aerial view of cape town south africa coast
Cape Town, South Africa

Summer Global Internship

Study Program Full-Time Internship

Dates

-

8 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 semester hours

9 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

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Overview

Have you ever imagined gaining work experience in one of the world's most beautiful yet economically and socially divided global cities? Look no further than the proud, diverse, and major commercial center of South Africa: Cape Town! Cape Town's emerging global economy faces many challenges, including its power supply, labor force, and inequality. Despite its challenges, this incredible South African port city regularly ranks as one of the top tourist destinations in the world, with stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and fantastic wildlife within its city limits.

Following our personalized placement process, CIEE Cape Town staff will work with you directly to connect you with the right opportunity. From entrepreneurship to education, you will gain real-world work experience that suits your unique academic needs and professional goals. When you're not working and learning, you'll have time to explore Cape Town's memorable scenery, watersports, and nightlife in this multilingual, multicultural, student-friendly environment. Cape Town's complexity, diversity, and natural beauty will make an exceptional backdrop for your unforgettable global internship!

Unique Experiences

TAKE A CABLE CAR

to the top of Table Mountain, a flat topped mountain offering gorgeous views of the city and the South Atlantic Ocean.

SPEND YOUR SUMMER INTERNING

in a location recently named the most entrepreneurial city in South Africa.

FOLLOW THE LEAD OF LOCALS

and take advantage of Cape Town’s lush outdoors: hike, mountain bike, surf and swim.

3,000

MARINE CREATURES AT THE TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM

29K

STUDENTS AT UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN

35K

CYCLISTS PARTICIPATE IN THE CAPE TOWN CYCLE TOUR

Experience
  • cape town students pose with south africa sign ocean
  • students abroad cape town cooking class

Your Destination

Against the backdrop of the towering Table Mountain, people from different backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities call Cape Town home. The city serves as a commercial and industrial entry point to Africa and houses regional headquarters for many companies, nonprofits, and NGOs.  Cape Town is Africa’s most popular destination for many reasons, starting with its glorious climate and natural attractions – from Table Mountain to stunning beaches. Situated on the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town is a vibrant multicultural city with a rich selection of day and night activities. The city is also a microcosm of the challenges facing many African countries in transition – how to successfully operate within a global economy while grappling with the vast socioeconomic inequalities that are the legacy of the colonial and apartheid past. 

Cape Town’s Mediterranean climate means the months from May to July bring cool days and some rain.  Daily high temperatures are around 64° F, rarely falling below 57° F or exceeding 72° F. This program operates during the "secret season,” Cape Town’s winter. 

Learn more about Cape Town and see past internship examples »

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Cape Town.

The Culture

botanical gardens abroad cape town

OTHER EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES

  • Visit the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, built on top of the docks at the Port of Cape Town. It is the city's most visited tourist attraction, and a popular shopping venue. 
  • Walk through the beautiful Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, a famous botanical garden nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain.  
  • Join a local family for Sunday lunch. Understand more about South Africa’s past on a trip to Robben Island.
  • Learn about the ‘Economics of wine’ while visiting South Africa’s oldest wine farm.
cape town ciee students networking event

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

  • Learn resume writing best practices and gain interview skills based on local business culture 
  • Explore the professional world of Cape Town through site visits and guest lectures 
  • Participate in classes and workshops that will help you make the most of your internship

Program Blogs

From CIEE

The Cape Seal of Approval

By Cape Town Centre at CIEE

Authored by Kai Edem (she/her) (Kai is a second-year undergraduate student at Agnes Scott College, majoring in Neuroscience. She is excited to discover more about research opportunities available during her... keep reading

From CIEE

Interning in a Township: Prepare to Be Unprepared

By Cape Town Centre at CIEE

Authored by Destiny Daniel (she/her) (Destiny is a senior at Howard University studying Communications and Maternal & Child Health. She loves to watch reality TV and explore her creativity. She... keep reading

