NOTE: This expedition variations system came into effect on 1 October 2008.

• variations are for allowing individuals with a specific need to participate in their DofE programme and are not granted based on the difficulties of a proposed expedition environment;
• If all the individuals in a team have the same specific need then they should apply as a team;
• an approved application applies to both practice and qualifying expeditions so should be applied for prior to the practice expedition; and
• a variation application for expedition conditions 1,10,12 & 13 are always submitted to the DofE Head Office as a variation application or as an adventurous project application.
• If your expedition team needs to deviate from the following conditions, please take note of this information:
       14. Accommodation should be by camping.
       16. The expedition should normally take place between the end of March and the end of October.
       17. The expedition should take place in the recommended environment.
  You do not need to submit a written variation form for any of these three variations.  However,you must agree these with your Operating Authority and the Expedition Assessor prior to the expedition.

If you are submitting an application for any other condition in addition to 14, 16 or 17 you must include ALL information on your application.

How do I apply for a variation or adventurous project?
You apply for both a normal variation and an adventurous project using the variation request form. Your DofE Leader should help you to fill in the variation application form.

Step by step guide:

1. Contact your Operating Authority DofE Manger for advice on variations to the 20 conditions of the Expedition section.
2. Download the variation application form here or request one from your DofE Regional/Country Office.
3. Fill in the form with your DofE Leader or Expedition Supervisor.
4. E-mail or post your form at least 12 weeks before the expedition to:
   • Bronze & Silver expedition variation applications go to the appropriate DofE Manager for your Operating Authority (For National Operating Authorities like the Scouts or ATC this may be a Regional DofE Manager).
   • Gold expedition variation applications go to the DofE Regional or Country Office appropriate for your Operating Authority (DofE Head Office for National Operating Authorities like the Scouts or ATC) and a copy sent to the appropriate DofE Manager for your Operating Authority.
   • Adventurous Project applications should be submitted to the DofE Head Office at the earliest opportunity at the very start of planning the expedition. You must contact your Operating Authority for guidance before applying. (Applications to the DofE Head Office should be sent to either info@DofE.org or Variation Application, The DofE, Gulliver House, Madeira Walk, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1EU).
5. Your application will be reviewed, a decision made and the form sent back to you.
6. If you are successful you need to attach your approved variation application form to the appropriate notification form required for your DofE expedition.