Intern & Volunteer Abroad in Mexico

Applying is simple — and free! Once you submit your online application, we’ll send you a link to schedule a quick 30-minute call with our Program Director. Think of this as a chance for both sides to connect: we’ll learn about your goals and background, and you’ll see if our program is the right fit for your adventure abroad.

If it’s a match, you’ll receive your official Letter of Acceptance (perfect to share with your academic advisor if you’re seeking credit!). You’ll then confirm your spot and schedule a second, longer interview. This is where you can bring all your big questions, dive into details, and get excited about what’s ahead.

Next, our team checks your references and sends your profile to our trusted on-the-ground staff in your destination city. They’ll present your file to our network of companies in your chosen field — and once the best fit selects you, your volunteer placement becomes official! You’ll sign a contract, and so will your host organization.

Meanwhile, we’ll arrange your housing (usually a shared apartment, with homestay options in some locations) and get you enrolled in a two-week intensive language course to kick off your experience abroad.

Our goal is always to have your housing and volunteer placement finalized at least 30 days before you depart so you feel confident and prepared.

For students who apply later in the process, sometimes your volunteer placement may still be in progress when you arrive. If that’s the case, don’t worry — you’ll start with your language program and settle into housing right away, while our team continues finalizing your placement. You’ll still be fully supported every step of the way until you’re matched with the right host company or organization.

Yes – You will have your own room in a shared apartment with other Adelante candidates/international students or you will have your own room in a shared Guesthouse (this option typically offers a better chance to have Mexican roommates, not other US students). In both options, plan on doing your own food shopping and your own cooking, quite an eye-opener that first time in a Mexican grocery store! A refundable housing deposit is required during your first week in country. This deposit will be returned to you as long as the housing is in the same condition as when you arrived. The apartments and shared guesthouses are in central Oaxaca, in working neighborhoods, near to public transit, grocery stores, laundry mats, bars, cafes, etc. All apartments & shared guesthouses are fully furnished, with bedding, fully equipped kitchens, sheets, towels, pots, pans and Wi-Fi. Some of our housing options have washing machines available, some do not.

For the first two weeks, you are enrolled in an Intensive Spanish Language course for 4 hours per day, 5 days per week (approximately 40 hours). This course takes place at a prestigious private language institute, in a great location, and your level is determined by a placement test. Each level course is no more than 10 students.

For Mexico, we suggest approximately $125 USD per week, and this covers normal expenses like groceries, bus money, some going out and one or two nearby excursions a month. The price goes up when you start going out at night more and when you begin to travel further away (which we do encourage!).

Yes – Carlos Ortega, our director abroad and a Mexican national, works to ensure that each candidate has an educational and fun experience in Mexico. He is highly involved in the different cultures, dialects and art forms of Oaxacan communities, both in the city and the outlying indigenous areas. You will be meeting with Carlos during your first week of classes and before your work assignment starts. Carlos is accustomed to working with groups from abroad, speaks English fluently and is an extremely good liaison between long-term visitors to Oaxaca and their new “home”.

Yes, Adelante’s program is based in Oaxaca, a colonial city known for its welcoming community, killer year-round climate, and rich cultural life. All housing is located in central, working neighborhoods near public transit, grocery stores, and cafes. Adelante’s on-site team is available to support you throughout your program.

For a deeper look at safety in Oaxaca, read our blog: Is Mexico Safe for Internships in 2026?

No, internships and volunteer placements in Mexico through Adelante are unpaid. They are designed to provide meaningful international work experience, professional development, and cultural immersion rather than financial compensation. The skills and global perspective you gain make for a powerful addition to your resume and career.

Adelante offers flexible program lengths ranging from 1 to 6 months, with all programs beginning the first Monday of each month, year-round. If you’re interested in extending your time in Mexico, we encourage you to reach out to the Adelante team directly to discuss your options based on availability and program parameters.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your program. Adelante accepts candidates of all nationalities, and you are responsible for determining the visa requirements for your home country. For programs longer than 90 days, a student visa may be required. Adelante will guide you through the process and provide the necessary documentation, such as a Letter of Acceptance, to support your application.

We recommend starting the visa process at least 2 months before your departure date. Visit Adelante’s Visa Information page for more details.

Adelante’s Mexico programs are available year-round. Oaxaca has a killer climate year-round, so there is truly no bad time to go. We recommend applying at least 60 to 90 days before your desired start date, though late applications are accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Oaxaca offers incredible experiences beyond your placement. You can be in the city one moment and pine tree-filled mountains within half an hour. Other nearby highlights include Hierve el Agua, a stunning stone waterfall and mineral water pools, El Tule, home to the world’s widest tree, and the ancient Zapotec pyramids. Oaxaca is also known for its vibrant food culture, local artisan markets, Alebrije figures, Black Pottery, and day trips to nearby beach destinations.

After you’ve been accepted into the program, our team in Mexico carefully matches you with a host company based on your background, goals, and interests. Your internship placement will be finalized at least 30 days before your departure date, giving you plenty of time to prepare for your experience in Oaxaca.