From CIEE

Deconstructing the Term "Township"

By Cape Town Centre at CIEE

Authored by Jordyn Hoff (she/her) (Jordyn is a graduating junior at Arizona State University studying Nonprofit Leadership & Management. She is set to serve in the PeaceCorps after graduation as... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • "It is great opportunity for deaf students who can get it with full access"

    Angie B., Gallaudet University

Housing
Academics

Academics

As a global intern in Cape Town, you’ll work full time in a non-paying position within a wide range of opportunities across a diverse set of innovative industries. Extra-curricular cultural activities in and around Cape Town complement your coursework and immerse you in the history and culture of the city. 

This eight-week program includes a full-time internship and an integrated online academic course.  

• All internship placements are offered in English.
• Students should expect to spend approximately 30 -37 hours per week engaged in internship work and an additional 5 - 6 hours per week on academic course work.

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Rising Sophomore standing and above required at time of participation.

Additional visa restrictions may apply and CIEE will advise students as part of the early application process.

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Requirements

Students participate in an academic course taught in a hybrid learning environment alongside the eight-week, full-time internship. Participation in the integrated academic course and internship are mandatory for all participants.

Program Credit

Total credit: 6 U.S. semester/9 quarter credits

Course Credit

Internship: 6 U.S. semester/9 quarter credits; 15 integrated academic course hours, 225-300 internship placement hours

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Academic Culture

Students are expected to dress and behave professionally throughout their internship project and are subject to the agreed-upon internship protocols arranged by CIEE and the host organizations. The academic course is designed to prepare students for leadership in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse workforce.

Class Format

Students participate in an eight-week CIEE full-time internship and academic course taught weekly. Class and/or work hours are scheduled Monday-Friday, and attendance is strictly enforced for all. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel away from the city when classes are in session.

Grading

Students will be assessed via assignments and activities related to the academic course, including but not limited to: online discussion forums, reflective papers, individual or group presentations, analysis of readings, an internship work plan, and feedback from internship supervisor. Internship supervisors and students each provide written evaluations of progress towards goals.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Internship Opportunities

Gain real-world work experience, grow your professional network, and bolster your resume while interning at research institutions, NGOs, non-profits, and more in Cape Town. Search for a more detailed list of internship opportunities.

STEM: Science, Tech, Engineering, and Math  
Research institutions and universities.

Marketing, Communications, Advertising, Print & Digital Journalism, and Publishing  
Social media, events, advertising, journalism, public relations, and video production.

Hospitality and Tourism  
Hotels, tours, and tourist destinations.

NGOs and Non-profits  
Public health, education, and law. 

Education 
Early childhood education and universities.  
 

Note: Please keep in mind that securing a spot in any of these opportunities is not automatically guaranteed and depends on availability and the internship host organization's decision. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The internships, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development.

Courses

Course Information

Summer Session II 2024

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE Stem Scholarship

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Summer 2024 8 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $7,450

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300

Educational Costs = $4,453

Housing = $2,500

Insurance = $197

Total Fees = $7,450

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $520

International Airfare = $1,450

Local Transportation = $500

Personal expenses = $150

Other = $80

Total Costs = $2,700

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Nompilo Ndlovu

Center Director

Dr. Nompilo Ndlovu has over a decade of experience working within the academic, policy and non-profit sectors, focused on the African continent.

Shalom Chitanda

Student Life Coordinator

Shalom is a two-time graduate of the University of Cape Town, with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a B.A. in History and Law. She currently holds the portfolio of...

Caleb Kay

Student Life Coordinator

Caleb has a degree in Political Science, Governance, and Sociology from the University of Cape Town.

Max Hoffenberg 

Academic Coordinator

Max graduated from the University of Cape Town with majors in Environmental/Geographical Science and Media Writing/Journalism.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

START AN APPLICATION
You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

CONNECT WITH YOUR CAMPUS STUDY ABROAD OFFICE 
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

CONTACT
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info