4 life-changing internships in Asia for international students

Asia has much to offer.

From the fast-paced, exciting Bangkok and Tokyo to the sensational beaches of Koh Phi Phi or Halong Bay, living here in this part of the globe is a chance to immerse yourself in an authentic multicultural experience.

If you long to discover the beauty of Asia, these internship programmes are the perfect fit for you. 

What’s more, internships are an opportunity to enhance your resume while gaining practical work experience, growing your network, and learning new skills.

Studies also have revealed that internships can increase your employability. Nearly 91% of employers are more likely to select graduates who have participated in job experiences, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

With that said, here are some of the best internship programmes around Asia for international students. 

Four internship programmes for you to discover the beauty of Asia:

China offers an internship programme that allows you to earn money as you care for children. Source: Frederic J. Brown/AFP

LoPair, China

Do you want to immerse yourself in Chinese culture? 

LoPair is an award-winning cultural exchange internship programme where you can live and work in China. 

Here, you will get first-hand experience of living in China as you stay with a Chinese family, learn Mandarin and network with people from all around the globe. 

Applicants will begin their placements with a three-day group orientation, training and tour of the city of Hangzhou. They receive a monthly salary of 1,500 renminbi (approximately US$217.22 at the time of writing)

The best part? This paid internship allows you to stay in a major Chinese city for three to 12 months. 

While staying with the family, you help them with childcare services for their children. In return, you get a free room, meal, insurance and flight tickets. 

Ready to apply? Click here. 

EA ski and snowboard training, Japan

Don’t enjoy interning at an office? Consider the EA ski and snowboard training programme in Japan. 

As a country famous for its light, powdery snow and tree skiing, this paid internship allows you to experience all the country has to offer and more. 

Through this course, you’ll travel abroad, train as a ski or snowboarding instructor, and have a guaranteed job offer upon completing the programme. 

 “The EA course definitely lived up to my expectations. It was a great stepping stone into the world of being an instructor. The training was really good and I had a lot of fun,” shares Henry Bunney, who interned at Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort.  

Are you excited about what you just read? Get your ski boots ready and sign up for this excellent experience. 

Teach in Thailand with the Premier TEFL internship programme. Source: Nicolas Asfouri/AFP

Premier TEFL, Thailand

Home to stunning beaches, friendly people, delicious food and monasteries, Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries in Asia. 

With Premier TEFL, you now stand a chance at scoring an internship in Thailand. Applicants can choose from over 30 locations around north, northeast and central Thailand.

Spanning over four and a half months, you can explore the country while teaching English in local primary and secondary schools.

Successful applicants will receive a monthly allowance between US$995 to US$1,125 and rent-free accommodation worth US$99.

By the end of the programme, applicants would have completed a 120-hour Advanced TEFL Certificate and gained teacher training experience that will benefit them when choosing to further their studies or apply for jobs. 

Click here to learn more about the Premier TEFL programme.

Bali Internships

Bali is a place with abundant beauty, culture and adventures.

The country has so much to offer, including many internship opportunities in architecture,‌ ‌interior‌ ‌design,‌ ‌engineering,‌ ‌education,‌ ‌event‌ ‌management,‌ ‌ fashion,‌ ‌and hospitality‌. ‌

While it is against the law to pay interns in Bali, many of these programmes offer allowances to applicants. This includes free accommodation, meals, visa fees, transportation and many more.

Interns in Bali will work for seven hours during weekdays and are free to explore the beautiful city on weekends. 

Discover your Bali dream by signing up for an internship here.