Summer Internships Abroad
An overseas summer internship is a great opportunity to develop a broader perspective and differentiate yourself in the job market, without delaying your prospective graduation date.
If you’re wondering how to make your goal of doing a summer internship abroad a reality, we’re here to help! Read on for a comprehensive overview of the top places to intern abroad, how to find summer internships, tips for applying, and other essential tips and tricks to enhance your experience abroad!
There are a few different types of summer internships you can find abroad.
- Paid internships are becoming more common as organizations recognize their value. By investing in quality interns and offering proper training, companies may even consider offering select individuals a full-time position.
- Internships for credit should closely align with your field of study and may require an academic sponsor, research, and presenting your findings at the end of the summer. This is a great way to gain real-world international experience while obtaining course credit.
- Non-profit internships shouldn’t be overlooked just because they're unpaid. These organizations often welcome enthusiastic and passionate interns who want to make a difference and can provide defining experiences that provide career insight.
- Service learning internships allow you to give back to the community while gaining relevant knowledge in your desired field. Setting clear goals and taking time to self-reflect are key components of this type of internship.
Start your international internship search by looking at programs in these countries!
Australia
Pack up and head down under to Australia for a fun and exciting internship experience abroad! The country’s varied economy combines great job opportunities, including marketing, fashion, and environmental research, with a welcoming culture. An added bonus is that English is the primary language in Australia, so fret not about balancing a new work culture while adapting to another language. Australia’s popular cities – Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and more – also boast beautiful parks, beaches, wilderness, and city life that are all worth exploring. Just remember that summer in the Northern Hemisphere is winter in the Southern Hemisphere.
England
With one of the largest economies in Europe and a range of thriving industries, England offers many internship opportunities during the summer months that will help your career forward! The most popular internship location is London – a hub for global business that offers both a meaningful work experience and a spectacular city experience. Similar to Australia, England is also a primarily English-speaking country, making it a great option for those without fluency in another language.
China
With one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and an increasing global influence, China is becoming a top destination for internships abroad. From Beijing to Shanghai and beyond, you’re guaranteed to gain valuable international work experience in various industries, including business, finance, and marketing.
Spain
Looking for professional development, plus sunshine and beaches? Spain might be the perfect summer internship abroad for you. Its largest cities, Madrid and Barcelona, are sure to help you gain relevant career experience as leading cultural and economic centers. Head over now to work in industries such as business or hospitality while enjoying Spain’s incredible fiestas, nightlife, and beautiful landscape!
Here at Go Overseas, you can search for summer programs based on country, internship type, and other filters to find the best programs to fit your career goals. To begin, review the programs below and read real reviews from previous alum. Many providers will match you with an internship that fits your goals and qualifications.
Another great option is to hop over to the GO Job Board, where companies from around the world post jobs and internships they are currently recruiting for. If you still haven’t found your dream program, external job sites, Google searches, and company websites can offer a fresh listing of paid internships to apply to.
While requirements vary depending on the country, industry, and various other factors, these are generally the steps you’ll need to follow to land a summer internship:
- Check that you meet the eligibility requirements, especially academic, language, and visa qualifications
- Prepare your application materials, such as your resume (CV), cover letter, portfolio, and/or personal statement of purpose
- Submit any necessary documents or paperwork, including academic transcripts from your home university and letters of recommendation
- Prepare for the interview!
- Apply for a visa
Summer Internship Programs Abroad
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I find an internship as an international student?
The easiest way for international students to find internships is through a program provider like those featured on this page. Program providers will help you secure your visa and can answer any questions you have about your summer internship abroad.
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When should I start looking for summer internships?
It’s common for companies to start the application process in the spring semester prior to summer, such as in February or March. If you want to start an internship in the summer, it's a good idea to research and apply for open positions well in advance.
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Is paying for an internship abroad worth it?
Paying an internship program provider to find you a placement takes the legwork out of the application process. For many students, it’s worth it because it means they avoid the long process of applying to countless competitive positions that likely have hundreds of applicants.
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How can I get an internship with no experience?
Most employers do not expect their summer interns to have much experience beforehand. The most important thing is to show that you have a genuine interest in the field and the motivation to learn new things.
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Do summer interns get paid?
Summer internships can be paid or unpaid, although it is common for internships to be unpaid as employers often view them as educational experiences. Visa regulations in some countries do not allow foreign interns to be paid.
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How can I get a summer internship abroad?
After you decide on the field for your summer internship, start looking for overseas openings at your school's career center and online. You can start with our Internships Job Board here at GO!
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What do you do during a summer internship?
Because internships are a learning experience, you will likely have a mentor who oversees your work on a project or a series of tasks. You may also attend conferences, networking events, or company functions.
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