Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend consulting your GP or a travel medicine specialist for personalized advice on pre-trip vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis. Additionally, reviewing relevant health information from sources like the CDC can provide valuable insights. For further inquiries, please reach out to us at hello@goelective.com.

Absolutely. GoElective prioritizes your safety during your time abroad. We carefully select countries that are stable, secure, and safe for international healthcare students. We regularly monitor government travel advice for not only the destinations we operate in but also their neighboring countries to ensure your peace of mind. For more information, visit our safety and security page.

Pack comfortable and versatile clothing suitable for both casual and semi-casual occasions. Consider the local climate and cultural norms when selecting your attire. We recommend carrying warm clothing for colder evenings, particularly during the middle months of the year. This will be covered in the pre-trip sessions.

In addition to clothing and personal toiletries, we recommend packing essential items such as malaria tablets, adapter plugs, insect repellent, and a journal to document your experience can also be a valuable addition to your packing list. We will provide a checklist during the pre-trip sessions.

As a precaution, we recommend drinking bottled water throughout your stay to avoid waterborne illnesses. Clean distilled water is readily available in dispensers in the residence.

While abroad, it's essential to take precautions such as carrying a copy of your passport, avoiding walking alone at night, and refraining from wearing excessive jewelry. Our orientation program covers additional safety tips, and our teams are available to address any concerns throughout your stay.

If you're enrolled in a premed, medical, nursing or dental program, or have recently completed a healthcare degree, you automatically qualify for a placement with GoElective. If you haven't contacted us yet, simply submit an inquiry, and our team will guide you through the process.

Yes, slots are limited and fill up rapidly. We maintain a controlled number of students in each department to uphold the quality of our clinical placements. As spaces fill up fast, we encourage you to book as soon as possible to secure your spot.

We recommend registering at least 9 months in advance to secure your preferred destination and allow time for preparation. However, last-minute bookings can be arranged within a shorter timeframe.

The non-refundable reservation deposit covers essential admin and pre-arrival logistics such as processing your paperwork, accommodation, and provide pre-trip support. It also allows you to create a "My TripAccount" for managing your program details.

No, you can spread the cost of your placement by paying in installments, with the full balance due 30 days before your start date.

Absolutely. With our flexible booking policy, you can make changes to your travel dates up to 90 days before your departure without incurring any administration fees.

Yes, we can accommodate requests to be placed together in the same department. This is subject to availability.

Our houses accommodate between 5 and 10 people and up to 40 students per destination. We maintain a controlled number of participants to uphold the quality of our internships. It's, therefore, advisable to reserve your slots early.

Shortly before your placement begins, you'll have access to MyTrip, where you can see information about your fellow interns. While placement start dates may vary, you'll be living together during your time abroad.

MyTrip is your online placement planner, containing all the information relevant to your placement or trip. You can upload your details, track your progress, and receive reminders for upcoming tasks.

Placement hours typically run Monday to Friday, with options to explore weekend or night shifts if desired.

Simply provide your flight details, and our staff will arrange airport pickup. We'll be there to greet you upon arrival and ensure a smooth transition to the house.

Yes, you can use your phone since we have Wi-Fi connection in the residence and a pocket Mi-Fi that can be used outside the residence. You could also opt to purchasing a local SIM card.

Yes, however, this is is subject to our terms and conditions. Visit our Terms and Conditions for more details.

Our placement advisors can help you determine the best destination for your specialty, ensuring you maximize your learning opportunities.

In overseas hospitals, challenges such as limited supplies or equipment for diagnostics may arise. While such conditions may present difficulties, they also offer rewarding learning experiences, showcasing medical professionals' resilience and adaptability in adverse circumstances.

Participants typically spend 5-7 hours in the hospital, with downtime in the afternoons for activities such as volunteering in a local school, language lessons, global health tutorials, and sightseeing. Weekends are free for excursions, safaris, or relaxation, though participants may choose to work in the hospital during this time.

Patient interaction during your placement is at the discretion of your supervisor clinical knowledge and or experience of training and experience. Participants will not be expected to perform any tasks beyond their training. However, opportunities for additional patient interaction may arise after adequate orientation.

To maximize your shadowing experience, be assertive, ask questions actively, and maintain a journal to record observations. Cultivating a good relationship with the doctors you work with or shadow can foster professional relationships beneficial for future endeavors.

Yes, you'll have opportunities to explore various destinations beyond your placement location. We provide information on available excursions, safari, mountaineering hike, cultural tours, shopping for souvenirs in exotic markets and other travel options, allowing you to make the most of your experience while abroad.

For students interested in the field of medicine or exploring career options, well-structured and flexible internship opportunities can be hard to come by. Go Elective offers an incredibly affordable and appealing program for international internships. With over a decade of experience, our partners have established strategic strong connections with training institutions and placement centers abroad to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

EYes, we can usually accommodate requests to extend your stay, subject to availability. Our team will help with visa extension and any other necessary arrangement to prolong your experience with us.

Certainly! GoElective hosts university groups, school groups, colleagues friends and more. Our programs are suitable for individuals as well as groups. However, spaces are limited, so early booking is advised, especially for group travel.

Upon arrival, our placement coordinator and program driver will meet you directly at the airport and drive you to the designated accommodation. After which you will do a local area orientation or city tour after resting from jetlag. The next day you will then be taken to the placement facility for the second orientation. This is usually shared during our Pre-trip virtual sessions with you.

Our team will provide guidance and support to apply and secure your visa or eTA (electronicTravel Authorization). Visa requirements and fees vary depending on your nationality and destination. However, the range is usually $30-50.

Yes, major credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, are accepted at various ATM facilities in Kenya. We recommend notifying your bank before traveling and also exercising caution when using the card to avoid any potential issues.

The program fees cover all essential needs however, we recommend budgeting for about $120 per week to cover expenses for leisure activities. This is in line with your spending habits or experiences, since it might be higher if you are more outdoorsy.

Yes, we provide assistance with visa. If you require assistance with flights please inform us, and we'll provide guidance and support to facilitate the process. We normally handle this during pre-trip virtual session with our team.

While most participants prefer to book their flights, GoElective's U.S.-based team can assist with flight bookings at no additional cost upon request.

The program offers two-way transportation from the residence to the placement facility. For immersion purposes, you can request to use public transport. However, you will be accompanied by one of our program staff.

We recommend booking flights no later than 3 months before your trip or as soon as your placement has been confirmed and you have paid the reservation fee. This ensures you get availability and the best rates.

By default, participants stay in our residence during your placement abroad. The residences are spacious, secure, and fully catered and feature Wi-Fi and housekeeping services, where you can relax and socialize with fellow students and graduates from various disciplines. You can also choose to pay extra for private accommodation. Check our accommodations page for more information.

Yes, each of our houses is equipped with reliable Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected. While internet connectivity in some destinations may be intermittent, our team ensures a smooth experience for communication and studying.

Yes, you can bring a non-internship friend to stay with you during your program. However, additional charges will apply for accommodation and other expenses. Please inform our placement advisors in advance to make necessary arrangements. They can also participate in other placement options available such as teaching, community development, orphanage work, agriculture, environmental protection, and more.

While not mandatory, staying at our residences is highly recommended to fully immerse yourself in the destinations. However, we have placement-only programs that involve covering your accommodation and meals while abroad.

Our in-house chefs prepare a variety of local dishes alongside international options. We prioritize providing nutritious and diverse meals to cater to different dietary preferences and requirements. Expect to enjoy meals consisting of staples like fish, chicken, beef, rice, and pasta, alongside local specialties such as ugali and githeri. Vegetarian options are also available, and we strive to accommodate dietary preferences.

We accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian diets. Simply inform us of your dietary concerns or special needs in advance, and we'll prepare accordingly.

No, you'll stay in our private GoElective houses, offering comfort and security during your placement.

No, English is sufficient for communication during your program. However, learning basic Swahili phrases can enhance your experience, and we provide language lessons as part of our orientation program.

Absolutely! Whether you've recently graduated or have been practicing for some time, you're welcome to embark on a transformative overseas internship with us. You'll receive the same level of trip customization as other participants, with the opportunity to tailor your experience based on your level of experience and interests. Choose your desired destination and departments for experience, and we'll curate the perfect placement for you.

