Frequently Asked Questions

What if I want to go overseas for less than one year?
Missionary associate assignments are for one to two years. The MAPS program offers shorter opportunities of 11 months or less.

QUALIFICATIONS

What if I am not 18?  
You will need to wait to apply for the missionary associate program until you are 18. However before age 18, you can still experience missions through AIM trips.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen or able to work in the U.S.?
Due to governmental restrictions we are only able to process people who are able to earn an income in the United States. We recommend you contact the national church in your country for further information about their missions opportunities.

What if I do not attend an AG church?
Not attending an AG church does not automatically disqualify you for the missionary associate program. This issue is determined on a case-by-case basis according to input from the district you live in. We recommend you contact that AG district for further direction. For contact information for your district office, please click here.

What if I have debt of more than $250 per month?
We would require that you be under the $250 level by the time you leave for the field. Many associates work out the details of paying off credit card debt and selling a home or car as they raise funds to leave for the field.

What if I have school loans?
Most school loans can be deferred during the time of your assignment. Our office will be able to provide verification of your assignment and financial status if necessary. Contact your lending agency for further information.

What if I am divorced?
Being divorced does not automatically disqualify you for the missionary associate program. Each situation is considered on a case-by-case basis.

What if I do not have ministerial credentials?
Credentials are not needed to serve a missionary associate assignment. This program is specifically designed for lay people.

OPPORTUNITIES

What if I want to serve in a country or position that is not listed?
Even if a country or specific ministry is not listed, it may still have need. We will seek out placement in the country and position of your desire when you apply. If your placement request is not possible, we will contact you as well as seek placement close to the original request.

GETTING STARTED

How long will it take before I am on the field?
It takes 2 to 4 months for approval of an assignment. Then, on average, it takes about 7 months to raise the budget, attend Pre-Field Orientation, and secure a visa.

Will I be placed in the country I request?
We will seek placement in the country and position of your desire. We will contact you if placement is not possible and seek to find placement for you close to your request.

What will happen once I am approved?
You will be required to raise your budget, attend a Pre-Field Orientation, and obtain final clearance before leaving for the field. For more information, please visit ONCE APPROVED.

COSTS

When can I start raising my funds?
You will be able to start raising your funds once final approval is given. At that time we will open a World Missions account for you where support for your assignment can be sent.