Frequently Asked Questions
Read our FAQ, and if you have more questions, contact us directly.
About AmeriCorps
What is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps is the United States’ system for people to serve communities across the country – in classrooms, the outdoors, and everywhere in between. In AmeriCorps, you can learn and apply new skills as you give back to your community, state, and country through public service. Since its creation in 1994, more than a million people have served in AmeriCorps.
What do AmeriCorps members do?
People who join AmeriCorps (called “members”) provide direct service in the areas of education, economic opportunity, affordable housing, substance use recovery, and conservation. Here in Minnesota, there are hundreds of opportunities to get involved.
As an AmeriCorps member, you can:
- Help children become confident readers
- Prepare students for high school math
- Serve people in recovery from substance use disorder
- Tutor and mentor youth
- Build and restore affordable housing
- Teach computer and employment skills
- Clean parks and streams
- And much more!
Where do AmeriCorps members serve?
Members can serve with nonprofit organizations, state and local units of government, public and charter schools, institutions of higher education, Native nations, and more. AmeriCorps members are serving across the state in 82 of Minnesota’s 87 counties. Click here for a list of all of our AmeriCorps programs.
What’s it like to serve with AmeriCorps?
It really depends on what program you join. You could be tutoring kids, cleaning a river, or supporting adults in substance use recovery. Check out our blog to get an idea of what AmeriCorps members do.
What is ServeMinnesota and how is it related to AmeriCorps?
ServeMinnesota is the Minnesota State Commission for National and Community Service, which means we’re the central hub for state programs that engage AmeriCorps members. We are responsible for awarding federal and state funds to support AmeriCorps programs that have proven, measurable impact on critical community needs across Minnesota. We also provide monitoring, training, and technical assistance to AmeriCorps programs in Minnesota.
A range of different organizations and nonprofits implement the programs ServeMinnesota funds. These organizations include Minnesota-based nonprofits such as Minnesota Alliance With Youth and national organizations like Ampact, a nonprofit that specializes in managing and scaling AmeriCorps programs such as Reading Corps, Math Corps, and Recovery Corps. Here’s the full list of programs.
How are programs like VISTA, NCCC, and others related to AmeriCorps and ServeMinnesota?
AmeriCorps includes four distinct streams of service.
- ServeMinnesota is part of AmeriCorps State and National, the largest of the four streams. It provides grants to eligible organizations to meet needs in all states and US territories in the areas of education, health, the environment, economic opportunity, veterans services, and disaster services. Here’s the full list of programs currently funded through ServeMinnesota.
- AmeriCorps VISTA connects full‐time AmeriCorps members to nonprofits, public agencies, and community organizations nationwide. These members work primarily inside organizations, helping them build their capacity to create and expand programs that bring low-income people and communities out of poverty.
- AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, team-based, residential program for people ages 18 to 26. Members work on a wide variety of projects – such as building homes for families in need or accelerating our nation’s capacity to respond to a crisis – while developing leadership, teamwork, and professional skills. AmeriCorps NCCC FEMA Corps serves communities, in coordination with FEMA, through disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
- AmeriCorps Seniors engages Americans aged 55 and older in various service roles, including mentoring, tutoring, and providing support to seniors and homebound individuals. It includes programs like Foster Grandparent, Senior Companion, and RSVP.
The programs listed on our website are not the only AmeriCorps opportunities available in Minnesota. There are also AmeriCorps positions offered in Minnesota through VISTA and other service streams, which are managed by national AmeriCorps staff, not ServeMinnesota.
Eligibility to Serve
Can I serve with AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and life stages! AmeriCorps members are retirees, students, recent graduates, stay-at-home parents, and more. They bring many different life experiences to their service, and often say it’s an excellent way to learn.
Here are the minimum requirements most AmeriCorps programs require:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a national or legal permanent resident of the U.S.
- For most programs, you need to be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit – many retirees serve with AmeriCorps.
- You must have served less than four terms with AmeriCorps or you must have earned less than two full-time equivalent education awards.
Explore program pages to learn more about what each program looks for in candidates. All of our programs offer training to help you feel confident and prepared to serve.
