African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) 2026: How to Apply and Eligibility Guide @YVC) 2026: How to Apply and Eligibility Guide

Overview

The African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) 2026 is a flagship youth leadership programme designed to empower young professionals across Africa by recruiting, training, and deploying talented African youth as professional volunteers for 12 months.

Eligibility

• Citizen of an African Union Member State (living in Africa or the diaspora)
• Aged between 18 and 35 years
• Hold a post-secondary qualification (TVET, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or equivalent)
• Available to commit to 12 months of volunteer service
• Willing to live and work in another African country
• Proficient in at least one AU working language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, or Kiswahili)
• Have at least one year of volunteering experience and one year of professional work experience

Benefits

• Opportunity to engage in high-level African Union programmes and policies
• Networking opportunities with young leaders across Africa
• Return airfare to the country of deployment
• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Health insurance coverage
• Official AU Service Passport
• Separation allowance upon successful completion
• Access to training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities

How to Apply

Interested applicants must complete their applications through the official African Union careers portal by following these steps:

1. Visit the AU careers website and locate the AU-YVC vacancy
2. Create an account or log in if already registered
3. Complete personal information
4. Upload the required documents:
• Updated CV (maximum 3 pages using the AU template)
• Copy of passport or national ID
• Highest academic qualification certificate
• Recommendation letter (not older than two years)
5. Submit a cover letter answering specific questions:
• Why do you want to join AU-YVC?
• What makes you the best candidate?
• What skills will you contribute?

Important: The African Union requires all applicants to use its official CV template. Applications that do not follow this requirement will not be considered.

Deadline

• Closing Date: April 10, 2026 (11:59 PM EAT)

Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.