What is the European Solidarity Corps?
The European Solidarity Corps (ESC, formerly EVS — European Voluntary Service) is a European Union programme that allows young people aged 18–30 to volunteer in a host organisation in another European country for a period of 2 to 12 months.
Unlike a Erasmus+ youth exchange (which lasts 6–21 days), ESC is a long-term commitment where you become a genuine part of the host organisation's daily life and work. You're not a tourist — you're a volunteer with real responsibilities and a real impact.
Travel
Flights/train to and from your destination. Return trip included.
Accommodation
Host organisation arranges and covers your housing for the full duration.
Meals
Food budget provided — either meals at the host or a food allowance.
Pocket Money
Monthly pocket money (amount depends on cost of living in host country).
Insurance
Full health, accident and liability insurance throughout the placement.
Language Course
Access to the EU's Online Linguistic Support (OLS) course in the host language.
ESC vs KA152: what's the difference?
| Aspect | KA152 (Exchange) | ESC (Volunteering) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6–21 days | 2–12 months |
| Group or individual | Group (10–60 people) | Individual |
| Living situation | With the group | Integrated in local community |
| Format | Intensive workshops | Daily work + non-formal learning |
| Pocket money | No | Yes (monthly) |
| Language support | No formal support | OLS language course included |
| Best for | First experience abroad | Deep cultural immersion |
Types of ESC volunteering with CLAVE
CLAVE offers two ESC tracks:
- Local (Valencia/Alicante): Volunteer in CLAVE's own programmes and community projects in Spain. Ideal for European young people who want to experience Spanish culture while contributing to youth work.
- International (across Europe): CLAVE sends Spanish-based young people to partner organisations in France, Germany, Poland, Portugal, Italy and other European countries.
Who can apply?
- Age 18–30 at the start of the placement
- Resident in an ESC participating country
- Motivated and available for the full placement period
- No specific qualifications required
Young people with fewer opportunities (disabilities, socio-economic difficulties, from rural areas) are a priority and receive additional support grants.
"Six months in Valencia with CLAVE was the best decision I've ever made. I went as a volunteer, I came back as a youth worker. Now I run my own programme in Poland."
— ESC Volunteer, Poland → Valencia (6 months)
Start your ESC journey
Check CLAVE's current ESC placements and apply. We'll support you through the whole process.