Alternative Breaks Frequently Asked Questions

All University of Montana students are welcome! Trips do not require prior experience, just an open mind and a willingness to learn and serve.

The program fee covers all group travel, lodging, and meals during service. Students are responsible for personal purchases (such as souvenirs and optional activities) and meals during travel days.

Lodging varies by trip. Depending on the destination, students may stay in group housing such as Airbnbs, dorm-style facilities, or field stations. Students should expect to share rooms and live in close quarters with other trip participants.

Days are active and full! Mornings and afternoons are typically devoted to service work and group reflection. In the evenings, teams share meals together and enjoy free time.

Yes. Each trip includes a balance of service and exploration. Students enjoy free time in the evenings and during Community Immersion Day – which is a day off of service where the team explores their new community through student-led sightseeing and recreation.

All participants are required to attend three pre-trip meetings with their team to get to know  each other, prepare for travel, and learn about the community they’ll be serving. After returning, all teams come together for a shared re-orientation / celebration to share their experiences, hear from local leaders, and plan ways to continue making an impact in Missoula.

Applications open in January. Check out our Alt Breaks page for current dates and application details.

Applicants are chosen based on their passion for community service, openness to new experiences, and ability to work well on a team. Alternative Breaks is an in-demand program and there are often 4 times as many applicants as available spaces.

Students may apply for Experiential Learning Student Scholarships through the Experiential Learning and Career Success (ELCS) office. Learn more on our scholarships page.

Additionally, students who are part of TRIO may be eligible for special funding and should talk to their TRIO advisor for details.

Alternative Break trips are active, hands-on service experiences that may involve physical tasks that may be physically demanding. If you have specific accessibility needs or concerns, please contact Jenah Mead (jenah.mead@mso.umt.edu) before applying to discuss available options and accommodations.

Each trip is led by trained UM student leaders and supported by staff from the Experiential Learning and Career Success office.

Yes. Students can earn academic credit for participating in an Alternative Break trip. Contact Jenah Mead (jenah.mead@mso.umt.edu) for more information.