Work abroad
International internships give you the chance to live and work in another country while gaining valuable professional experience. You’ll develop new skills, discover different cultures, and return with global experience that sets you apart in the job market.
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About international internships
As a student in the Institute for Co-operative Education, your work term can take you almost anywhere in the world. You can do an international internship with a local or global company, a non-profit organization, a government agency, or you could do an international research project. You could even work with an employer in your country of origin if you are an international student. There are many opportunities to explore.
Why do an international internship?
An international work term helps you:
- Gain professional experience in an international environment
- Build technical, communication, and intercultural skills
- Develop adaptability and confidence
- Expand your international professional network
- Strengthen your résumé and employability
Are you ready?
Living abroad is exciting and challenging. Before applying, ask yourself:
- Am I comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone?
- Can I adapt to a new culture, language, and lifestyle?
- Am I prepared to live away from home for 3–8 months?
- What do I hope to gain personally and professionally?
Planning ahead and setting clear expectations will help you succeed.
Requirements to participate
To complete an international work term, you must:
- Be in good academic standing and meet Institute requirements
- Attend an international work term information session
- Inform your program coordinator early in your planning process
- Obtain approval before starting your internship abroad
- Meet all Institute work term requirements
Important: Most international internships must be arranged two terms in advance to allow time for visas, travel planning, and logistics. Work terms in the United States may require less preparation time for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Institute essentials
You will attend a pre-departure meeting covering:
- Insurance coverage
- Visa requirements
- Financial planning
- Tax considerations
- Safety and travel preparation
After arrival, you must confirm your safe arrival and stay in contact with your coordinator throughout the work term.
To complete your work term successfully, you will:
- Submit a final work term report
- Receive an employer evaluation
- Participate in a post-work-term meeting
This reflection helps translate your international experience into career skills.
Step-by-step: How it works
Students who identify a clear destination early are often more successful.
Research:
- Travel advisories and safety information
- Language requirements
- Visa and work permit rules
- Cost of living and housing
- Cultural norms and expectations
Finding an international internship requires initiative and persistence. You can apply for opportunities on Compass or shared by the Institute or find your own internship independently
Successful students typically:
- Set a weekly job search schedule using popular platforms including LinkedIn, Indeed, and international internship websites.
- Track applications and contacts
- Use your personal and professional networks
- Apply consistently over several months
All international work terms must meet Institute requirements:
- Full-time (minimum 35 hours/week)
- 12–17 consecutive weeks (longer placements may count as multiple work terms)
- Related to your academic program
- Supervised by an employer
- Includes employer evaluation and student report
Your coordinator must approve the position before you begin.
Costs and planning considerations
Start planning 6–9 months in advance.
Students are responsible for planning and budgeting for:
- Flights and transportation
- Accommodation
- Health, travel, and liability insurance
- Daily living expenses
- Visa and permit fees
Some internships are paid, while others may qualify for funding support.
Funding opportunities
Financial assistance may be available, including:
- Québec Mobility Bursary (up to $4,500 depending on eligibility)
- LOJIQ travel funding
- RISE Germany and DAAD scholarships
- Universities Canada programs
- International Experience Canada
Funding is competitive and not guaranteed. Be sure to apply early.
Visas and legal requirements
Most countries require a work visa or permit. Students are responsible for:
- Researching immigration requirements
- Applying for visas
- Meeting tax obligations abroad
The Institute provides supporting documents but cannot apply for visas on your behalf. Visa requirements vary depending on:
- Your citizenship
- Destination country
- Internship duration
- Paid vs. unpaid status
Be sure to do your research to learn about work visas in the country you wish to work in.
Important note for international students
Your work term abroad may affect your immigration status in Canada
Changes in registration or student status may impact:
- Study permit validity
- Re-entry to Canada
- Future immigration applications
International students should consult IRCC guidelines/ Concordia International Student Office (ISO) and, if needed, an immigration professional.
Ready to start your international journey?
The Institute will support you throughout the process, from planning and job search strategies to pre-departure preparation and return.
If you're interested in doing a work term abroad, reach out to us at internationalcoop@concordia.ca.
