Summer Internships: CGIS International Internships

The International Internship program involves an 8+ week placement and an in-residence internship seminar that is taken concurrently. Students have the choice of selecting the 3- or 6- credit seminar.

Students pay the program fee charged by the provider that oversees their placement; travel costs are not included.

Application Deadline

Applications for Summer 2025 International Internships are due February 1st.

Details

Students on internships through CGIS will

Typically spend 20-30 hours per week at their placement for at least eight weeks,
Work in a carefully vetted professional placement, and
Earn academic credit for participating in an internship seminar which:
- Contextualizes the local work culture,
- Explores differences between it and the American workplace culture, and
- Helps develop the skills necessary to work most effectively across cultural differences

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS

CGIS has partnered with four internship provider organizations that maintain portfolios of placements around the world. These four organizations provide exceptional support for students, from ensuring the quality of their internship placements to their commitment to the professional and intercultural development of the students on their programs.

These partners will guide you through the process of identifying and applying to appropriate internships, provide logistical support while you are on site, arrange for cultural and educational opportunities to complement your internship, teach the 3- or 6-credit seminar you will take, and provide support in case of any medical issues or other situations that might arise.

LEARN MORE AND APPLY

To learn more about each of these partner organizations, the type of internships they specialize in, and/or to start an application, read through the information on the program brochure tabs of the links below.

Explore opportunities by career field

Frequently Asked Questions

Why intern abroad?

Beyond the classic benefits of internships, such as first-hand exposure to the field, many professional skills are amplified by intercultural learning. In fact, 64% of employers value an international experience in recruitment, and 92% of employers are looking for transversal skills commonly built abroad (Erasmus impact study).

Versatility: Living in another country hones your skills in adaptability to unfamiliar people, places, and cultures.
Problem-Solving: As you encounter new challenges abroad, you can strengthen skills such as independence and confidence.
Teamwork: Working with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds helps you develop cultural sensitivity, which leads to better communication and even leadership skills.

What is a for-credit internship?

For-credit internships allow you to bring 3-6 credits back to U-M while also gaining important work experience. You will earn this credit by participating in a seminar focused on developing the skills necessary to appreciate and adapt to differences between the work cultures of the US and your host country.

Why are these internships unpaid?

There are many rules surrounding student visas and paid work, so in order to maintain student visa status abroad, these internships are unpaid. However, we realize students' need for high-value internships, which is why these are for-credit.

Is funding available?

Yes! The LSA International Internship Scholarship can offset or cover the program cost and other internship-specific expenses. Students who choose the 6 credit option can also use federal/institutional financial aid.

What are they like? What's offered?

Previous internship students have placed in roles related to research, marketing, sustainability, technology, international relations, and more. As you step into a high-impact role, you can expect support from not only your internship placement, but also your seminar leaders.

SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDING

Students with demonstrated financial need who are enrolled in an LSA International Internship through CGIS are eligible to receive the LSA International Internship Scholarship to help cover expenses. The LSA International Internship Scholarship application is open December 2 – May 20. Details about eligibility, requirements, award amounts, and the application process are available on the LSA Scholarships website linked above.

Beyond the LSA International Internship Scholarship, there are a variety of sources for different funding options available to students. We encourage students to check with their department, explore offerings from the International Institute, and review CGIS's Additional Scholarships page for more information. Please note that some funding opportunities are open to all U-M students, while others specify criteria that limit eligibility.

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