Last Chance to Be…

VSO Application to Departure Timeline

I thought it would be handy for any potential VSOers to know the timeline of events after their application to VSO. This may only apply in the UK. I will try to be specific where possible but VSO may change things so it’s just a rough guide. Also the application process varies massively from person to person.

Application to VSO - I did this online and over a few days

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Two weeks between application and invitation in my case

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Invitation to an Assessment Day at Putney

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Few weeks/months

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Assessment Day

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Two weeks

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Confirmation of Acceptance

Arrange and Complete Doctor’s Examination

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Two weeks roughly

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Assignment of a VPA (VSO Placement Adviser)

Placement Analysis Form (kind of like a CV for potential employers)

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Variable from a few weeks to a few months

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Placement Offers

Start stage 1 of Vaccinations

Fundraising (optional)

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Preparing for Change Course (2 day residential)

Acceptance of Placement

Stage 2 (Country Specific Vaccinations)

Any necessary Dental Treatment

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Placement Confirmation

Volunteers and Development (2 Day residential)

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Skills for Working in Development (5 Day residential)

Placement Specific Training

Self-Briefing

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Total 3-8 Months Average

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Departure

Well that gives you a rough idea, in amongst all this might be, quitting your job, selling or renting your house and car, packing all your stuff into somebody’s loft, buying various amounts of useful bits and bobs to take with you. In my case, I applied at the end of June 2006 and by mid July was accepted. I had a placement arranged by the end of August. In October I found out my leaving date - 26th November.

One other thing that’s probably worth mentioning - although the application process can take 3-8 months or more, do not plan for three. Plan for as long as possible, otherwise those last few months at work will be painful (or costly if you quit too early).