8 Best International Internships in the Asia-Pacific
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The job search after graduation can feel competitive, but gaining hands-on experience before you earn your degree is one of the best ways to stand out. Better yet, why not gain that experience while living in another country?
Employers love internship experience. Employers really love international internship experience. If you're looking to boost your resume while experiencing life in a new country, the Asia-Pacific region is packed with opportunities. From fast-paced global cities to innovative business hubs, these are some of the best internships in Asia-Pacific for students looking to develop professional skills, grow their network, and stand out in a competitive job market.
Read More: What are International Internships? Everything You Need to Know!
Top 8 Global Internships in Asia
If you're looking for a way to gain international work experience while exploring a new part of the world, these global internships in Asia offer the perfect opportunity. From innovative business hubs and technology centers to cultural capitals, these programs are among the best internships in Asia for building career skills, expanding your network, and experiencing life abroad.
1. Summer Global Internship (Tokyo, Japan)
Spend your summer building professional experience in one of the world's most innovative cities. Tokyo offers internship opportunities across industries such as business, technology, marketing, and communications, allowing students to develop in-demand skills while gaining exposure to Japanese workplace culture. Outside of work, you'll explore historic temples, bustling neighborhoods, and globally renowned cuisine, making Tokyo one of the best cities in Asia to do internships in.
- Credit: 6 semester hours /9 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Visit the "Electric Town" of Akihabara
Read More: How to Study Abroad in Japan: 4 Simple Steps
2. Semester Global Internship (Sydney, Australia)
Gain valuable international work experience while living in one of Australia's most iconic cities. Sydney offers internship placements across a variety of industries, giving students the chance to strengthen their professional skills, expand their global network, and experience a thriving coastal city known for its world-class beaches, diverse culture, and high quality of life.
- Credit: 9-13 semester hours /13.5-19.5 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Embark on a journey to Blue Mountains National Park
Read More: Why Study Abroad in Sydney: Top 5 Reasons
3. Semester Intern + Study Abroad (Shanghai, China)
Combine academic coursework with hands-on professional experience in Shanghai, a leading global business center. This program allows students to gain practical industry knowledge while studying abroad, providing meaningful exposure to international companies, emerging markets, and one of the most dynamic economies in the world. For students seeking global internships in Asia, Shanghai offers exceptional career-building opportunities.
- Credit: 12-14 semester hours /18-21 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Step back in time with a visit to Suzhou, a city like a paradise
4. Summer Intern + Study Abroad (Seoul, South Korea)
Spend your summer gaining real-world experience while studying in one of Asia's most exciting cities. Seoul's fast-growing industries, innovative business environment, and global influence in technology, media, and entertainment create an ideal setting for students looking to build their resumes while immersing themselves in South Korean culture.
- Credit: 6-7 semester hours /9-10.5 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace while wearing traditional Korean clothing (Hanbok)
Read More: Why Study Abroad in Seoul: Top 3 Reasons
5. Summer Global Internship (Singapore, Singapore)
As one of the world's leading financial and innovation hubs, Singapore offers students the opportunity to gain professional experience in a highly international environment. Interns can develop valuable workplace skills while exploring a city known for its cultural diversity, modern infrastructure, and strong connections to industries such as finance, technology, and entrepreneurship, making it one of the best cities in Asia to do internships in.
- Credit: 6 semester hours /9 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Visit the world-famous Singapore Zoo, nestled within the lush Mandai rainforest
Read More: Study Abroad Singapore: The Ultimate Guide for Students
6. Semester Intern + Study Abroad (Seoul, South Korea)
Take your international experience further with a semester-long internship and study abroad program in Seoul. Students can deepen their professional knowledge, earn academic credit, and establish meaningful connections while living in a city that seamlessly blends centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge innovation, making it one of the best internships in Asia for long-term personal and professional growth.
- Credit: 12-14 semester hours /18-21 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Take a day trip to the DMZ to gain insights into the history and geopolitical significance of this border
Read More: Study Abroad in South Korea: The Ultimate Guide
7. Summer Global Internship (Auckland, New Zealand)
Build your professional experience in Auckland, a welcoming and globally connected city known for its innovation, diversity, and stunning natural beauty. This summer internship program allows students to develop career-ready skills while enjoying access to outdoor adventures, vibrant urban life, and a supportive international community.
- Credit: 6 semester hours /9 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Take a ferry to Rangitoto Island, Auckland's iconic volcanic gem
Read More: Why Study Abroad in Auckland: Top 5 Reasons
8. Semester Intern + Study Abroad (Taipei, Taiwan)
Experience a unique combination of academics and professional development in Taipei, a city recognized for its entrepreneurial spirit, technological innovation, and rich cultural heritage. Students can gain valuable workplace experience while earning academic credit and exploring everything from bustling night markets to scenic mountain landscapes, making Taipei a standout destination for global internships in Asia.
- Credit: 12-14 semester hours /18-21 quarter hours
- Eligibility: 2.5 Overall GPA
- Featured Excursion: Discover Jiufen, a charming village with winding alleys and traditional tea houses
Read More: Taiwan Study Abroad: The Ultimate Guide for Students
How to Apply for Internships in the Asia-Pacific Region
Wondering how to apply for internships in Asia through CIEE Study Abroad? The process is straightforward:
- Explore programs and choose the destination that aligns with your academic and career goals
- Submit your application through your MY CIEE account
- Meet with a CIEE advisor to discuss your interests, skills, and preferred industry
- Complete required materials, including your resume and any supporting documents
- Interview with potential internship placements
- Finalize your placement and prepare for your experience abroad
- Participate in pre-departure support sessions to get ready for your internship and life overseas
- Start your international internship and gain valuable professional experience abroad
If you've been researching how to apply for internships in Asia, partnering with an established organization like CIEE can make the process easier while providing support before, during, and after your program!
Read More: How to Get an Internship Abroad (4 Easy Steps)
Discover Exciting Global Internships in the Asia-Pacific Region
International internships are more than just a resume boost. They're an opportunity to build professional skills, expand your global network, and experience life in some of the world's most exciting destinations. Whether you're drawn to Tokyo's innovation, Singapore's business scene, Seoul's creativity, or Auckland's unique lifestyle, there are countless opportunities waiting across the region.
Ready to take the next step? Start exploring your options today and discover how one of the best internships in Asia can help you gain global experience, build confidence, and make your resume stand out long after graduation!