AmeriCorps is a national service program that engages more than 40,000 Americans of all ages and backgrounds in intensive, results-driven community service. AmeriCorps members help meet the nation’s critical needs through locally designed and operated programs. In California, the AmeriCorps programs are administered by the Govenor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism (GO SERV).
As AmeriCorps members, TEAMS Fellows receive a $4,725 education award to pay for current or future college and graduate school tuition or job training, or to repay existing student loans. Fellows must complete all program requirements for the TEAMS program to receive the award. Awards are granted at the end of each year for up to two years of service in TEAMS. In addition, Fellows qualify for student loan deferral and payment of accrued interest during their two years of service. All Fellows are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to receive financial assistance through TEAMS. For deferral of student loan payments, Fellows must complete the Forbearance Request for National Service. Examples of qualified student loans are: Federal Stafford Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Federal Direct Student Loans, Federal Consolidated Loans, Supplemental Loans for Students, and Public Health Service Loans. For more information about AmeriCorps, please visit the following web sites: