Internship programs, career development, networking, resume building

Gone are the days when business was done in the neighborhood. Now we live in an era where business and finance are global. 

To achieve a thriving business career, having international trade knowledge and exposure is paramount, and nothing beats gaining this experience than engaging in business internships abroad!

Internships in international business offer college students and recent graduates a remarkable chance to gain insight into the actual professional environment. Engaging in such internships abroad challenges individuals to surpass their limitations. It allows them to perceive the realm of business (as well as the world at large) through an entirely new perspective.

Before moving on to the top internship programs for the career development of Indian students, let’s look at their benefits.

Exploring the Boundless Benefits of Interning Abroad

• Obtaining practical experience at large and small businesses will enable you to explore and evaluate your chosen career path firsthand.

• By showcasing your abilities through practical experience, you can demonstrate to prospective employers that you possess the necessary skills to excel immediately.

• Establishing connections with employers and colleagues worldwide will expand your professional network and open up a wider range of opportunities for your career advancement.

• By engaging in international business internships, you can cultivate strong intercultural skills and collaborate effectively in diverse teams and navigate across different cultures and time zones.

Quick Tips on Finding the Right Internships Abroad

• If you are interested in politics, international relations, diplomacy, or international development, consider exploring countries like Belgium, Germany, France, and Switzerland.

• Students in the field of fashion and design should explore internship opportunities in major European design capitals such as Milan, Berlin, Paris, Barcelona, and Copenhagen.

• Those seeking opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry can explore positions in resorts, hostels, hotels, and as guides or administrative staff in tour companies. Cities like Barcelona, Paris, Stockholm, Milan, and Berlin offer such opportunities. Additionally, countries like Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand have options in hostels, hotels, restaurants, cafés, and tour companies.

• Individuals interested in humanitarian work, NGOs, community development, health and welfare, education, and small business development can find numerous opportunities in Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Ghana.

• If your interests lie in environmental conservation, marine conservation, wildlife conservation, and eco-tourism, consider seeking internships in Seychelles, Madagascar, and South Africa. For adventurous individuals and outdoor enthusiasts, opportunities can also be found in countries like Brazil, Chile, and Peru in South America, Australia, and New Zealand, and islands such as Fiji in Oceania. It’s important to note that many of these internships are seasonal.

Top Internships for Indian Students Studying Abroad

1. Bank Internship Program (World Bank Internship)

The World Bank extends internship opportunities to ambitious individuals seeking to enhance their skills in a diverse work environment. Eligible applicants must have completed their undergraduate studies and be currently enrolled in a master’s program focusing on fields such as agriculture, economics, human development, private sector development, social science, environment, or finance. 

• Deadline: The Bank Internship Program (BIP) application deadlines are December 1 to January 31 for summer internships and October 1 to October 31 for winter internships.

• Duration: The internship period must be a minimum of four weeks.

• Internship Compensation: Interns receive compensation based on an hourly rate, and they are also provided with USD 3000 to cover their travel expenses. 

2. Caltech SURF

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF), aimed at engineering undergraduates with exceptional academic backgrounds, require applicants first to establish contact with a mentor at Caltech. Following discussions with the mentor, students are required to compose a research proposal outlining their desired project. The Caltech faculty will evaluate the research proposal and award the fellowship based on their assessment.

• Deadline: The application period for the 2023 fellowship will commence in November, with a specific deadline to be announced. Please visit the link for further information about the SURF Caltech Internship.

• Duration: The duration of the program spans up to 10 weeks.

• Internship Compensation: The fellowship provides recipients with an award amount of up to $6,840

3. UNICEF Internship program (fully funded internships)

Students can contribute to the well-being of underprivileged children worldwide through their involvement with UNICEF. To apply for this internship, students must be enrolled in graduate or undergraduate programs relevant to public health and nutrition. Students must be respectful towards diverse cultures, as they will be exposed to various cultural backgrounds during their experience.

• Deadline: The deadline for applying to the UNICEF Nutrition internship is May 18, 2023.

• Duration: The internship lasts seven months, providing an extended period for students to engage in meaningful work.

• Internship Compensation: By participating in this internship, students can collaborate with UNICEF in Ethiopia, immersing themselves in a diverse cultural setting and gaining valuable experience.

4. The Summer Internship Program

The University of Oxford offers a summer internship program that welcomes all current and enrolled students, regardless of nationality. This program provides students with various internship opportunities offered by NGOs or research institutions, which can be conducted remotely or in person, based on the student’s preference.

• Deadline: The program for the Summer Internship Program 2023 will commence on May 22, 2023. Interested individuals can apply for the program by following the application process.

• Duration: The duration of these internships varies, ranging from 2 to 12 weeks, allowing students to engage in meaningful experiences of varying lengths.

• Internship Compensation: Internship value may include a stipend and assistance with travel or accommodation expenses, although specific details may vary depending on the internship placement.

5. OECD Internship in Paris, France

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), an international organization, offers internships to full-time students pursuing fields related to the work of the OECD. These internships provide students with the opportunity to work in an international environment. Applicants need to have a strong command of either English or French.

• Deadline: Unlike specific application deadlines, the OECD internship program is open throughout the year, allowing interested individuals to apply at any time based on their availability and interests.

• Duration: The internship can range from 1 to 6 months, allowing interns to gain valuable experience and contribute to the work of the OECD for a significant period.

• Internship Compensation: Interns participating in the program will receive a monthly stipend of up to 700 Euros to cover living expenses during the internship period.

6. UK Visiting fellowships

The Nehru Trust for Indian Collections at the V&A Museum (NTICVA) offers the UK Visiting Fellowship scheme, which enables Indian citizens or students to conduct research in the United Kingdom. This collaborative program works with the Charles Wallace Trust, and the fellowships occur at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Applicants have the opportunity to choose their preferred research institution within the UK.

• Application Deadline: The application deadline for each year is February 15.

• Fellowship Benefits: The fellowship covers the expenses of selected candidates during their stay in the UK, including airfare.

• Fellowship Duration: The fellowship lasts for a period ranging from 1 to 3 months.

7. ADB Internship Program

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) offers an internship program twice a year, providing graduate students with research project opportunities to gain experience. Intern selection is based on performance in assignments posted on the ADB website during the application period. Applicants must be pursuing a master’s or PhD degree.

Internship value: Besides gaining valuable experience, selected students will receive a stipend. Further details regarding the stipend will be discussed during the application process.

• Duration: The internship program spans a period of 8 to 11 weeks.

8. Go Abroad China’s program

China, known for its thriving business environment and lucrative market, consistently presents abundant opportunities. For those seeking to gain finance experience, Go Abroad China offers an internship program that allows participants to collaborate with leading Chinese companies and accounting firms while learning about Asian business practices and management.

Interns in Go Abroad China’s program have the opportunity to actively contribute to business projects focused on financial planning, making a substantial impact. The program also includes Chinese language classes, equipping interns with the skills to excel in their internship and future business endeavors.

Thought on The Topic

Finance and business students that intern abroad gain priceless global experience and a stronger comprehension of international business practices. Students can gain valuable experience and a competitive edge in the finance and business industries by participating in a wide range of international internship opportunities, whether in financial hubs, multinational corporations, consulting firms, trade organisations, emerging markets, social impact initiatives, or startups. By taking advantage of these chances, students.

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