Can retirees serve with AmeriCorps?
Yes! Many people serve with AmeriCorps during their retirement.
Can high school graduates serve with AmeriCorps?
Yes, they can, depending on the program. Most programs require members to be 18 years old at the start of their service. Some programs also require a certain level of educational experience.
Do I need a college degree to serve with AmeriCorps? Can college students serve with AmeriCorps?
You do not need a college degree to serve with AmeriCorps. Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, but do not require a college degree. Some programs prefer additional experience, education, or skills – all programs provide training specific to their program so that you can be successful in your role. It’s helpful to take a look at the full description of the program you’re considering to learn more about any requirements.
Many college students serve with programs during the summer and in part-time positions during the school year. After graduating from college, many recent graduates choose to serve with AmeriCorps as they begin their careers.
Do you need a certain professional background to serve with AmeriCorps?
The only credential you need for most programs is a high school diploma or equivalent. Aside from that, AmeriCorps members receive training at the beginning of their service to help them be successful in their role. They also receive additional training and coaching that supports them throughout their term.
If I’ve served with AmeriCorps before, can I apply to serve another term? What is the total number of terms I can serve?
As of early 2025, AmeriCorps limits the number of terms you can serve to whichever is longer:
- Four terms with AmeriCorps
- However many terms it takes to reach two full-time equivalent Education Awards
Based on 2025 numbers, AmeriCorps members who serve two full-time terms will be able to earn a total of $14,790 via the Education Award.
AmeriCorps made this change to accommodate AmeriCorps members who serve part-time.
Do people applying to AmeriCorps need to pass a background check?
Yes. AmeriCorps members are subject to a National Service Criminal History Check, a baseline screening required by law in all states. Positions working with children or vulnerable populations may be subject to additional screening. A criminal history does not automatically disqualify you from service.
Stipends and Awards
Is AmeriCorps a paid opportunity?
Yes, it is. AmeriCorps members receive a small living stipend (also called a living allowance) that’s delivered as a paycheck every two weeks during their active service.
The stipend isn’t an hourly wage or tied to the number of hours worked. Instead, every paycheck is exactly the same amount, because the stipend is distributed evenly during the service term. Note that the stipend is considered taxable income and AmeriCorps members pay state and federal taxes on their stipends. The Education Award is also federal taxable income, but in Minnesota it is not included as income for state taxes. To help with other expenses, members who serve full time are eligible for health insurance and may also be eligible for child care reimbursement, depending on family size and income.
How much do AmeriCorps members earn?
Members serving in full‐time positions receive a minimum living allowance of at least $20,400 during their year of service. The exact monthly amount a member gets paid in Minnesota depends on the program. Members who serve in part‐time and summer positions receive a prorated living stipend. Like any other paycheck, the stipend has taxes withheld.
What is the Education Award and how much money do AmeriCorps members receive from it?
After completing their terms of service, full‐time members receive an education award of up to $7,395 (based on 2025 rates) to pay for higher education or qualified student loans.
Award amounts are based on the member’s start date, weekly hours commitment, and previous service with AmeriCorps. Part-time members receive a prorated award. The amount can change each year – the position posting you’re looking at will tell you the exact amount.
AmeriCorps members can earn up to the value of two full-time awards through multiple terms of service. Awards are good for seven years after a service term ends. Learn more.
How can the education award be used? What if I'm not in college?
You can use the education award to pay for tuition for associate, undergraduate, or graduate studies at most colleges, universities, and technical schools – but you can use it for many other things, including:
- Books, college fees, and other educational necessities
- Online courses at approved college and university programs
- A laptop that you purchase through your school
- Paying qualified federal student loans
- Expenses for programs to study or volunteer abroad
- Coursework in specialized skills like coding, EMT training, sign language certification, teaching certification, and more
- Apprenticeship program fees
If you’re 55 or older, you can transfer all or part of your education award to your child, stepchild, foster child, grandchild, or step-grandchild. That person has 10 years from the date you complete your service to use it.
Some colleges and universities will match your education award. In Minnesota, this includes the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Augsburg College and Concordia University-St. Paul, Macalester College, Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and University of St. Thomas. Some schools match the amount of the education award, and some schools offer scholarships. Check with your college or university to learn their policy.
