Gap Year Internships Abroad: Become a Global Citizen!

Gap Year internships abroad are an excellent option if you seek a thrilling and distinctive experience! Not only will you explore a new country, but you’ll also get valuable work experience. Here are 10 great locations to consider for your next Gap Year internship!

What Is a Gap Year?

A Gap Year is a period of time, typically between high school and college, when students take time off to pursue other interests. Although fresh graduate students can benefit from this experience, as well.

A gap year can be planned or unplanned. Some students will travel to learn a foreign language or work in another country, while others will stay home and work to make money during their holiday.

A gap year is not considered a non-traditional experience for most students. Non-traditional students are in their 20s and may work full-time while enrolled in college. Gap year students would only spend a few months or a couple of years between their high school and university education rather than being placed into a non-traditional student category.

How to Choose the Right Gap Year Internship

When choosing a Gap Year internship, you should keep a few things in mind. First, consider what type of experience you’re looking for. Do you want to volunteer, work, or study? Second, think about where you want to go. Finally, research the organization you’re interested in to ensure it’s reputable.

Types of Gap Programs

With a gap year, you may work for a business, volunteer with an organization, or even teach English! Consider what type of experience you require and investigate Gap Year programs in that sector.

Volunteering

Volunteering is one of the most popular Gap Year activities. You can volunteer, from building homes to assisting at an animal shelter.

Teaching English

If you love working with children and want to share your language skills, teaching English may be the perfect Gap Year activity for you!

Doing an Internship

Internships are a great option if you’re looking for a more traditional Gap Year experience. You can gain work experience in your chosen field. Gap Year internships are often unpaid, but you may be able to receive academic credit.

Working Holiday Programs

Working holiday visas are a fantastic method to earn money while traveling. You can work in a variety of sectors, including hospitality and construction.

Working for a Business

Gap Year internships abroad are also available in the business sector! You can work for a start-up, an NGO, or a corporation.

Benefits of a Gap Year Abroad

Gain valuable work experience
Develop new skills
Make a difference in the world
Learn about new cultures
Improve your language skills
Build your resume
Earn money to finance your travels
Make new friends from all over the world
Experimenting with possible careers path

Disadvantages of Taking a Gap Year

Cost: One of the main disadvantages of taking a Gap Year is the cost. Gap Year programs can be expensive, and you may need to take out loans to finance your experience.
Time Commitment: Another disadvantage of a Gap Year is the time commitment. Gap Years typically last at least several months, so you’ll need to be prepared to be away from home for an extended period of time.
Health and Safety: Such programs can be located in remote or dangerous areas. Make sure you research the location of your program and the safety precautions that are in place.
Emotional: Gap Years can be emotionally challenging. You may miss your family and friends, and you may feel homesick at times.

Gap Year Internship Opportunities by Country

1. Spain

Spain is a popular choice for Gap Year volunteers. You’ll have an incredible experience in this beautiful land with its varied topography and rich culture! Gap Year internships are available in several sectors, including business, hospitality, and education.

Some popular Gap Year programs in Spain include:

Amigos de las Americas: This program places volunteers in underdeveloped areas of Latin America to help with community development projects.
Habitat for Humanity: As a Gap Year intern with Habitat for Humanity, you’ll help build homes for families in need.
International Volunteer HQ: IVHQ offers Gap Year internships in business, healthcare, and education.

2. France

France is another excellent option for Gap Year interns. From the picturesque streets of Paris to the stunning beaches of the French Riviera, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country! France’s most popular Gap Year activities include interning with a fashion house in Paris, working as a château au pair, or volunteering with an environmental organization.

Au Pair in America: This program places Gap Year interns as au pairs with families in the United States.
BUNAC: It provides internships and volunteer roles in various fields, including business, education, and healthcare.
Greenheart Travel: Internships in hospitality, event planning, and marketing are available through the Paris Experience.

3. Ireland

Gap Year interns in Ireland can expect to experience the country’s rich history and culture. With its rolling green hills and charming villages, Ireland is a truly magical place!

Internships in Ireland for gap year students are available in environmentalism, business, and hospitality.

Gap Force: This Gap Year program offers construction, healthcare, and childcare internships.
Irish Volunteers Overseas: IVO provides Gap Year internship opportunities in business, education, and healthcare.
Love Volunteers: Gap Year internships with this organization are available in business, marketing, and event planning.

4. Australia

Gap Year students looking for an adventure should consider Australia as a fantastic choice. You’ll undoubtedly discover something you enjoy with its numerous terrains and activities!

There are a number of Gap Year internships in Australia, including:

Australian Internships: AI offers internships in a wide range of industries, including business, hospitality, and education.
Gap 360: It offers internships in a variety of fields, including construction, media, and healthcare.
Work the World: This organization offers Gap Year internships in healthcare, education, and social work.

5. New Zealand

Gap Year students who want to get away from it all should head to New Zealand. With its breathtaking vistas and kind people, you’re likely to have an incredible time!

Gap Year New Zealand: This program offers Gap Year internships in a variety of fields, including construction, media, and healthcare.
New Zealand Internships: It provides internships for gap year students in business, marketing, and event planning.
Work and Volunteer New Zealand: WVNZ offers Gap Year internships in healthcare, education, and social work.

6. Italy

If you’re looking for a Gap Year experience that combines culture and fun, Italy is the perfect place for you! From the canals of Venice to the art of Florence, there’s so much to see and do in this beautiful country. Gap Year internships in Italy are available in several sectors, including business, hospitality, and education.

