Internships Abroad for Indian Students: Benefits, Tips and More

Also Check: Internship Certificates 

Benefits of International Scholarships for Indian Students

International internships can provide valuable learning experiences and exposure to different cultures and working environments for Indian students. There are other benefits for Indian students finding an internship abroad and they are as follows: 

• Experience working in a multicultural environment is an added advantage for Indian students interning abroad. 
• Get to explore a new country, travel and understand the people, work ethics and how people conduct themselves professionally. 
• Learning a new language if the language is alien to the Indian student while pursuing an internship abroad. 
• With experience of an internship abroad, can prove to be an added advantage for applicants in future when applying for full-time jobs. 
• Finally, through internships, one can increase one's professional network which in turn can be fruitful in future. 

Also, it is not necessary for the Indian applicant to go to a foreign country only in order to complete an international internship. MNCs are scattered all over India and applicants can choose to apply to any of the offices in preferable Indian states only like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, etc. 

Types of Internships Abroad 

Broadly, there are four types of internships offered abroad for Indian students. These include free internships, paid internships, non-paid internships or co-op programs (internships). Indian students are eligible for all three types of internships abroad, but there are certain implications attached to it. Check out in detail about the types of internships abroad for Indian students:  

Free Internships Abroad 

These are internships which are easy on the pocket and are debt-free for Indian students. Students who spend on going to foreign countries for an internship have to incur some amount like amounts on travelling, visa application fees and in some cases living expenditures as well. While some costs may be covered through scholarships and some extra costs can be curbed through applying independently instead of some high-priced agencies. You can also explore free online internships with a certificate. 

Paid Internships for Indian Students Abroad

There are some internships abroad which offer students a stipend or monthly salary for interning with companies abroad. Through paid internships abroad, Indian students can understand how to spend and manage their expenses. Paid internships may not be exuberant with the salaries but whatever is offered is plausible in terms of proper work experience for Indian students.  

Non-Paid Internships Abroad for Indians 

There are also non-paid internships abroad for Indian students. These are basically for students to have hands-on experience professionally and understand the know-how of a professional setting. Students can opt for non-paid internships abroad if necessary or if it is necessary to complete one for the sake of the course they are pursuing.  

Co-op Programs for Indian Origin Students 

Co-op programs commonly referred to as cooperative education is a unique way to make classroom learning better through on-field practical training. Thus, students enrolled in various universities around the world can avail the benefits of cooperative education. Usually, the university partners with employers or academic institutions to offer its students with cooperative education. However, there is a slight difference between internship and co-op programs. 

Tips to Find an Internship Abroad?

There are different ways of hunting for an internship abroad, this can be through websites, professional networking sites or through recommendations. Following are some of the options to consider while seeking international internships abroad as an Indian student: 

1. University Exchange Programs: Many universities have exchange programs or partnerships with institutions abroad, offering opportunities for students to participate in internships. 
2. Professional Organizations and Companies: Some professional organizations or multinational companies offer international internship programs specifically for students. Research organizations or companies in your field of interest to see if they have such programs available. 
3. Government Initiatives: Some governments, such as the Indian government, may have initiatives that facilitate international internships for students. Explore programs like the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships or the Global Initiative for Academic Networks (GIAN) for potential internship opportunities. 
4. Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofit organizations and NGOs often offer internships with an international focus. These internships can be found in various sectors, including international development, human rights, environmental conservation, and more. Research organizations that align with your interests and inquire about their internship programs. 
5. Online Platforms and Internship Portals: Several online platforms and internship portals cater to connecting students with international internship opportunities. Websites like Internshala, AIESEC, GoAbroad, and Global Experiences provide listings of international internships across different countries and industries. 
6. Networking and Personal Connections: Utilize your network and connections to explore international internship opportunities. Reach out to professionals, alumni, or family friends who may have connections abroad and could potentially assist you in finding internships. 

Remember to conduct thorough research, stay proactive in your search, and apply well in advance to increase your chances of securing an international internship opportunity. 

Top Companies for Interning Abroad 

There are a couple of top companies for interning abroad as per popular choice. Check out below for the top companies and the kind of internship roles they offer to international students: 

Top Companies for Interning Abroad	Areas of Internship Roles Offered
JP Morgan	Investment Banking  Sales & Trading  Asset Management  Finance  Human Resources  Operations
Google	Product Management  Technical Internships
BMW	Engineering  Business  Computer Science  Marketing
Novartis	Medicine  Chemistry  Biology  Business Administration  Engineering
Unilever	Marketing  Finance  Human Resources  IT
L’Oreal	Management  Product Development  Marketing
Goldman Sachs	Investment Banking  Analysts

When applying for international internships, make sure to carefully review the application requirements, visa regulations, and any financial implications involved. Additionally, consider factors such as accommodation, living expenses, and travel arrangements when planning for an international internship experience. 

That's all about the topic. We hope that you have learnt a lot and the information will help you to find a suitable internship program for yourself. If you have any queries related to this topic, we will be happy to answer them. You can drop your question in the comment section below or connect with Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors.