International Internships

International internships equip students with the skills necessary to compete in today’s globalized marketplace. In addition to gaining valuable professional experience, students who intern abroad also develop an in-depth understanding of another culture, create a global network of contacts, and strengthen their resumes.

Realities of International Internship Opportunities

• Paid internships abroad are rare
• Companies usually require interns to speak the language of the host country
• A visa and/or work permit is a typical requirement
• Volunteer positions can be as valuable as an internship
• Volunteer opportunities are more common in nonprofit and government organizations

Programs with Internship Components

Non-Affiliated / Independent International Internships

All credit associated with international travel must be approved by the University of Florida International Center (UFIC). Follow this process to earn credit for your international internship:

1. Obtain “Employer Verification Letter” from the prospective company with the dates of the internship, expected work hours, anticipated responsibilities, and supervisor contact info (email, phone, address) on company letterhead.
2. Send your UFID, desired number of internship credits, other courses you will be taking that semester, and Employment Verification Letter to our email. The International Programs Office will reply with the approved Academic Advising Form.
3. Sign/date your Academic Advising Form and send it to the UF International Center Advisor for your region. The UF International Center Advisor will set up your online application.
4. Complete the UF International Center online application and pay the UF application fee.
5. Apply for the GEB 4941 Internship Course after your UFIC application is approved.