Student Volunteering

Make your mark – get involved

Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to make an impact during your time ��ɫ��Ƶ.

Students can get involved in a wide range of activities – from mentoring and environmental initiatives to fundraising, coaching, and international projects.

When you volunteer, your hours count towards the UL President’s Volunteer Award (PVA) – a prestigious recognition for UL students.

The PVA is recorded on your official UL student transcript, highlighting both your academic and volunteer achievements and helping you stand out to future employers.

PVA Ceremony_Linda Fitzgeald Shane Kilcommins Nichola Keegan

Why volunteer?

Boost your skills: Develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills valued by employers.
Build your network: Meet new friends and expand your professional and social connections.
Enhance wellbeing: Volunteering is proven to boost happiness and reduce stress.
Be recognised: Earn the PVA and have your commitment celebrated and formally acknowledged by the University President.

The President’s Volunteer Award (PVA)

The PVA is UL’s flagship recognition programme for student volunteering. It celebrates the contribution of student volunteers to UL and the wider community and showcases their achievements.

Award levels

Gold: 60 volunteering hours
Silver: 40 volunteering hours
Bronze: 20 volunteering hours
Plassey: 12 volunteering hours (for international students here for one semester only)
Overseas: Requires completion of ��ǳ��á�� pre- and post-departure training plus a reflective portfolio.

How it works

Log your volunteer hours online throughout the academic year.
Submit your PVA application before the deadline.

Award recipients are celebrated at the annual PVA Awards Ceremony on Wednesday 21 October 2026, at 3.30pm in the University Concert Hall.

Civic Engagement Scholarship

First-year undergraduates with a passion for volunteering can apply for a €1,500 Civic Engagement Scholarship to support their studies while making a difference. Complete the Application Form:

Applications close on 15^th January 2026. Interviews may be held depending on the volume of applications received.

Get involved now

Sign up and create your volunteer dashboard

Browse and apply for volunteering opportunities
Connect with community organisations locally, nationally or internationally.
Manage your profile and volunteering activity online.
Log and track your volunteering hours
Apply for the President's Volunteer Award (PVA)

Click for more info.