Popular Gap Year programs in Italy include:

Education First: It provides students with the knowledge and skills to master Italian thoroughly, but they will also have the opportunity to learn more about your favorite topics, such as art, fashion, and history.
CIEE: CIE Européenne, a branch of CIE International that focuses on exchange programs and internships in Europe, offers programs in Italy in healthcare, education, and social work.
Internships Italy: Internships for gap year students are available in IT, communications, tourism, and graphic design.

7. Germany

German internships give you the opportunity to explore a fascinating culture and historical past. This country has something for everyone, from world-class cities to stunning countryside!

Gap Year internships in Germany are available in some industries, including business, hospitality, and education.

AIESEC is a global organization offering Gap Year internships in business, marketing, and event planning.
Gapforce provides Gap Year internships in construction, healthcare, and childcare.
InterExchange offers Gap Year internships in various industries, including hospitality and education.

8. China

Interns in China during the Gap Year will have the chance to learn more about a fascinating and ancient culture. You’re bound to discover something that appeals to you from Beijing to Shanghai to Hong Kong!

China Internship Placements: If you’re searching for a place to go and intern in China, International Internship Placements is an excellent source of information. We provide programs in different areas, including finance, IT, marketing, hospitality, engineering, web development, and human resources.
CRCC Asia: It is also a leading global provider of internships abroad in China, Japan, Vietnam, South Korea, and the UK in highly competitive job markets.
Hutong School: Professional experience may be obtained in Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Qingdao, Chongqing, or Zhengzhou.

9. India

Gap Year interns in India will have the opportunity to experience a truly diverse culture. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the tranquil beaches of Goa, there’s something for everyone in this amazing country!

GVI: It offers Gap Year internships in conservation, healthcare, and community development.
Action India: AI provides Gap Year internships in human rights, education, and media.
VSO India: VSO provides Gap Year internships in healthcare, education, and social work.

10. South Africa

Interns will have the opportunity to visit a genuinely varied culture on Gap Year in South Africa. From Cape Town’s lively metropolis to Kruger National Park’s beautiful vistas, there’s something for everyone in this breathtaking nation!

The South African National Council for the Blind: SANCB provides Gap Year internships in healthcare, education, and social work.
Gap Medics: Gap Medics provides Gap Year internships in healthcare.
International Volunteer HQ: It offers a huge range of trusted South Africa volunteer projects, such as Teaching, Sports Development, Surf, Skate & Swim, Kindergarten, and Wildlife Conservation. Volunteer opportunities in South Africa are based in the Cape Town neighborhoods of Muizenberg, Table View, and the renowned Kruger National Park.

Organizations That Offer Gap Year Internships Abroad

Many different organizations offer Gap Year internships abroad. Do your research to find the perfect organization for you!

VolunteerMatch: If you’re interested in volunteering abroad, VolunteerMatch is a fantastic site to visit. You may search for volunteer opportunities by region and sort of work.
Intern Abroad HQ: This website connects individuals with internships in foreign countries. They provide internships in numerous sectors, such as business, education, and sustainability.
Go Overseas: Overseas is a comprehensive site with various Gap Year programs. Internships, volunteer opportunities, and even employment as a Gap Year student are all available for your search.

Application Process for Gap Year Internships Abroad

When you’re applying for Gap Year internships abroad, be sure to research the organization and the program thoroughly. This will help you ensure that you’re a good fit for the position and that the organization is reputable.

The application process for Gap Year internships abroad varies depending on the organization. However, most organizations will require you to submit an online application, CV, and cover letter.

Also, you need to include relevant information about your skills and experience. For example, if you’re applying for a Gap Year internship in healthcare, be sure to include information about any previous healthcare experience you may have.

Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s essential to stay in touch with the organization and follow up on your status.

How Much Money Do you Need for a Gap Year?

The cost of a Gap Year is determined by a number of criteria, including the nation you’re visiting and the type of program you’re taking part in. Most gap year programs, however, range in price between $5000 and $10000. This includes airfare, lodging, food, and other costs.

Gap Year internships, for example, are typically unpaid, so you’ll need to have enough money to cover your expenses. Additionally, the application process can be competitive, so it’s important to be well prepared.

How to Fund Your Gap Year Program Abroad

When planning your Gap Year, research the cost of living in the country you will visit. This will assist you in budgeting for your trip and ensuring you have sufficient funds for your expenditures. Additionally, there are some ways to fund your Gap Year program:

Apply for scholarships: Many organizations offer scholarships for such programs. Be sure to research the options and apply early! For example, options such as the Gilman Scholarship, the Fulbright grant, and the Gap Year Association are great options for those interested in Gap Year programs.
Work part-time: Consider working part-time to save up for your trip if you’re taking a Gap Year in your home country. For instance, you could work at a restaurant, retail store, or even as a tutor.
Crowdfunding: Platforms like GoFundMe and Kickstarter are great resources for Gap Year funding. You can create a campaign and solicit donations from family, friends, and strangers!

Are Gap Years Really Worth It?

The decision to take a Gap Year is a personal one. There are pros and cons to taking a Gap Year, and you should weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making your decision. If you do decide to take a Gap Year, make sure to conduct your research and plan accordingly!

A Gap Year can be a positive experience. It’s an excellent method to discover more about yourself and the world around you. If you’re thinking about taking a break, do your homework and choose the best program!