Architecture Internships Abroad: 12 Places to Explore Your Career Options

Do you want to explore architecture internships in some of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world? From Europe to Asia, there are many great options available for those who want to expand their horizons and gain international work experience.

Types of Architecture Internships Abroad

• Design Firm: These internships will allow you to work with architects and other design professionals on real projects. You’ll get first-hand experience in the design process and learn about project management, construction methods, and more.
• Historic Preservation: They are perfect for those interested in architecture and history. Interns work with experts to help preserve important historical buildings and sites.
• Construction Management: These internships give you a behind-the-scenes look at the construction process. You’ll learn about project management, safety, and other aspects of construction.
• Urban Planning: They are designed for those interested in the development of cities and communities. Interns work with urban planners to help create plans for new developments, transportation systems, and more.

Architecture Interns’ Responsibilities

Architecture interns are responsible for assisting architects and other professionals with the design and construction of buildings. They may be involved in all aspects of the project, from concept to completion. Interns often work on teams and may be assigned to specific tasks or projects.

Furthermore, architecture interns may be responsible for conducting research, preparing drawings and models, and assisting with the presentation of projects.

12 places to Consider for Architecture Internships Abroad

1.- Paris, France

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Paris is also home to some of the most famous architecture in Europe. If you intern here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore both classic and contemporary architecture. Moreover, Paris is a great place to learn about history and culture.

Companies Hiring Architecture Interns:

• Ateliers Jean Nouvel
• Dominique Perrault Architecture
• Paul Andreu Architecte

Schools for interning:

• The American University of Paris
• The International Union of Architects
• The Prince’s Foundation
• The Centre Pompidou

2.- London, England

London is another popular destination for architecture students and interns. The city is home to a wealth of architectural styles, from medieval to modern. You’ll also have the opportunity to intern with some of the world’s leading architecture firms.

Companies Hiring Architecture Students:

• Zaha Hadid Architects
• Foster + Partners
• Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners
• Bjarke Ingels Group

Schools for interning:

• The Bartlett School of Architecture
• The Architectural Association School of Architecture
• The Royal College of Art
• The University of Greenwich

3.- Architecture Internship in Madrid, Spain

Madrid is a great city for architecture interns, as it offers a mix of traditional and contemporary architecture. You’ll learn about Spanish culture and history. Also, Madrid is a great place to learn the language.

Companies for interning:

• Santiago Calatrava Valls
• Rafael Moneo
• Carlos Ferrater
• Herzog & de Meuron
• Antonio Lamela

Schools for Architecture internships Abroad:

• The Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Madrid
• The Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería de Edificación
• The Escuela Politécnica Superior de la Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
• The Universidad Europea de Madrid
• King Juan Carlos University

4.- Rome, Italy

If you want to intern in a city with a wealth of history and architecture, Rome is the place for you. From ancient ruins to Baroque churches, there’s plenty to explore. Likewise, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Italian culture and cuisine.

Companies for interning:

• Renzo Piano Building Workshop
• Studio Fuksas
• Arata Isozaki & Associates
• Zaha Hadid Architects

Schools for interning:

• The University of Rome “La Sapienza”
• The IUAV – University of Venice
• The Polytechnic University of Turin
• The Polytechnic University of Bari

5.- Florence, Italy

Florence is home to a wealth of Renaissance architecture, as well as many art galleries and museums.

Companies for interning:

• Mario Cucinella Architects
• Cino Zucchi Architetti
• Zaha Hadid Architects

Schools for interning:

• The University of Florence
• The Politecnico di Milano
• The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

6.- Beijing, China

If you want to intern in Asia, Beijing is a great option. The city is home to a mix of traditional and contemporary architecture. Furthermore, Beijing offers interns the opportunity to learn about Chinese culture and history.

Companies for interning:

• Beijing Urban Construction Group
• China State Construction Engineering Corporation
• China Railway Construction Corporation

Schools for interning:

• Beijing Institute of Architectural Design
• The China Central Academy of Fine Arts
• The Beijing Institute of Technology
• Tongji University
• Beijing Jiaotong University

7.- Shanghai, China

Shanghai is another great city for architecture interns in Asia. The city is home to different architectural styles, from Art Deco to postmodern.

