How to Simultaneously Study & Intern Abroad
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Studying abroad doesn’t mean pressing pause on your career goals. In fact, it can be the opposite. Many students are choosing to study and intern abroad at the same time: Earning academic credit while gaining hands-on, real-world experience in an international setting. If you’re looking to build your resume and explore the world, this path might be exactly what you’re looking for!
Read More: Top 4 Benefits of an Internship Abroad
Can You Do an Internship While Studying Abroad?
If you’ve ever wondered, “can I do an internship while studying abroad”, the answer is absolutely – and it’s one of the smartest ways to maximize your time overseas.
Combining academics with an internship allows students to apply what they’re learning in class to real professional environments, often in global industries. You can gain international work experience, build cross-cultural communication skills, and expand your professional network – all while earning college credit. For students thinking about life after graduation, this kind of experience stands out to employers and graduate programs alike.
Read More: Study Abroad vs. Internship: Which is Better?
How to Study & Intern Abroad at the Same Time
The process is more straightforward than you might think. Here’s how to get started.
Step #1: Explore Integrated Study and Intern Abroad Programs
Start by researching integrated study abroad and internship options. Many programs are designed specifically for students who want to balance coursework with a part-time internship. Typically, students take one or two classes while completing an internship aligned with their academic or career interests.
CIEE offers a variety of study abroad programs with internships during both the summer and semester, making it easier to find an option that fits your schedule and goals.
Read More: The Top 10 Summer Internships Abroad of 2026
Step #2: Connect with Your University’s Study Abroad Office
Your study abroad advisor is one of your best resources. They can help you understand how credits will transfer, whether your internship can count toward major or elective requirements, and what approvals you may need from your department or university.
Meeting early helps ensure your experience abroad stays on track academically.
Step #3: Apply for Your Preferred Study & Intern Abroad Program
Once you’ve chosen a program, it’s time to apply. Applications typically require basic personal information, academic history, and sometimes a resume or statement of interest explaining your internship goals.
When applying, keep your long-term goals in mind – think about the skills you want to gain and how the internship fits into your future plans. To enroll in a CIEE internship program, our enrollment team will guide you through our personal placement process to help explore goal-setting and establish the right internship placement for you.
Read More: What are Your Goals for Studying Abroad?
Step #4: Understand Visa and Legal Requirements
After acceptance, you’ll need to prepare for visa and legal requirements for your destination country. Some internships require specific visa permissions, so it’s important to review these details early.
You may also need to apply for a passport or renew an existing one. Planning ahead gives you plenty of time to complete paperwork without unnecessary stress.
Read More: The Study Abroad Visa Process: A Simple Guide for Students
Step #5: Seek Financial Aid & Scholarships
Studying and interning abroad can be more affordable than you might expect. Scholarship opportunities and financial aid are available to help offset costs.
CIEE awards millions annually in funding to help students make their study abroad dreams come true – and applying takes just 15 minutes! Even better, when you apply, you’ll automatically be considered for all awards you may be eligible for, such as:
- Merit scholarships
- Need-based grants
- Program-specific awards
The good news is, you can even complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your CIEE application before you apply to a CIEE program!
Read More: How to Apply to a Study Abroad Scholarship at CIEE (4 Steps)
Step #6: Enjoy Your Internship & Study Abroad Experience!
Once you’re abroad, take full advantage of the experience. Learn from your internship placement, network with all the professionals you meet in your host company, engage in your classes, and explore your host city. This is your chance to grow personally and professionally – don’t forget to enjoy it!
Check Out Popular Intern & Study Abroad Programs
Looking for inspiration? Here are a few popular study abroad programs with internships students love:
1. Tokyo Summer Intern + Study Abroad
Sample internship placements in Tokyo:
- AI/Robotics Software Engineering Intern
- Game Developer Intern
- PR Marketing Assistant Intern
2. London Semester Intern + Study Abroad
Sample internship placements in London:
- Climate Finance & Market Research Intern
- Fashion PR Intern
- STEM/Materials Science & Irrigation Modeling Intern
3. Barcelona Summer Intern + Study Abroad
Sample internship placements in Barcelona:
- Aerospace Engineering Intern
- English Teaching Assistant Intern
- Mobile App Development and UX Intern
4. Seoul Semester Intern + Study Abroad
Sample internship placements in Seoul:
- Business Strategy & Operations Intern
- Product Design Intern
- Social Media Marketing Intern
5. Paris Summer Intern + Study Abroad
Sample internship placements in Paris:
- Art and Communications Intern
- Ethical Fashion Startup Business and Communication Intern
- Video Editing Intern
Each CIEE location offers unique academic opportunities, diverse industries, and exciting cultural experiences. See for yourself!
Explore Dual Study Abroad & Internship Programs with CIEE
A study abroad experience becomes even more impactful when paired with real-world work applications. Interning while you study allows you to learn inside and outside the classroom, connect with professionals across cultures, and gain experience that translates long after you return home.
With CIEE’s Intern + Study Abroad programs, students can explore the world while moving their academic and career goals forward at the same time. Discover what’s possible!