Can I defer college loan payments while serving in AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps members who have federal student loans may qualify for student loan forbearance. If you qualify, you can postpone your student loan payments during your service term.
After you complete your term of service, the National Service Trust will reimburse you for part or all of the interest that accrues during forbe
Healthcare and Other Benefits
Do AmeriCorps members get health insurance?
Yes. Members who serve 35 hours a week or more receive individual health care benefits, and AmeriCorps pays the entire monthly premium. Most programs (but not all) in Minnesota are part of the Corps Network Plan. The Corps Network Plan has a $175 annual deductible, provides free preventive care, and has low copays.
Does AmeriCorps offer housing assistance?
As of 2025, programs in Minnesota do not offer housing assistance. Some national programs do, like the NCCC.
Do AmeriCorps members get childcare assistance?
If you need childcare to be able to serve, AmeriCorps offers a Childcare Benefit Program for qualified, active, full-time (35 or more hours per week) members. The amount of assistance is based on family size and household income, and is paid directly to qualified childcare providers.
What other benefits do AmeriCorps members receive?
Serving in AmeriCorps is an amazing way to discover your passions and get on the path to pursuing your life’s work. You’ll build a valuable network, gain training and experience in a new field, and acquire the skills employers are looking for.
Additionally, members in the Twin Cities metro area can get help with transportation costs through the Transit Assistance Program (TAP). Members who enroll get $1 rides on every bus or light-rail train.
Will my eligibility for assistance programs like SNAP, HUD, and WIC change?
Although your stipend is taxable, it isn’t counted as income by many assistance programs, including SNAP, HUD, Social Security, veterans’ benefits, and WIC. If you currently participate in one of these programs, your living stipend shouldn’t affect your benefits.
Your stipend could potentially affect eligibility for a few programs, including SSDI, Medicaid, unemployment, the CSFP/NAPS food program for seniors, and MinnesotaCare. You have the option to waive all or part of your stipend to avoid having an impact on your benefits.
Location and Scheduling
Are there positions close to me?
Most likely, yes! AmeriCorps members serve in the majority of Minnesota’s 87 counties. To see where a program is located, see what regions are listed under “Service Areas” (here is our program list). To see what positions they have open and in what specific areas, visit that program’s website.
Some programs match you with the organization or school you’ll serve at after you apply. Other programs have you apply to a position at a specific organization or school. The process is a little different for each program.
Can AmeriCorps work for my schedule?
AmeriCorps service can work for many different types of schedules. Members can choose to start their service in September, October, or January, and typically finish in June or July. Conservation Corps members serving for a year begin in January and serve for the whole calendar year.
You choose the time commitment you want to make, either full-time or part-time. Most members serve during typical business hours, and the schedule is predictable and consistent. You commit to serve every day that you’re scheduled, but schedules are built to accommodate holidays and occasional sick days.
Can I serve in AmeriCorps part-time?
We do have some programs that offer part-time positions! Part-time positions vary in terms of how many hours per week you’ll need to serve, from 10 to 30. There are also programs with summer terms; these are almost exclusively full time (35 hours per week or more).
To see which programs offer part-time options, take a look at the program you’re interested in and look under “Time Commitment” on the left-hand side of its web page. If you want to see what specific positions are available and their time commitment, visit that program’s website.
Can I serve in AmeriCorps during the summer?
Absolutely! AmeriCorps programs in Minnesota offer summer positions every year. Check our website page about summer AmeriCorps positions for more information. Summer applications usually open in February or March. Sign up for Recruitment Emails to get reminders and information about open summer applications!
Can I have a second job while I'm in AmeriCorps?
Yes. Most full-time positions have daytime, weekday hours, so you could work in the evenings while serving full-time. You could also serve part-time with AmeriCorps and find a second job that complements your schedule. We list the programs that offer full-time and part-time options on each program’s page.
Careers after AmeriCorps
Does AmeriCorps lead to a career after my service is over?