Companies for Finding Architecture internships in China:

• Gensler
• Skidmore Owings & Merrills

Schools for interning:

• Shanghai Jiao Tong University
• Fudan University
• Jiangnan University

8.- Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Internships in architecture in Dubai are a fantastic opportunity to learn about both traditional and contemporary styles. You’ll also learn more about Middle Eastern culture and history.

Companies to Apply for Architecture Internships in UAE:

• Foster + Partners
• Aecom
• Perkins+Will

Schools for interning:

• American University of Dubai
• Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus
• The British University in Dubai
• The University of Wollongong in Dubai
• Middlesex University Dubai

9.- Architecture internship in Singapore

Singapore is a top destination for architecture interns, as it offers a mix of traditional and contemporary architecture. You’ll also learn about Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures.

Companies Hiring Interns in Singapore:

• CPG Consultants
• RSP Architects
• DP Architects
• Ong&Ong

Schools for interning:

• The National University of Singapore
• The Nanyang Technological University
• Singapore Institute of Technology
• Temasek Polytechnic
• Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
• Singapore University of Technology and Design
• LASALLE College of the Arts

10.- Sydney, Australia

An internship in Sydney is an excellent opportunity to learn about Australian architecture and culture. The city is home to a mix of traditional and contemporary architecture.

Companies for Finding Architecture Internship in Sydney:

• Woods Bagot
• Populous
• HASSELL
• BVN Donovan Hill

Schools for interning:

• The University of Sydney
• The University of New South Wales
• The University of Technology, Sydney
• University of Newcastle

11.- Cape Town, South Africa

Internships in Cape Town provide a great opportunity to learn about and work on various architectural styles. The city is home to a variety of traditional and modern architecture, making it an excellent location for internship opportunities.

Companies for interning:

• GAPP Architects
• Lifetime Developments
• Enrico Daffonchio Architects
• Mecano ID

Schools for interning:

• The University of Cape Town
• The Cape Peninsula University of Technology
• Central University of Technology
• Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
• Tshwane University of Technology

12.- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

If you want to intern in South America, Rio de Janeiro is a great option. The city is home to a mix of traditional and contemporary architecture. You’ll also learn about Brazilian culture and history.

Companies for interning:

• Arquipélago Arquitetos Associados
• Grupo SP Arquitetos
• Brasil Arquitetura

Schools for interning:

• Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro
• Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro
• Escola da Cidade
• Faculdade Santa Marcelina

Each of these cities has its own unique architecture and history that you can learn about while interning abroad. You’ll also have the opportunity to work with professionals from all over the world and gain valuable experience in the architecture field.

Requirements to Apply for Architecture Internships Abroad

To apply for an architecture internship abroad, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in the field. You should also be proficient in English. Some programs may require you to have a working knowledge of another language, such as Spanish or Mandarin.

Likewise, you’ll need to have a strong interest in architecture and design. Internships are typically unpaid, so you should be prepared to support yourself financially. Lastly, you’ll need to be eligible for a work visa in the country you’re interning. Check with the embassy of the country you’re interested in for more information.

Salary Ranges for Architecture Interns

Architecture interns typically earn minimum wage in the country they’re interning. For example, architecture interns in the United States earn a minimum wage of $15 per hour. In other countries, such as Australia and Singapore, architecture interns typically earn between $500 and $1000 per month. In European countries, architecture interns earn between €500 and €1000 per month; and in Asian countries, architecture interns may receive a stipend of between $500 and $2000 per month.

Housing for Architecture Interns Abroad

Most architecture internships abroad do not include housing. However, some programs may provide housing assistance or connect you with resources to help you find housing. It’s important to research the cost of living in the city you’re interested in and budget accordingly.

Tips for Applying to Architecture Internships Abroad

To increase your chances of being accepted into an architecture internship program, it’s important to have a strong portfolio and resume. Be sure to highlight any relevant work experience or skills you have. You should also include letters of recommendation from professors or past employers.

When applying, be sure to follow the instructions carefully!

Take a look at our Complete Guide to Apply for an Internship Abroad!