The best paid internships for international students in 2024

University can be a tough time money-wise, with tuition fees, textbooks and living expenses adding up quickly. You may find yourself needing to take on a part-time job during breaks to cover these costs. 

While any job can provide a source of income, opting for a paid internship has its unique advantages. 

In the US, nearly 60% of college students graduate with student loan debt, making the financial burden a reality for many. 

The best paid internships offer a great way to not only alleviates this burden but also provides valuable hands-on experience and skills that can help you in the future.

Imagine securing a paid internship with a reputable company in your chosen field.

Companies like Google, Microsoft and other big companies offer paid internship programmes that not only compensate you but also provide an immersive experience in cutting-edge technologies and business practices. 

These opportunities allow you to earn a salary and build a professional network and gain insights into the practical aspects of your field at the same time.

By choosing this you will gain financial stability and valuable skills that can set you apart in the competitive job market after graduation.

The best paid internships vs unpaid internships

Choosing a paid internship over an unpaid one is important. 

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that students who completed paid internships were more likely to receive job offers upon graduation compared to those who pursued unpaid opportunities. 

Paid internships also often come with greater responsibilities and more meaningful tasks, allowing you to develop relevant skills and contribute to the organisation. 

The payment you receive is not solely a monetary reward for your efforts; it also reflects the value that the company places on your contributions.

This can boost your confidence and motivation, making you more likely to feel invested in your work. 

Sounds like a future you’d like?

To help you get started, we have found some of the best paid internships in 2024 that you don’t want to miss out on. 

9 best paid internships that offer salary, benefits and more 

1. Google Summer Internship

The Google Summer Internship is one of the best paid internships for international students. 

This three-month, fully paid virtual internship is a chance to refine your coding skills and an opportunity to work with the world’s most powerful tech company.

As you immerse yourself in the world of open-source software development, you’ll be paired with a mentor from participating organisations, gaining hands-on exposure to real-world software development and techniques. 

Salary ranges from a minimum of US$1,500 to a maximum of US$3,300, depending on your country.

To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old, enrolled or accepted into a post-secondary academic programme, and eligible to work in the country where you reside during the internship. 

The programme is designed to accommodate remote work, allowing you to contribute to cutting-edge projects from wherever you are.

For a chance to earn certificates, and boost your career prospects with Google, click here to apply.

2. Goldman Sachs

The Goldman Sachs Internship is a great opportunity that can shape your future in the financial services industry. 

Picture a highly competitive international environment where you can gain invaluable experience. 

If this is the challenge you seek, the bank will run fully paid internships abroad in summer 2024. 

Be prepared because the competition is fierce, and securing a position requires a polished resume, the right qualifications from elite universities and a good dose of luck.

Apply for Goldman Sachs internships here.

3. Deloitte 

As one of the “Big Four” professional services firms, Deloitte offers all-expense-paid internships abroad in fields ranging from business technology to corporate finance and consulting. 

Imagine not only developing your skills but also gaining hands-on industry experience in the dynamic world of business.

Beyond the impressive resume boost that comes with the Deloitte name, the experience is made better with exposure to the firm’s vast range of services, from audit and consulting to financial advisory and risk management.

Whether you find yourself delving into business technology solutions or navigating the complexities of corporate finance, Deloitte ensures a comprehensive learning experience. 

Interested in working with Deloitte? Click here to apply.

4. L’Oreal

Human resources in Malaysia, operations in France, marketing in Dubai or Brazil, retail in Italy or Sweden, research in Switzerland, or finance in Hungary.

The possibilities are seemingly endless when you intern with L’Oreal. 

L’Oreal’s Global Opportunity Programme allows students and young graduates to explore the world in internship roles that align with their studies and geographical interests.

Whether in the heart of European fashion in Italy or embracing the dynamic business landscape in Dubai, L’Oreal ensures that your internship isn’t just about work but also about growing personally and professionally. 

Ready to apply? Click here. 

5. Premier TEFL in Spain

Seeing all you learn come to life while you enjoy churros, paella and tapas in some of the most vibrant and beautiful cities in Europe.

This could be your reality when you choose to pursue the Premier TEFL internship in Spain. TEFL stands for “Teaching English as a Foreign Language.”

Spanning nine months, this is a great way to explore the landscapes of Catalonia while getting paid to teach.

You’ll be provided with accommodation through a host family, adding another layer of authenticity to your experience.

Open to native English speakers aged 20 to 30, this programme is a chance for EU citizens or those from the US, Canada, South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand who have completed pre-university.

Complete the programme and you will also earn a 120-hour Advanced TEFL Certificate

The programme includes micro-credentials in Teaching Young Learners and Mindfulness and Yoga for Early Educators, along with an in-depth online course on Spanish culture.

Interested? Click here to apply now.

6. LoPair 

Prefer a stint in what’s arguably the most important country in recent decades? Consider joining LoPair.

You’ll live with a Chinese family for three to 12 months in a major city, where you’ll have no shortage of way to improve your Mandarin skills and build meaningful relationships.

As you help with childcare services for the family, you receive a monthly stipend of 1,500 renminbi (US$211.01) and a completion bonus. 

But the perks don’t stop there – you also enjoy a free room, meals, insurance and round-trip flight tickets.

You will begin your journey with a three-day group orientation, training and a city tour of Hangzhou. 

There are also professional Mandarin classes and cultural courses. The best part? You have the freedom to explore Beijing, Shanghai or Hangzhou.

Don’t miss out on your chance at this amazing opportunity in China. Apply for the LoPair Internship here.

7. Mitacs Globalink Research Internship

Unlock the door to an enriching research journey through the Mitacs Globalink Research Internship. 

If you’re an undergraduate student or in a joint bachelor’s and master’s programme, this paid internship is the perfect step for you to delve into the world of Canadian research excellence. 

Picture this: a 12-week exploration of cutting-edge projects across diverse fields, collaborating with top-notch Canadian professors. 

But that’s not all; Mitacs sweetens the deal with a substantial reward. Successfully complete the internship, and you’ll earn US$15,000. 

Click here to learn more about the Mitacs Globalink Research Internship.

8. Engineering Vacation Research Internship Programme

If you’re an Australian university student seeking hands-on experience in engineering, computer science, or project management research, the University of Sydney’s Engineering Vacation Research Internship Programme could be perfect for you.. 

The programme, conducted twice a year during winter and summer, lasts up to six weeks.

You receive a stipend of 500 Australian dollars per week in exchange for your work, i.e. gaining real-world experience in your field.

Find out more about the Engineering Vacation Research Internship Programme here.

9. Sephora Internship Summer Programme

If you are interested in beauty and cosmetics, the Sephora Internship Summer Programme is the perfect internship for you.

At Sephora, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge that will prepare you for professional growth.

This internship is designed for students currently enrolled in recognised educational institutions. Sephora values qualities such as creativity, teamwork, and a strong work ethic in its prospective interns, making it an ideal space for aspiring beauty professionals. With a wide range of academic specializations considered, the internship program is inclusive and encourages candidates from various backgrounds to apply.

This internship programme goes beyond traditional intern experiences, offering many benefits to students keen on pursuing careers in the beauty industry.

Participants gain hands-on experience, learning directly from industry experts and developing essential skills.

The hourly pay for this internship is around US$23 per hour. However, the actual pay depends on factors like qualifications, experience and the country. Candidates are also eligible for bonuses and receive a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental and vision plans.