Yes! Alumni go on to pursue careers in conservation, education, technology, nonprofit management, recovery, and many other fields. More than 80% of AmeriCorps alumni say that serving with AmeriCorps benefited their career path, and more than half of alumni say that AmeriCorps opened up a career path they wouldn’t have considered otherwise.
Many AmeriCorps members go on to work at their former service sites, and many others are able to find jobs through the connections they made during their service. Some members use their year of service as a stepping stone to graduate or pre-professional school. Others find out what they don’t want during their year of service, and use that knowledge to choose professional settings that work best for them.
Certain programs like Minnesota Grow Your Own Teacher (MNGOT) as well as Recovery Corps provide reduced-cost pathways to obtaining certifications and higher education.
How can serving in AmeriCorps help build my professional skills?
Many of our service opportunities are a lot like an internship: They’ll help you build your professional skills and knowledge in a wide array of areas. Some of the top areas of expertise you can build through service are in education, public policy, health policy, human resources, technology, and the environment. No matter which program you choose, AmeriCorps will help you develop the soft skills that employers are looking for, like teamwork, leadership, verbal and written communication, problem solving, and adaptability.
Some AmeriCorps programs in Minnesota provide career-focused help like professional development, specific trainings, and certifications. A few of the things you might choose to do:
- Become a Peer Recovery Support Specialist with Recovery Corps
- Earn a master’s degree and an elementary teaching license through the University of Minnesota’s Grow Your Own Teacher (MNGOT) program at little to no cost (available to Reading Corps members who have a bachelor’s degree)
- Take advantage of a network of more than 600 private, public, and nonprofit employers that especially value the skills AmeriCorps service helps build
Does AmeriCorps help people get connected to a professional network?
AmeriCorps offers a way to get to know people in a new industry so they can learn about your skills and vouch for you in the future. And after serving, members are connected to a network of AmeriCorps alumni across the country who can help them find the next step in their careers.
How does AmeriCorps compare to a summer internship?
Both provide opportunities to grow and learn new skills. Some summer internships are completely unpaid – but with AmeriCorps, each member receives a living stipend. AmeriCorps also has the added benefit of giving you a way to give back to your community. Read more about how AmeriCorps compares to an internship here.
How to Apply
I’m interested! What should I do next?
In Minnesota, each program has its own application process, so first you will need to decide which program you’re interested in applying to. You can start by reviewing our program list or taking this service quiz. Once you’ve decided, you can start the program application on the website of the program you want to apply to. You’ll find links on the program list.
Our team can help you figure out what program is the right fit for you, so if you’re unsure or have any questions, just fill out our contact form.
How do I choose which program is right for me?
First, it can be helpful to reflect on the kind of experience you’re looking for. Do you want to serve youth or adults? Full-time or part-time? For a year or just for a summer? Once you really know what you want, you’ll be better able to choose.
We know there are many program options available, so we’ve listed them all on our programs page. If you’re not sure which one might be a good fit, take our program fit-finder quiz – it asks you some questions people thinking about joining AmeriCorps often ask and then shares which programs would be the best match.
The programs listed on our site are not the only AmeriCorps opportunities available in Minnesota. There are also positions offered through other streams of service (like NCCC, AmeriCorps Seniors, and VISTA), as well as AmeriCorps opportunities in other states.
When do applications usually open?
We help promote positions in many programs, so there are usually positions open for one of them! Most applications open in the spring, others in fall or winter (for example, Conservation Corps begins in January and has open applications in the summer and fall). Check the program’s website for the most up-to-date information on their application deadlines and currently open positions.
ServeMinnesota sends out periodic emails to people interested in serving with AmeriCorps with deadlines and information on programs. Sign up for Recruitment Emails to get reminders and information about open applications.
When do positions usually start?
Positions have varying start dates, depending on the specific program. In general, the following is true:
- Most year-round positions begin in September, October, or January
- Half-term positions and Conservation Corps year-long positions start in January
- Summer positions begin in late spring/early summer, usually late May or early June
Can I apply and plan to start my service later in the year?
Yes. It depends on the program, but some programs allow you to apply in the summer and ask to start in October or January. If you’re applying to serve for a whole year, start dates are usually in the fall or in January. Some programs also offer half-terms starting in January.
