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    What should I do first if I need to leave?What if I want to leave camp?What happens if I am fired?What are the financial implications?What about my remaining pay?Can I still travel after leaving early?
    1. Home
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    3. Leaving camp early

    Leaving camp early

    What to consider before leaving camp early, the consequences for your visa, and how to get support first.

    Last updated April 2, 2026

    What should I do first if I need to leave?

    Contact the Camp Leaders US office before you leave camp: 1-866-803-7643. They will never judge you. They are there to support you.

    What if I want to leave camp?

    Over the course of the summer, you may feel stressed, overwhelmed, or want to go home. Remember that many others feel the same way. Before making a decision, talk to experienced camp staff, other international counselors, or call the Camp Leaders 24/7 support line: 1-866-803-7643.

    If you do decide to leave, contact Camp Leaders first. The team will walk you through what happens next.

    What happens if I am fired?

    Camps can fire you for breaking rules or for performance issues. Most camp contracts contain "at-will employment" language, meaning the camp can end your contract at any time. You may be asked to leave camp quickly.

    Contact the Camp Leaders US office immediately: 1-866-803-7643. They will guide you through the next steps. You will also hear from your visa sponsor.

    What are the financial implications?

    If you leave camp early, there may be financial consequences. Your camp pays a prorated fee to Camp Leaders covering program costs (insurance, helpline, DS-2019, placement fee). Leaving early may make you liable for some of these fees, calculated based on how much of your contract you completed.

    Camp Leaders understands that some reasons are out of your control and will work with you on a case-by-case basis. Review your program agreement for full details.

    What about my remaining pay?

    You are still entitled to prorated pocket money based on the days you completed at camp.

    Can I still travel after leaving early?

    Post-camp travel after an early departure is at the discretion of your visa sponsor. In some cases, you may still be allowed to travel for up to 30 days from the day you leave camp. Any travel and accommodation will be at your own expense.

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