College student volunteers support patients, visitors, and staff across a wide range of world-class care units and clinics at University of Iowa Health Care. We offer diverse placement options to match the varied interests and comfort levels of our student volunteers.
Many students discover a passion for health care through volunteering, while others find it complements their chosen career path in other fields. Volunteer Services also sponsors businesses that generate funds for scholarships awarded to outstanding college student volunteers. Students from all colleges and universities are welcome to apply.
Requirements for College Student Volunteers
Must be at least 18 years old to begin preregistration.
Desire to help others as part of the UI Health Care team.
College enrollment not required.
Ideal for those pursuing a health sciences career.
Onboarding occurs at the start of fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Two-semester commitment required (3-hour weekly shifts, 72 total hours).
Semesters do not need to be consecutive but must be within one calendar year; two summer semesters allowed.
Flu vaccination required for patient-facing roles.
Non-vaccinated volunteers may serve in non-patient-facing roles.
Becoming a College Student Volunteer
Summer 2026 Preregistration for the 8-week summer semester (June 15 through August 10, 2026) will open on Monday, April 13.
The Summer Semester Volunteer Referral Session will occur virtually on Saturday, June 13. Those invited to complete the preregistration must attend this mandatory session. Applicants are expected to serve TWO 3-hour service shifts per week for the summer session, preferably in two different units.
Onboarding Steps Upon submitting your preregistration, Volunteer Services will review and send further information within 5 business days if you are invited to move forward.
The preregistration process involves many steps and may take 4-6 weeks to complete. We encourage applicants to complete each step of the process as soon as possible to remain a competitive applicant. Applicants will be required to complete a health screening on-site at our University Employee Health Clinic.
Invitations to the mandatory referral session are issued based on timely completion of each of many steps. Those furthest along in the preregistration process will receive priority. Limited spots are available, and all attendees will select their volunteer placement for the summer semester during the Referral Session.
Mandatory Referral Session The Summer Semester Volunteer Referral Session will occur virtually on Saturday, June 13. Those invited to complete the preregistration must attend this mandatory session.
On-site, mandatory unit trainings will occur the week of June 15. Specific information will be shared with successful candidates.
Information regarding the Fall 2026 program will be available beginning May 18.
Switching Units for Returning Volunteers Returning volunteers who wish to switch units must complete 24 hours in their current unit and register for a referral session. These sessions are held alongside new college student referral sessions at the start of the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters. Details on how to register will be emailed by Volunteer Services. For questions, contact: [email protected].
College Student Volunteer Placement Options
Volunteer Services has many great placements for volunteers interested in pursuing a career in the medical or health sciences field. Not all our student placements may be available, and while no service area can be guaranteed in advance, our goal is to make the best possible service matches based on the needs of our patients and the interests of each one of our volunteers. Visit our College Student Volunteer Placement Options for a list of placements and descriptions
Mentor Program
Have you found success in your volunteer role at UI Health Care? Are you interested in taking your service to the next level and help to improve the patient and family experience? If you would like to play a role in ensuring new volunteers have a successful volunteer experience, we invite you to apply for a mentor position in our hospital.
College Student Leader Board
The College Student Leader Board consists of approximately 20 members who act as a liaison between Volunteer Services, volunteers, and the Staff Volunteer Supervisors in their assigned areas. Student volunteers have the opportunity to apply at the start of each Spring semester. Find out more about our College Student Leader Board here and watch testimonials from our volunteer leadership below.
