How do I know if I am a returner?
If you have been to summer camp in America before and already have a placement at camp, you are a returner. This applies whether you previously traveled with Camp Leaders or with a different agency.
How do I apply as a returner with Camp Leaders?
If you have an existing Camp Leaders profile, log in and click the "start returner application" button. Your previous information will carry over, making the process fast and simple.
If you have been to camp before but have not traveled with Camp Leaders, start a new Camp Leaders profile and contact the team to let them know you are a returner. They will switch your application to a returner profile and give you the next steps.
What should I expect as a returning participant?
Going back to camp with experience gives you a head start. You can expect more responsibility and potentially a more senior role, greater confidence in your position, the chance to see campers and friends from previous years, and the opportunity to support and mentor new staff.
Even as a returner, you still have access to the Camp Leaders team for support throughout the summer.
What is different about the returner application?
The returner application is shorter and faster than a first-time application. Much of your information carries over from your previous year. You will still need to complete any updated sections, submit references, and upload current documents.
Complete your entire application as soon as possible so that Camp Leaders can process your visa paperwork without delays.
If you have forgotten your Camp Leaders login details, try the password reset option. If that does not work, contact your local office and they can reset your details.
Do I still need references as a returner?
Yes. It is a Department of State requirement to have 3 professional references, even if you have been to camp before and already have your placement confirmed. Your 3 referees need to have known you for over 6 months, cannot be a relative, and should be one of the following: an employer or supervisor, a teacher or lecturer, a coach, or a religious leader.
Am I eligible to return if I used a different agency before?
Yes. Anyone who has previously been a camp counselor or support staff at an American summer camp is eligible to apply as a returner with Camp Leaders, regardless of which agency you used before.
Are there visa restrictions for returners?
For second-year returners, there are no additional visa restrictions as long as you meet the background check criteria.
If you are returning for a third summer or more, the US Department of State has restrictions that limit the number of returners with 2 or more previous summers. Apply as early as possible, as spaces are limited and fill up.
How much does it cost to return?
Returner pricing is different from first-time pricing and varies by country. Visit the returning to camp section on the Camp Leaders website for the most up-to-date information.
As a returner, you will need to pay your program fee, police check, and US visa application (MRV) fee. The support staff program fee is slightly higher than the camp counselor fee because the visa forms for support staff cost more.
How much will I earn as a returner?
Returning participants typically earn more than first-timers. As a returner, you negotiate your pocket money directly with your camp director. This is one of the advantages of having previous camp experience.
What about flights as a returner?
Flights are not included in the returner program. In some countries, Camp Leaders may be able to help you with booking. Contact the team for details.
Camp Leaders recommends waiting until after your visa has been approved before booking flights. You must arrive on or before your camp contract start date. If your flight is booked for after this date, Camp Leaders will need to apply for new visa paperwork and an admin fee may apply.