Frequently Asked Questions
Deciding to serve is a big step, and we know it comes with questions. Here you’ll find clear answers—from life on board to applying. Don’t see yours? Our team is just a message away and ready to help.
Common FAQs
What are the medical requirements to serve with Mercy Ships?
What kinds of positions are available?
How long can I serve?
Are there age restrictions to serve?
Does Mercy Ships cater to special diets?
How much does it cost to serve with Mercy Ships?
Is it safe to live on board the ships? What security measures are in place?
What languages do I need to know?
If I serve on one of the ships, will I be working with the local people?
What do crew do after work?
Where do crew come from?
Where does the ship pick me up?
Can I bring my pet (including Service Dog, emotional support animal, or therapy animal) on board?
Is there Catholic Mass on board?
How can I learn more about life on board while I wait?
Where can I get more information about volunteering with Mercy Ships?
Family
How long can I serve?
Can married couples with/without children serve on board?
If we are a couple, how will our placement be managed?
Can non-married couples serve together on board?
Can I volunteer without my non-adult children?
Can single parent families volunteer to serve on board?
If we are applying as a family, can we both work full-time?
How many children are on board?
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the Academy?
What is there to do as a family on our off time?
What would our cabin be like, and how big are the beds?
What are the special rules for children?
Are diapers available on board?
Is there an orthodontist on board?
Academy
What is the Mercy Ships Academy?
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the Academy?
How long are the school days, and how much homework do students have?
What is the average class size?
How are the classes divided?
What do kids do when the Academy is closed for holidays or the maintenance period?
When are school breaks scheduled?
Medical
What surgical procedures do you perform on board?
Do I need to be a registered nurse?
Can a Nurse Anesthetist join as an Anesthesia Provider?
As a surgeon, what can I expect during my first time on board?
Do you use general surgeons?
Do you use gynecologists?
Do you use medical or nursing students?
Do I need experience before volunteering?
Do I need malpractice insurance?
Does my license need to be current?
What is the minimum commitment?
What will my schedule be (night/weekends/etc.)?
What opportunities does Mercy Ships offer for allied health professionals?
What are the nursing responsibilities in the ward?
Do I need to bring my own scrubs?
What are the medicines we use on board?
Maritime/ Technical
Do I need seaman’s papers to serve on board?
Will my service time on a Mercy Ship count toward a Merchant Marine Certificate?
Will my Navy experience benefit Mercy Ships?
With what countries does Malta hold bilateral agreements to accept mariner documentation and licensure?
Why does Mercy Ships register its ships in Malta?
Is Mercy Ships compliant with safety and environmental regulations?
How much time is spent at sea?
I’m interested in a maritime career, but I don’t have any experience. Can Mercy Ships help?
Applying
How long does it take to be reviewed?
Are interviews required?
What is the Talent Community?
Are background or criminal record checks required?
How far in advance should I apply to volunteer with Mercy Ships?
Can I apply if I am not a Christian or currently not attending a church?
What is final acceptance to join Mercy Ships based on?
Why might my application be denied?
How do I apply?
Talent Community
Why would I be placed into the Talent Community?
What happens in this step of the process?
How long do people usually wait in the Talent Community?
What happens when my position/role is available?
Will I hear from you while I wait?
How can I learn more about life on board while I wait?
General Roles
What opportunities are available for professionals not in the medical field?
What ongoing staff development does Mercy Ships offer?
Can I continue to work remotely for a company at home?
How easy is it to transfer to another position or location?
Does Mercy Ships have a minimum commitment for leadership positions?
Which positions are on your management team?
Credentialing
What is credentialing?
What details do you need about my work and education history?
What roles need to complete credentialing?
Will you contact my workplace?
What will you ask my workplace?
What if my school/university no longer have my records available?
How long will credentialing take?
What will happen if I don’t meet the credentialling requirements?
If I am an Alumni, why do I have to go through credentialing?
Fundraising
How much does it cost to serve with Mercy Ships?
Can Mercy Ships help me raise funds?
Is fundraising required to serve with Mercy Ships?
I don’t feel like I can ask my family, friends and church to donate money to me. What should I do?
Can Mercy Ships promote my fundraising page and share it with potential donors?
Can the Communications team take photos of me to include in my communication with supporters?
No results for: