How to Apply - please read through all of the Summer Camp USA section of the website before applying so you are familiar with how the programme operates.

How to apply

We aim to provide you with excellent service throughout the application process. If you have queries at any stage please contact our experienced and friendly Summer Camps Team by calling 020 7251 3448 or email camps@bunac.org.uk.

Step 1 - Register

Your first stage is to register with BUNAC. This will create your BUNAC Account where you can complete a Summer Camp USA application form, upload a photo, book an interview and pay the first instalment of your registration fee. You will also be able to read the programme Terms and Conditions and download and print the reference form to give to your two chosen referees.

Step 2 - Interview

Attend your interview on the confirmed day, bringing your application form, second instalment of the registration fee and other supporting documents with you.

Step 3 - Track your application

Check your BUNAC Account regularly to track the progress of your application and to ensure we have received all your supporting documents. Acceptance onto the programme will then be advised and we will start looking for a suitable camp for you (or forward your dossier directly to your camp if you already have a job or referral).

Step 4 - Placement confirmation

After a placement is confirmed, BUNAC will guide you through the process of paying the final instalment of your registration fee, booking your flight and insurance and applying for your visa via your BUNAC Account.

Flights

BUNAC will select your outbound flight date according to the start date on your contract and the location of the camp. Westbound flights are generally from London to New York. If your camp is situated a long way from New York and in another part of America or Canada, you may possibly fly directly to an airport closer to the camp.

You will probably travel on the same flight as other participants thus giving you the opportunity to meet with fellow counsellors before you arrive in the US.

The Summer Camp USA flight package also includes:

  • Your first night’s accommodation*
  • BUNAC support services in the UK and USA
  • Informative orientation talk*
  • T-shirt and phone card.

*May vary for those not arriving in New York.

Travel to your camp

On arrival in New York, you will be given route and ticket information for getting to camp. There is a brief orientation meeting after breakfast the next morning and then you are finally on the way to camp!

If you are not flying into New York, BUNAC staff in London will give you specific information on how to get to camp before you go.

Guarantors

If you are accepted by BUNAC, you will need to provide a guarantor, normally a parent or guardian. Your guarantor should be a permanent resident in the UK or Ireland and is required to protect the costs which BUNAC has incurred on your behalf before you arrive at camp.

If you don’t complete your contract and leave camp early for whatever reason, your guarantor is liable to pay BUNAC the costs which BUNAC has incurred on your behalf. You would only be paid for the days you have worked at camp. The costs include your airfare and any other costs which BUNAC would no longer be able to collect from camp. You or your guarantor would be liable for the pro-rated portion of this amount. Further information is provided in the programme Terms and Conditions and Loan and Guarantee Agreement form, available once you have registered or on request.