Additional Information
Where can I find information for ServeMinnesota grantees?
Check out our Grant Funding page or reach out to grants@serveminnesota.org. You can sign up for updates on funding opportunities here.
I’m interested in supporting AmeriCorps programs in Minnesota with a donation. Where should I start?
Thank you for supporting AmeriCorps! You can donate to our programs through our donation form.
I’m applying for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. What should I know about filling out the application?
To apply for PSLF, AmeriCorps recommends that you do the following:
- Attach a completely blank PSLF employment certification form in an email to AmeriCorpsForms@americorps.gov and include your NSPID in the body of the email. Your NSPID can be found in your AmeriCorps account underneath your name. Do not fill anything out on the form.
- Within 7-10 business days, the National Service Trust will provide you with the completed Employer Information section (section 4) by email. Make sure the email in your MyAmeriCorps account is updated correctly, as the National Service Trust uses this as a source of contact information.
- Once you receive the form back from AmeriCorps, you will need to fill out sections 1 and 2. This may include both the correct EIN and email address. Regardless of which program you served in, the correct EIN number to use on the form is 520971471 and the email address is AmeriCorpsForms@americorps.gov.
- Once the form is complete, you will need to either mail it to the address listed on the form or upload the form by logging into StudentAid.gov and visit My Activity. For more details, see page 9 of the form.
Please do not submit the form through the Federal Student Aid Office. Instead, use the process outlined above.
Note: Below is the original FAQ text, most of which is out of date. We updated the FAQ in 2025 for accuracy and user friendliness.
What is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps is the United States’ system for people to serve communities across the country — from classrooms to the outdoors to everything in between. In AmeriCorps, you can learn and apply new skills as you give back to your community, state and country through public service. Since its creation in 1994, more than a million people have served in AmeriCorps.
What do AmeriCorps members do?
People who join AmeriCorps (called “members”) provide direct service in the areas of education, disaster services, economic opportunity, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and veterans and military families. Here in Minnesota, there are hundreds of opportunities to get involved.
As an AmeriCorps member, you can:
- Help children become confident readers
- Prepare students for high school math
- Help serve people in recovery from substance use disorder
- Tutor and mentor disadvantaged youth
- Build and restore affordable housing
- Teach computer and employment skills
- Clean parks and streams
- And much more!
Where do AmeriCorps members serve?
Members can serve with nonprofit organizations, state and local units of government, public and charter schools, institutions of higher education, Indigenous tribes and more. AmeriCorps members are serving across the state in 82 of Minnesota’s 87 counties.
Click here for a list of all of our AmeriCorps programs.
What is ServeMinnesota and how is it related to AmeriCorps?
ServeMinnesota is the Minnesota State Commission for National and Community Service, meaning we oversee all of the state programs with AmeriCorps members. We are responsible for awarding Federal AmeriCorps and State funds to support high quality AmeriCorps programs that have proven, measurable impact on critical community needs across Minnesota. In addition, ServeMinnesota provides monitoring, training and technical assistance to AmeriCorps programs in Minnesota.
What qualifications do you need to have to be an AmeriCorps member?
Minimum Eligibility Requirements:
• You must be a U.S. citizen or a national or legal permanent resident of the U.S.
• You must be at least 17 years old, although some service opportunities require an individual to be at least 18. For most programs, there are no upper age limits.
• Some programs require experience, a certain level of educational achievement or skills in certain areas.
All of our programs offer training to help you feel confident and prepared to serve.
How much do AmeriCorps members earn?
Members serving in full‐time positions receive a minimum living allowance of at least $16,000 during their year of service.
This living allowance is to be evenly distributed over the member’s service term and is not tied directly to the hours served (i.e. not an hourly wage). Members also serve in part‐time and summer positions and receive a pro-rated living allowance. Members serving in a full‐time capacity are eligible for health insurance and may be eligible for child care reimbursements depending on family size and income.
After completing their terms of service, full‐time members receive an education award of up to $6,345 (based on 2021 rates) to pay for higher education or qualified student loans. Part-time members receive a pro‐rated award. Federal Student loans are eligible for forbearance during service and the accrued interest will be repaid in addition to the Education Award.
