International application info

Updated October 2026

Below is the international application process. Refer to this to understand the steps necessary to join the Next Gen Mission program.

Scroll below the charts to see any frequently asked questions.

Below are the costs for international applicants. While there is no application fee, there is a $2000 USD down payment to help cover a portion of the visa costs.

Frequently asked questions

Updated October 2026

when does the Next Gen Mission year start? When does Mission end?

NGM typically starts in early September and ends in mid-June. The dates are subject to change each year.

At what step does the visa application require payment?

After submitting your application, you will have an interview with Mission Staff. If approved to begin your visa process, you will be asked to pay the $2000 deposit. Although this can be paid in installments, a minimum of $510 USD is required before your visa application process can officially begin.

How long does the visa process take?

 Visa timelines can vary depending on your country, the U.S. embassy schedule, and how quickly you submit documents.

          Once you are approved to start the visa process and pay your $2000 deposit, it can often take several months for everything to be processed. Because of this, we encourage you to apply as early as possible and respond quickly to any requests from Mission Staff or the legal team.

Who pays for my flights to and from the United States?

In most cases, participants are responsible for their own travel to the U.S. at the beginning of the program and back home at the end of the program, and any flights required for winter break. Mission covers transportation during the program (with the same exceptions already mentioned: injury, holiday, family emergency, etc.).

          If there are any exceptions for your specific year or region, Mission Staff will clearly explain them in your acceptance information.

Does Mission provide scholarships?

Yes! You can ask for more details about this during your initial interview with Mission Staff. Scholarship opportunities are available for anyone coming from abroad, but not everyone will be awarded a scholarship. Scholarship amounts are also weighed based on which region you are coming from.

How much personal spending money should I plan for each month?

Mission covers your transportation (within the program), lodging, and food during the program, but you may still have personal expenses such as:

  • Medical insurance

  • Phone plan

  • Personal hygiene items (except feminine products)

  • Clothing and shoes

  • Occasional outings, coffee, gifts, etc.

          The amount you need will depend on your lifestyle, but many participants find it helpful to set a simple monthly budget. During your interview, Mission Staff can help you think through a realistic amount based on your situation and country of origin.

What will the Mission program cover and what will I need to cover in the visa process?

You will have to submit a $2000 deposit. This will cover the visa petition fee, legal fees, the embassy interview fee, and a portion of the expedited fee. Mission will cover the rest of the expedited fee and other visa costs that may come up. The Mission Staff will go over this with you in more detail during your interview.

What happens if my visa is denied?

If your visa is denied, please contact Mission Staff immediately and share any written explanation of rejection from the embassy. In some cases, it may be possible to re-apply or submit additional information, but this is not guaranteed.

          Every situation is different, so Mission Staff will review your case with you and explain what next steps, if any, are possible. Unfortunately, visa decisions are ultimately made by the U.S. government, not by Next Gen Mission.


Throughout the Mission year, what costs will the Mission program cover?

Mission will cover transportation (excluding travel home due to injury, holiday, family emergency, etc), lodging, and food costs during the program. 

You will need to cover your own medical insurance, personal hygiene items (except for feminine products), phone plans, and clothes. A general rule of thumb: if something only pertains to you and your benefit, you will most likely have to cover it.

As an international participant, what would I do during winter break?

Winter break is typically from mid-December to early January. You have the option to go home for the break or stay with a host family of another Mission member. Mission Staff can also help you find a place to stay during the break if needed.

Do I need to speak fluent English to join the program?

You do not need “perfect” or native-level English, but you must be able to participate in group discussions and communicate your needs in English.

          Your interview with Mission Staff will be conducted in English so we can help assess whether your language level will allow you to thrive during the year.

Can I work or study while I am on the Mission program?

Next Gen Mission is a full-time program. Your schedule will include training, ministry, travel, and team life. Because of this, you should not plan to work another job or enroll in full-time studies during the program year.

          Your visa type may also limit or restrict outside employment. Mission Staff will explain your visa conditions so you understand what is and is not allowed.