International application info

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

when does the NGM year start? When does NGM end?

NGM typically starts in late August and ends in mid-July.

At what step does the visa application require payment?

After submitting your application, you will have an interview with NGM Staff.

After getting approved to begin your visa process, you will be asked to pay your $2000 deposit.

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.

Once you are approved to start the visa process and pay your $2,000 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 NGM 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. NGM 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, NGM Staff will clearly explain them in your acceptance information.

Does NGM provide scholarships?

Unfortunately, NGM does not have a scholarship fund at this time.

We hope to have one available in the future. Please share any financial concerns you have during your interview with NGM Staff so we can help you think through a realistic plan for funding your year.

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

NGM 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, NGM Staff can help you think through a realistic amount based on your situation and country of origin.

What will NGM 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. NGM will cover the rest of the expedited fee and other visa costs that may come up. The NGM 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 NGM 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 NGM 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 NGM.

Throughout the NGM year, what costs will NGM cover?

NGM 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 late December to early January. You have the option to go home for the break or stay with a host family of another NGM member. NGM 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 NGM 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 in the NGM program?

NGM 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. NGM Staff will explain your visa conditions so you understand what is and is not allowed.