How much is the education award?
The education award for full-time service in 2021-22 program year is $6,345. The education award for part-time positions is prorated. AmeriCorps members can earn up to the value of two full-time awards through multiple terms of service. Learn more.
How do I apply for AmeriCorps?
Each AmeriCorps program in Minnesota has a different application, deadline and hiring process. Review our programs list and if you’re interested in a specific program, go to that program’s website to learn more about how to apply. You can also reach out to our recruitment team with any questions!
How can the education award be used? What if I'm not in college?
You can use the education award to pay for tuition for associate, undergraduate or graduate studies at a qualified school. There are many other ways it can be used, too, though:
- Books, college fees and other educational necessities
- Online courses at approved college and university programs
- Purchase a laptop that you will use in school (note that the computer would have to be purchased through the college — for example, from a technology lease-to-own program)
- Pay off existing student loans (just make sure these are qualified federal loans rather than private bank loans)
- A combination of current educational expenses and repay qualified student loans
- Study-abroad program expenses
- Coursework in a specialized skill – coding, EMT training, sign language certification, videography and photography, certain teaching certifications and many other programs, often offered at community colleges
- Fees associated with an apprenticeship program
If you are 55 or older and not planning to continue your education, you can transfer the education award to your child, stepchild, foster child or grandchild for any and all of these educational expenses, too. If you transfer the award, that person has 10 years from date you completed your service to use it. (Also, you can only transfer once to one person, but you don’t have to transfer the whole thing — so in theory, you might be able to take a class with your child or grandchild for free!)
Plus, some colleges and universities even will match your AmeriCorps Education Award. In Minnesota, this includes the University of Minnesota – Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Augsburg College and Concordia University-St. Paul, Macalester College, Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and University of St. Thomas. No industry-wide standard exists for matching awards; some schools match the amount of the education award, and some schools offer scholarships in set amounts that remain constant regardless of the amount of education award earned. Some institutions offer the scholarships on a continuing basis, while others offer one-time-only awards. Check with your college or university to learn their policy and how they apply the matching funds.
Can I defer college loan payments while serving in AmeriCorps?
Members who have federal student loans may qualify for forbearance, or postponement, during their term of service. After you complete your term of service, the National Service Trust will pay part or all of the interest that accrues during forbearance. This is in addition to your education award.
Does AmeriCorps pay for health insurance?
Yes. Members who serve 35 hours a week or more receive individual health care benefits with 100 percent of the monthly premium covered.
How can I take a gap year in AmeriCorps after high school?
Many high school graduates take a gap year to serve in AmeriCorps between high school graduation and college (or whatever is next). Do you want to learn more? Watch our video about Why You Should Do a Gap Year in AmeriCorps or read about a high school graduate who took an AmeriCorps gap year after graduation.
Can I serve in AmeriCorps part-time? Or in the summer only?
Yes. Some AmeriCorps programs offer summer-only positions. Many programs offer part-time and full-time opportunities.
How can serving in AmeriCorps help build my skills?
Similar to an internship, we offer service opportunities that will build your professional skills and knowledge in a wide array of areas. Some of the top areas of expertise to build through service are in education, public policy, health policy, human resources, technology, the environment, and more. No matter which program you choose, AmeriCorps will help you develop the soft skills that employers are looking for – e.g., teamwork, leadership, verbal and written communication, problem solving, and adaptability.
Which organizations can apply for AmeriCorps program grants?
Multi-state, state, local and tribal grantees recruit, train and manage AmeriCorps members in direct service and capacity building activities to address unmet community needs in six focus areas: education, healthy futures, clean energy/environment, veterans and military families, disaster services, and economic opportunity. AmeriCorps members help organizations expand services, build capacity, develop partnerships, leverage resources, create sustainable programs, and recruit and manage other volunteers. Each year, AmeriCorps members serve with thousands of nonprofit, faith-based, and community organizations, helping them expand their reach and better meet their mission. These powerful service experiences also help AmeriCorps members develop lifelong civic engagement.
Are you part of an organization that would like to apply for an AmeriCorps grant? Please visit our “Grants” section to learn about the requirements, application process and deadlines.
