Does Studying Abroad Affect Internship Applications?

It would not be wrong to say that learning key skills and gaining specialised knowledge from a study program abroad does improve the prospects of landing an internship for overseas students. Most employers globally are on the lookout for aspiring professionals with valuable soft skills, specialised knowledge, and hands-on learning that can be directly applied to everyday work environments.  

Here are some ways studying abroad can significantly improve your chances of securing an internship:

• It improves your linguistic skills: Studying abroad makes you proficient in English, both verbally and in writing, which makes you more attractive to employers worldwide. 

• It helps build soft skills: Pursuing higher education overseas helps improve your soft skills, including responsibility, adaptability, and flexibility, which are highly valued and in demand during job interviews and internships. 

• It improves scope for networking: You end up making connections with numerous students, peers, faculty, mentors, and industry experts, all of which create immense scope for networking when seeking prospects for an internship.

Some of the specific challenges that many Indian students face when applying for an internship abroad include cultural limitations, visa restrictions, and financial constraints. Some of the significant challenges are as follows

• Visa constraints: The study visa requirements for different countries vary, specifying different conditions for international students to work in the country alongside their studies. Most countries allow Indian students abroad to work only up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. 

This means that pursuing an internship while studying abroad may require you to adhere to specific work restrictions. After completing the study program, too, you would need to check the provisions of your visa to pursue an internship.   

• Cultural differences: Different countries have distinct cultural norms and work ethics, which Indian students may sometimes find challenging to adapt to. Proficiency in the English language or other specific languages (for some countries) may also pose a challenge. 

• Financial limitations: Effectively managing finances in a new country, particularly with unfamiliar currencies, can be pretty challenging. Additionally, as part of the internship program, students may need to use public transportation or book accommodations, all of which can contribute to living expenses abroad.   

Australia, the UK, and Canada, among others, are among the top countries that offer the best internship support to international students after completing their studies abroad. Listed below are some of the other top countries that international students prefer for their strong internship programs, along with the names of the internships and the application deadline for the same:

Some of the most helpful ways to boost your internship prospects after completing studies abroad are to network proactively, prepare thoroughly for the internship program during your study term, and familiarise yourself with the cultural norms and practices of the country you are targeting. 

Listed below are some other best tips that can help maximise your internship opportunities overseas:

• Be enthusiastic: Enthusiasm can take you a long way in your career path. Maintain a positive, can-do attitude and consistently show enthusiasm at work. Also, taking initiative and responsibility for tasks helps bring you in a positive light and furthers your career progression.

• Document your learning and progress: This would help you stay on track and make necessary changes or improvements to tread forward. Documenting your learnings in the internship program will help you avoid repeating the same mistakes, and making note of your progress will motivate you to keep moving forward. 

• Network proactively: Building your network is one of the best practices to follow when pursuing an internship program. It would help open doors to more promising job opportunities ahead and build meaningful connections with the people who matter. 

Before pursuing study-abroad internship programs, preparing to study overseas is the first step. Take that first step without a worry with the experts who know it all! IDP Education consultants are one of the best-known study-abroad consultancies in India with over 55 years of experience in the overseas education sector. We have helped millions of students find suitable study and work opportunities abroad, and we would love to help you next.

From choosing the best study-abroad destination to finding the top universities and courses that well align with your career goals, IDP helps you every step of the way. Furthermore, our experts will guide you through the university and study visa application processes, ensuring the highest chances of acceptance. 

1. Is studying abroad worth it for internships for international students?

Yes, studying overseas provides ample global exposure and helps you better understand diverse perspectives. This helps improve skills, gain specialised knowledge, and also build confidence and adaptability, all of which are valued in internship programs.

2. How do foreign grades impact chances of internship?

Grades obtained in a study-abroad program may be essential, but they are not the sole determinant of an internship prospect. A student’s practical skills, experience, and relevant projects completed in the area are generally more valued by employers.

3. What visas do I need for an internship abroad?

You generally need a student visa for the country where you have applied for the internship. Some countries may also require a specific internship visa. Please check at the time of application.

4. When should I apply for foreign internships?

It is best to start applying for an internship program abroad at least two to three months before its ideal start date. In some cases, it is advisable to start researching and using at least six months in advance to find a suitable opportunity.

5. How do time zones affect interview scheduling?

Different time zones may sometimes create complexities in scheduling interviews with eligible candidates for foreign internship programs. It is thus essential to ensure proper communication with the involved parties to avoid any unnecessary confusion between the interviewer and the interviewee.

6. Do abroad internships for Indian students count as work experience?

Of course! Completing an internship program abroad counts as work experience for the intern, providing them with valuable professional experience, knowledge, and specialized skills, which are highly preferred by future employers for job roles.

7. Are there specific countries best for internships?

Yes, countries such as the USA, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand offer robust internship programs for international students.

8. Will an international internship lead to a job?

Although no internship can guarantee employment for any candidate, and it entirely depends on their knowledge and skills, pursuing an internship abroad can benefit eligible applicants. Interning abroad equips students with valuable skills and knowledge that are highly sought after by employers worldwide.