Yes! Interning abroad is a great way to build a global perspective and improve your skills and cross-cultural communication. You can find international internships here on Go Overseas by browsing through program providers or our global job board.
Internships Abroad
Go Overseas is here to take the guesswork out of finding internships abroad.
Guide to Internships Abroad
Dreaming of earning academic credit, gaining global work experience, building an international network, or boosting your resume? An internship abroad offers all that and more! Whether you’re a student, recent grad, or young professional, interning overseas is the perfect way to combine travel with personal and professional growth.
From paid to unpaid, short-term to long-term, these experiences prepare you to stand out in your career. Here at GO, we’ll help you explore opportunities, get logistical advice, and gain expert insight, to launch your international career!
How to get an Internship Abroad
Interning abroad can be a great way to gain valuable professional experience, learn about different cultures, and expand your network.
Here are some steps you can take to start interning abroad:
- Determine your goals: Consider what you hope to gain or learn from an international internship. Do you want to grow your skills or understand the inner workings of a specific industry? Are you looking to build your portfolio? Are you seeking mentorship?
- Research potential internships: Once you have an idea of where you want to intern and where you want to travel to, start searching for internships in the country and industry that interests you. Take a look at all of the options available on Go Overseas to read verified unbiased reviews!
- Apply for internships: Once you have found internships that interest you, apply for them by submitting your resume and cover letter. Some internships may also require a writing sample, portfolio, or letters of recommendation.
- Obtain necessary documents: Depending on the country you plan to intern in, you may need a work visa or other legal documents. Research the visa requirements and begin the application process early.
- Prepare for the experience: Before you depart for your internship, learn as much as you can about the culture and customs of the country you will be living in. Also, consider learning some basic phrases in the local language.
- Make arrangements for housing and transportation: Look for housing options near your internship site, and consider transportation options for getting to and from work.
- Pack for your trip: Pack the necessary clothes and items you will need for your internship abroad.
- Enjoy the experience: Once you arrive, make the most of your internship by learning as much as you can, meeting new people, and exploring the local area in your free time!
Benefits of Internships Abroad
Interning abroad is a unique opportunity to grow personally and professionally while discovering the world! Here are some of the major benefits of pursuing an internship abroad:
- Global work experience: Gain firsthand insight into how industries operate in different countries, making your resume stand out in an increasingly globalized job market.
- Cultural immersion: Live and work in a new culture, broadening your perspective and developing cross-cultural communication skills.
- Improved language fluency: You’ll learn a new language through real-world practice, a skill highly valued by employers.
- International networking: Build an international network of colleagues and mentors that can open doors to future career opportunities.
- Personal growth: Step outside your comfort zone, boost your confidence, and become more adaptable and resourceful.
- Stronger job candidacy: Working abroad builds independence, initiative, and global awareness—qualities that make you a stronger job candidate.
- It’s a chance for adventure and travel: An internship abroad blends career development with the excitement of travel.
- Academic credit: You may be able to fulfill your degree requirements while getting the chance to travel! Best of both worlds!
Paid vs Unpaid Internships Abroad
Based on the internship and the employer, you may get paid for your work or earn academic credit. Let’s breakdown the difference between paid vs unpaid internships:
- Paid internships: You’ll either earn an hourly wage or program stipend. These opportunities are highly competitive because of their paid status, and often demand stronger experience to be accepted.
- Unpaid internships: Instead of monetary compensation, you may receive academic credit or mentorship, and your chance of getting accepted is likely guaranteed. An unpaid internship abroad could be a convenient option for those with limited to no work experience, and want to gain work experience while traveling.
While plenty of internships are paid, it is not guaranteed. Due to visa constraints or work visa requirements, some program providers are unable to offer paid internships. However, you may be able to receive housing or academic credit during your unpaid internship.
The Costs of Internships Abroad
Finding an internship abroad can be tough. There are a number of ways to find internships abroad, such as applying directly to companies, searching online job boards, or booking through placement providers.
For most interns and those with limited work experience, the most convenient way to guarantee an internship is by applying through an organization that arranges internship programs – which you can find right here on Go Overseas!
The cost of doing an internship abroad varies widely based on the program, location, and duration. You’ll need to budget for program fees, visas, travel, and of course, your living expenses while abroad. Fortunately there are scholarships to help offset the cost!
How to use Go Overseas
Go Overseas is your go-to source for trusted travel programs. Explore thousands of vetted options and get the guidance you need to feel confident and excited about culturally-immersive experiences abroad.
Here’s how to use GO to plan your next adventure:
- Explore 16,000+ programs: Narrow your search results by using filters, such as program type, location, and length.
- Compare 46,000+ reviews: Real people have gone on these programs, and have unique experiences to share. Read their reviews to learn what it’s truly like to live and learn abroad!
- Read alumni interviews: Hear personal stories and in-depth accounts from fellow travelers just like you!
- Browse community photos: Dive into photos of real experiences from our community of travelers. From mouthwatering meals and cozy accommodations, to breathtaking adventures and new friends, our galleries bring the journey to life. Start picturing your story abroad!
- Wish List 💙: Not ready to commit to a program? Click the Wish List heart icon to bookmark programs and save them for later. Then, compare programs side by side.
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Frequently Asked Intern Abroad Questions
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Can you intern in another country?
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How do I find internships abroad?
To find an internship abroad, you can either work with a program placement provider or search independently through online job boards and apply directly.
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When is the best time to intern abroad?
The best time to intern abroad is while you're in college. Many students opt to do a summer internship abroad, since your work won't interfere with your class schedule and you'll have more free time to travel and really enjoy yourself as you're abroad, without having to worry about homework or studying. Summer internships usually run for 10-12 weeks, which means your internship will be brief but packed with valuable projects and helpful trainings, as they won't waste your time with "busy work".
Another good option is interning while you're already studying abroad! Some program providers will offer students the chance to add on an internship, alongside their study abroad program.
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How much does it cost to intern abroad?
The cost of interning abroad depends on whether you apply directly or through a program placement provider, where you choose to intern, and if the internship is paid or not. If you apply independently, you won't have to pay to apply, but you will have to handle logistics, such as purchasing flights, renting an apartment, paying for meals, etc. If you go through a program placement provider, you'll pay a higher price upfront but it will typically cover all of your room and board.
Fortunately, there are plenty of scholarships and financial aid available for students looking for internships abroad!
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Which country is best for interning abroad?
Some of the top countries for interning abroad include Australia, England, Italy, South Africa, and Japan. When deciding where to intern abroad, you should consider what countries specialize in your desired industry, check whether or not that location welcomes international workers, and make sure there isn't a language barrier that may derail your productivity. After all, you're there to gain valuable work experience and grow your industry knowledge!
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