove citizenship or permanent residency in any African Union member country. As a proudly South African organization, we are committed to promoting greater pan-African participation in our programs.

How to Apply:
There is no separate application form. To be considered:

• Apply to the VACorps program of your choice via the standard application process at www.vacorps.com.
• Mention your interest in the African Union Scholarship in your application or during communication with the VACorps team.
• Be prepared to submit documentation verifying your citizenship or residency (e.g., passport, national ID, utility bill, etc.).

The Global Horizons Scholarship

About:
The VACorps Global Horizons Scholarship offers a $675 discount to individuals from countries classified as emerging economies or developing nations according to the United Nations or World Bank. This scholarship reflects our commitment to creating a globally inclusive learning environment and ensuring that talented, motivated individuals from all corners of the world can access transformative internship experiences in Cape Town.

VACorps recognizes that the cost of international education can be a barrier to participation. Through this scholarship, we aim to empower rising changemakers from developing regions to gain practical experience, expand their professional networks, and contribute diverse perspectives to our international community.

How to Apply:
There is no separate application form. To be considered:

1. Apply to the VACorps program of your choice through the standard process at www.vacorps.com.

2. Indicate your interest in the Global Horizons Scholarship within your application or in correspondence with the VACorps team.

3. Be prepared to provide proof of citizenship or permanent residency in a qualifying country (e.g., passport, national ID, or official documentation).

Eligibility:
Applicants must hold citizenship or permanent residency in a country listed by the United Nations or World Bank as part of the developing world or emerging economies.

The Early Bird Discount

About:
Receive a $500 discount on your program fee if you apply early!

Eligibility Criteria:

• Apply to any VACorps program through the regular process on www.vacorps.com.
• If you are accepted into the program at least one calendar year prior to your intended start date, you will automatically qualify for the discount.

No separate application is required.

The Bring-a-Friend Discount

About:
You and a friend will both receive a $200 discount if you participate in the VACorps program together.

Eligibility Criteria:

• You and your friend must be formally enrolled in the VACorps program.
• You must let us know that you and your friend are participating together by completing the “Are you planning to participate in the VACorps program with a friend?” question on the VACorps Application Form.

No separate application is required to receive this discount.

VACorps Media Fellow Scholarship

About:
The VACorps Media Fellow Scholarship is awarded to one exceptional participant per term who demonstrates creativity, a passion for visual storytelling, and the ability to create compelling digital content. The selected fellow will receive a $500 scholarship and collaborate with our communications team during their time in Cape Town.

Who Should Apply:
We’re looking for a content creator with:

• A strong and unique visual style
• Experience with social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
• A desire to authentically document the VACorps experience
• An interest in building a digital portfolio in a meaningful, real-world setting

Application Questions:
Please send your responses and supporting materials to [email protected] with the subject line: Media Fellow Scholarship Application – [Your Name]

1. Can you share examples of your past social media work or content creation projects?
   (Include links to social media pages, videos, blogs, photography portfolios, etc.)
2. What is the most interesting or innovative way to engage the VACorps audience through your media perspective?
   (Share your creative approach to storytelling.)
3. How do you plan to document your experience in Cape Town?
   (Explain how your work will differ from past participants.)
4. How would you describe your visual style?
   (Include aesthetic influences, themes, or editing techniques.)
5. Are you willing to participate in two 30-minute calls per month with our Social Media Editor during your time in Cape Town?

VACorps Ambassador Scholarship

What is it?
This $500 scholarship is awarded to participants who demonstrate exceptional leadership, enthusiasm, and a strong commitment to cultural exchange. Ambassadors serve as role models and positive representatives of VACorps, both during their time in South Africa and upon returning home.

Who Should Apply:
Ideal candidates will:

• Have at least one year of campus-based study remaining after their VACorps experience
• Be willing to promote VACorps on their home campus

How to Apply:

• If you’ve already been accepted, reach out to your program advisor.
• If not yet accepted, email [email protected] for more details.

The WOW Factor Award

A Scholarship for Those Who Dare to Stand Out

What is it?
This is not your average scholarship. The WOW Factor Award celebrates individuals who live boldly, lead with purpose, and bring energy, creativity, and authenticity to everything they do. We’re looking for people who leave a lasting impression—the kind of person who makes us say, “We HAVE to have this person in the VACorps family.”

Who Should Apply:
You—if you:

• Know how to make an unforgettable first impression
• Have a story, voice, or vibe that deserves to be shared
• Live life with courage, curiosity, and intention
• Want to be part of something bigger than yourself
• Feel like VACorps is where you’re meant to be

How to Apply:

Simple—WOW us.
You can send us anything: a video, a letter, a short film, a poem, a song, a piece of art, or even an interpretive dance. Just make sure it answers the question:

“Why should VACorps choose you?”

No rules. No word counts. Just be bold, be creative, and be yourself.

Scholarship Amount:
The award amount is determined by our scholarship committee and is based on several factors, including financial need and availability within the program.