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What level of Spanish do I need?
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You need to have a GCSE level or equivalent in Spanish. As part of the application we ask you to write a letter in Spanish to your host family and this will generally give you a good indication of your language knowledge. We certainly don’t expect participants to be fluent before they leave (you most likely will be when you return!) but it is important that you have a certain level of knowledge to build upon as you may often find yourself in situations where no one will be able to speak English.
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Why do I need an Orientation Interview?
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We ask all applicants to attend an Orientation Interview. It is not a formal interview, but a chance for us to get to know more about you and your reasons for volunteering. We will discuss the types of projects you are interested in and issues such as health and security to help prepare you for your time in Costa Rica. It is also an opportunity for you to ask us any questions you might have. If you would like to apply and cannot travel to London for an interview, please call us on 020 7251 3472 to discuss your situation.
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If my application is unsuccessful will I get my deposit back?
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If BUNAC rejects your application at any stage you will receive a full refund of your programme deposit. We have a 7 day cooling off period, so if you feel that you are not suited to the programme and you contact us within 7 days of attending the Orientation Interview you can cancel and receive a full refund less £35 administration fee. More information regarding cancellation refunds is included within the Terms and Conditions which can be printed with the application form.
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What is a police check?
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As part of the application process you must provide a police check or “Subject Access”. This is a summary of data which is held about you on the National Police Computer (NPC). It will cost approximately £10 and takes between 30 and 40 days to be issued. You can usually download the application forms from your local police force website (look for links for “Freedom of Information” on their website). Your local police station should also be able to provide you with relevant forms over the counter. Once your Subject Access has been issued, please send the original to BUNAC. If you already hold a CRB from an existing or recent employer issued within 3 months we can accept this as an alternative to the Subject Access.
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Can I book my own flights?
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If you do not wish to take one of BUNAC’s group flight departures then you can arrange your own travel. We must see proof of outbound and inbound travel before your departure. You must make sure you arrive in San Jose in time for the arrival orientation programme that you undertake with other volunteers. Return flights must be within 90 days to meet immigration regulations. You can extend your flights and visa whilst in Costa Rica with the help of our host organisation. You will also need a machine readable passport if travelling via the USA.
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Do I need to apply for a visa?
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British or Irish nationals do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica; however you will need one to work. During your orientation you will be taken to the Immigration Department to apply for your work permit. This is valid for 90 days, but can be extended with the help of our local host.
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How many people take part in the programme?
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Numbers vary however the maximum number on each departure is approximately ten, the minimum could be one or two. You will be joined by other international volunteers when in Costa Rica
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Do I have to go to the arrival orientation?
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The orientation is covered in the programme cost and it is vital that all participants attend. It is considered to be an integral part of your trip. Our local host will introduce you to the country and its culture; they will discuss volunteering, health and safety issues; they will also take you on a number of excursions. The orientation will provide you with useful information, interesting tours and enable you to meet other volunteers on the programme.
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Can I choose my placement?
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Due to the nature of the local projects we work with, unfortunately we cannot guarantee specific placements for participants. However, we try to match your skills and preferences as closely as possible to a suitable placement and encourage volunteers to be as flexible as possible, open to new experiences and prepared to lend a hand where necessary.
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Will I be placed with other volunteers?
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It is possible that you may share accommodation or be working at the same project as another volunteer but we cannot guarantee this as it is based on individual placement preferences and availability. Ultimately BUNAC's volunteer programmes offer a lot of support, but they are intended to be independent experiences where the individual can gain a considerable amount.
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Can I go for less than the required programme minimum?
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Volunteer Costa Rica is a programme that runs for two or three months. We believe that a volunteer would not be able to accomplish much or feel satisfied with their participation on a project if they were there for a period shorter than the required minimum.
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Will there be chance to travel during my stay?
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During your placement you will generally have weekends free to travel. We encourage volunteers to take time out either before or at the end of their placement to explore more of the country. It is quite common for volunteers to travel together.
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What medical advice does BUNAC offer?
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We provide a medical leaflet for Costa Rica with recommended injections for you to have. Our programme Handbook also includes practical health and safety guidelines. As a programme participant you must visit your GP as soon as possible to receive expert health advice. We will provide you with medical form which must be completed by you and your GP who must ultimately declare that you are fit to participate on this programme. The cost of the medical can vary; on average you should expect to pay up to £70. As the types of inoculations will vary depending on your destination and also your personal medical history it is very difficult to provide a guide to the typical cost. However, please be aware that whilst some inoculations are relatively cheap others (specifically anti malarials) can be very expensive. Please discuss your specific needs with your GP.
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How much spending money should I take?
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We recommend that you anticipate spending £175 per month whilst you are volunteering. However, if you intend to travel at weekends or have plans for post programme travels we recommend that you take extra.
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Can I extend my stay?
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In most cases it will be possible to extend your volunteer programme whilst you are away. Specific arrangements are made through our local partner and are subject to the availability of accommodation and projects.
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