Africa Inland Mission | United States Mobilizing Region

Serving FAQ

How is AIM different from other organizations?

Every missions organization is different, and no one organization is necessarily better than another. It’s all about finding the organization that’s a good fit for you. Our missionaries describe AIM as having a “family feel.” Perhaps what’s most unique about AIM is its emphasis on reaching the unreached. Our vision is to see Christ-centered churches among all the peoples of Africa.

What are the requirements to apply with Africa Inland Mission?

You must be a born-again Christian with an active and growing relationship with Jesus Christ; you must be at least 18 years old; you must be able to legally work in the U.S.; you cannot have been divorced multiple times or within 1 year of your appointment date.

How long does the application take/how soon can I be on the field?

The Short-Term application process normally takes 3-6 months. The Full-Term application process normally takes between 4-12 months, with at least another 6 months to raise support before going out to the field.

How much does it cost to go to Africa?

The Short-Term application fee is $35. The only expense associated with the Full-Term application process is the Connect Week fee (contact your facilitator or fill out the Got question form for information on Connect Week costs). Both Short-Term and Full-Term missionaries raise prayer and financial support to sustain them on the field. Rough estimates include $4,500 for a Short Term summer team and $15,000 for a year-long individual assignment. Full-Term support targets vary widely based on assignment, location, family size, and length of term, and generally aren’t available until the Connect Week stage. It’s natural to be anxious about raising support, but we walk beside you throughout the fundraising process, and we serve a mighty God.

Will I need to learn another language to go to Africa?

Most assignments offer the exciting opportunity to learn another language. AIM recognizes the value of building relationships and making disciples by communicating with people in their own language. This is especially true for those applying Full-Term. Language learning is part of the TIMO program, and when necessary, language school (in the States, in Africa, or elsewhere) is an option. There are also positions and areas which do not require knowledge of a language other than English, but language learning is always encouraged.

Can I go to Africa while my husband/wife remains in the U.S.?

AIM’s policy is to appoint both spouses as a couple such that both spouses engage in ministry in Africa, which may include one spouse raising the family and building relationships in the community.

What are the education options for my children?

Some families home-school their children, some enroll their children in one of AIM’s MK schools (in Kenya, Tanzania, and Chad), and some enroll their children in other private schools or a national school.

What is Connect Week?

Connect Week is the last step in the application process and is required for all Full-Term candidates and for Short-Term personnel who serve for six months or longer. It is a week of training and orientation held at the AIM U.S. headquarters near Atlanta, Georgia.

Serving with AIM – Inquire

Got questions about serving?

Just fill out this short inquiry form and we’ll get it to our resident experts.