For decades, studying abroad has been the go-to option for students looking to experience life in a different country. Backpacking and volunteering have also remained popular for young people to broaden their horizons and gain cultural exposure. While each of these experiences has its value, a growing number of savvy college students and recent graduates are turning to something more professionally rewarding: international internships.
The Rise of International Internships.
In today’s competitive job market and global economy, international work experience is more crucial than ever. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), internships abroad have steadily increased in popularity since 2018, particularly among students seeking both cultural immersion and career development.
A 2023 report by NAFSA: Association of International Educators shows that more than 25,000 U.S. students participated in credit-bearing international internships in the 2022–2023 academic year, which is a 52% increase from pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, non-credit internships abroad have surged as well, as more students pursue these opportunities during gap years or post-graduation.
Why Choose an Internship Abroad Over Studying Abroad?
Many students still study abroad — nearly 300,000 U.S. students did so in the last academic year — but the benefits of interning abroad extend beyond academics. Unlike traditional study-abroad programs, internships abroad offer real-world experience in a global workplace, helping participants develop marketable skills and build international professional networks.
Here’s how international internships offer a competitive edge:
- Hands-On Work Experience: Interns are placed with reputable companies or NGOs in industries like marketing, finance, engineering, and international development.
- Global Networking: Working abroad allows interns to form connections with industry professionals across borders.
- Cultural Intelligence: Interns gain daily exposure to different cultural norms and communication styles.
- Language Acquisition: Many internship programs offer optional language courses — a major bonus in a multilingual job market.
- Career Preparation: Internships help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application in an international context.
How International Internship Programs Work.
At The Intern Group, we place students and graduates in internships in cities like London, Madrid, Hong Kong, and Medellin. These programs focus on more than just work — they offer a holistic cultural experience.
Interns typically benefit from:
- Pre-arranged housing
- Professional mentorship
- Cultural excursions and weekend trips
- Resume and interview coaching
This combination of professional and personal growth makes the experience both enriching and practical.
ROI: Are International Internships Worth the Cost?
While internship programs can require a financial investment, many students see them as a strategic career move. According to the British Council's "Culture at Work" report, which surveyed over 360 employers across nine countries, employers increasingly value international experience and cross-cultural communication skills — two traits that global internships directly cultivate.
In fact, students with internship experience are 20% more likely to land a full-time job compared to those without, based on a study from NACE.
Melanie Vuynovich, spokeswoman for global education company Intrax, said it best: “It used to be that a company would train you and then transfer you overseas. Now, students intern abroad because they need it. Global understanding indicates maturity, and employers notice.”
An international internship isn’t just an alternative to studying abroad — it’s a smarter, career-focused choice. It provides students with global work experience, language skills, and intercultural competence, all of which are critical in an increasingly interconnected world.
If you’re ready to travel with a purpose and set yourself apart in today’s global job market, an international internship might just be your next best step.