Rest assured, most applications to join our programs are solo trips that then join other participants in the program. Our in-country team will be there to support you during your time overseas, both within the hospital and in your daily activities. However, if you prefer to travel with friends or colleagues, that's also an option. Keep in mind that program spaces are limited, so it's best to inquire early to secure your preferred choices.

Our houses are reserved for students and professionals on paid placements only. However, we can recommend nearby accommodations for visitors.

Our placements run all-year-round and can be tailored to your schedule and preferences, whether it's during your elective period, summer break, or after becoming a qualified professional. The minimum stay is one week, however we recommend at least 2-week for greater learning opportunities and at least 3-weeks for those interested in exploring multiple departments.

Yes, traveling solo is a popular choice among our participants. You'll have the opportunity to meet and socialize with other healthcare students and graduates from around the world, ensuring you're never alone. Our in-country teams provide support and assistance as needed throughout your overseas experience.

Yes, individuals under the age of 18 can participate in the program. However, they will need guardian consent.

Yes. After applying or reserving your slot, you can still reach out to us to adjust your program start dates, durations, or preference. Kindly note that this is in accordance with our terms and subject to availability.

Students participating in our healthcare programs are required to bring multiple pairs of scrubs.

We tailor placements for students and professionals alike, whether you're a premed student, completing a medical placement as part of your degree, or seeking to explore or enhance your career prospects in different fields. You can also be joined by friends or family to go on safari at the end of your internship.

Absolutely! We can create tailored placements suitable for the majority of degrees. If you don't see your specific degree listed on our website, please reach out to us using the inquiry form, and we'll work with you to design a suitable placement.

After paying the reservation fee of $300, you will receive a payment acknowledgment email. After which you will obtain access to GoElective Internship Planner - MyTrip. You will then receive a welcoming call from our team. The following weeks will entail arranging a Pre-Trip session with our team to guide you through vaccination, visa, and checklists.

Our in-country teams provide 24/7 support, ensuring you have a smooth and enriching experience. From airport pickups to ongoing assistance, we're here for you every step of the way.

Upon request, your GoElective Placement Advisors will provide you with a letter of reference at the conclusion of your program. Our operational staff is also available to serve as referees for past volunteers, offering valuable support for your future endeavors.

Yes, upon completing your GoElective program, you can obtain a Program Completion Certificate. This certificate highlights the date and duration of your volunteer experience, serving as a valuable addition to your resume and recognizing your commitment to personal and professional development.

The number of participants varies by program and time of year. While some programs durations, such as summer, host numerous interns simultaneously, others may have fewer participants. For inquiries about your specific program, please contact your Program Manager or reach out to us directly.

GoElective specializes in volunteering opportunities in East Africa and South America. Explore our destinations for more information.

Besides healthcare, we provide a diverse range of affordable programs, including Teaching, Community Development, Business Treks, HIV work, Orphanage Work, Agriculture, Environmental Protection, and more. Whether you're pursuing a career in healthcare or interested in other fields, there's a project to suit your interests and skills.

GoElective prioritizes participant safety and has established stringent protocols and training programs to minimize the risk of exposure. In the event of exposure to infectious diseases, physicians are available 24/7 to provide timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) at no expense to participants.

GoElective's programs are structured to provide ample local guidance and support. Participants benefit from 24-hour in-country support ensuring a safe and enriching experience abroad

In case of illness during your program, we'll ensure that you receive prompt medical attention at the nearest hospital. Kindly note that you will be responsible for the costs associated with diagnosis and treatment.

The program fees cover placement fees, accommodation, meals, airport pick, two-way transport to the placement site, language lessons, global health seminars and more. International airfare, vaccinations, and Visa are not included in the program fee. Visit our pricing page for a detailed breakdown of costs, inclusions, and exclusions.

No, you can spread the cost of your placement by paying in installments, with the full balance due 30 days before your start date.

Different safaris packages are customized, and prices vary depending on the experience. Also, additional overnight stays are not included. Ideally, the Safari costs cover transportation to and from the game reserve, entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and professional guide fees. Visit our safari page for more information.

Our placements are unpaid, focusing on providing valuable learning experiences in healthcare settings abroad.

Many universities offer bursaries and grants for overseas placements. Check our comprehensive guide to fundraising for more information on how to go around it.