How to Apply - Global Internships and Research Abroad

Interested in gaining international experience and building a global skillset to boost your resume? Apply for a global internship with one of our host organizations, offering placements across diverse sectors such as research, industry, NGOs, and more. Spend 3 to 4 months abroad putting your studies into practice, expanding your global network, and gaining hands-on experience that supports your transition to employment after graduation. Internships are typically available in the summer (May-August) or fall (September-December).

Participating in the Goethe Research Experience Program was an experience I will remember for the rest of my life. Throughout my research stay, I gained hands-on experience while immersing myself in a new environment. I applied knowledge I learned in school to real-world situations while conducting research in Germany. I had the opportunity to work with expert faculty members who provided invaluable guidance and mentorship throughout my placement. Furthermore, the GREP program allowed me to network and create long-lasting relationships with other students worldwide. Overall, my experience doing research abroad made me more confident, expanded my perspective on life and deepened my understanding of how my research could continue to bring positive change to communities abroad.

— Daniella Cacciottolo, Research Abroad to Goethe Research Experience Program, Germany (2025)
Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this transformative experience to other students. The amalgamation of academic excellence at the Lassonde School of Engineering and the hands-on exposure at the NASA Kennedy Space Center is unparalleled. The cross-cultural insights, leadership opportunities, and global network established during this journey have equipped me to lead and inspire others. Just as I have been motivated by mentors and leaders, I believe this experience can catalyze the growth and aspirations of future students, allowing them to make a meaningful impact on a global scale.

— Rehan Rashid, Global Internship to NASA Kennedy Space Centre, USA (2025)
Cano Palma presents an incredibly distinctive and life-altering opportunity that holds appeal for those in pursuit of adventure, personal development, and a profound affinity with nature. While it wasn't devoid of challenges, the experience was a tapestry woven with fresh encounters, enduring friendships, and endearing creatures. Days commenced in the company of individuals from diverse corners of the globe, entailing shared cooking ventures and even tearful elation on savoring the station manager's delectable homemade treats, akin to bakery delights. Embracing the Cano Palma adventure demands an open-minded approach and an ample supply of bug repellent, culminating in a departure enriched not only with newfound skills but also the marks of countless bug bites!

— Noor Fatima, Global Internship to Cano Palma, Costa Rica (2023)

Step 1

Browse through our program options, application deadlines, funding and eligibility criteria. Attend an Information Session to learn more about the program.

Step 2

Complete and submit your Application Form to York International with all required documentation.

Step 3

Participate in interviews with York International and/or the host organization, noting that final selection decisions are made by the host organization.

Step 4

If selected by the host organization, you will receive a placement offer and be asked to confirm your participation by accepting your offer.

Step 5

Attend a mandatory pre-departure session and complete Safety Abroad requirements.

Step 6

Participate in your internship or research placement abroad and share your experience upon your return.

Full-time undergraduate or post-graduate students registered in a degree program at the University
- Undergraduate students must have completed at least 18 credits at YorkU at the time of application.
- Students must be returning to York University for at least one semester after their internship i.e. students who are graduating in the summer will only be eligible if they are returning to York for at least one semester in the fall.

Students with a minimum cumulative GPA of 5.5 (B)

In addition to the general criteria, specific eligibility requirements, including language proficiency, are outlined for each position in the placement description.

The following will also be considered additional assets: academic and professional fit, prior volunteer or professional experience, proven ability to adapt to new environments, capacity to communicate effectively across cultures, willingness to take initiative, ability to work in a team, engagement in community and an interest in developing global awareness.

Please prepare the following documents in preparation for your application:

Resume/ CV
Transcripts
Research proposals (for research abroad)
References from York faculty members, and
Supporting documentation from the host supervisor for research opportunities (where applicable)

After you Apply

As part of the selection process, students may participate in up to two rounds of interviews before a placement is finalized. The purpose of these interviews is to help ensure a strong match between student goals, program expectations, and host organization opportunities.

Round 1: York International Interview / Intake Session

All eligible applicants will participate in a group or individual interview with York International. This session is designed to help students better understand the program and identify the most suitable placement options (Discuss your academic interests, career goals, and motivations for participating; Learn about the realities, responsibilities, and expectations of an international internship or research placement; Explore placement options that align with your skills, experience, and goals; Confirm your preferred placement choice before being nominated to a host organization; Receive feedback on your application materials and prepare for the next stage of the selection process)

Round 2: Host Organization Interview (If required)

Some host institutions, research supervisors, NGOs, or placement providers may conduct their own interview before making a final selection decision. Not all placements require a second interview.

Interviews are typically conducted virtually by the host organization or research supervisor.

Be prepared to discuss your academic background, relevant skills, interests, and career goals.

Demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, and enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Final placement decisions are made by the host organization or institution. If you are not selected by the host institution, York International can match you with another organization (second choice), provided that their spots are still available.

Depending on your program and faculty, your internship or research experience may be eligible for academic credit, transcript notation, or other forms of experiential learning recognition. Please note that most of our global internship/research placements are not credit-bearing. York International can help to direct you to the office for consultation but does not make any decision regarding credit transfer for your internship/research abroad experience.

Credit transfer and academic recognition vary by faculty and program.
Students are responsible for consulting their faculty, academic advisor (or Experiential Learning Coordinator), or experiential education office regarding academic requirements.
Required academic approvals should be completed before departure.
Participation in the program does not automatically guarantee academic credit.
Students should retain all copies of learning agreements, course approvals, and other academic documentation.
Faculty of Graduate Studies: If you are a post-graduate student, please consult with your faculty supervisor(s) and follow the guidelines of the Faculty of Graduate Studies

I. Work Plan Submission: Before beginning their internship or research placement, students are required to complete a Work Plan in consultation with their host organization and, where applicable, their academic supervisor. The Work Plan will be shared with you upon the confirmation of your placement.

The Work Plan helps establish clear expectations, responsibilities, and learning objectives before the placement begins.
The Work Plan should outline anticipated duties, projects, supervision arrangements, and expected outcomes.
Students are encouraged to discuss the Work Plan with their host supervisor to ensure mutual understanding of roles and expectations.
A completed Work Plan must be submitted to York International before departure.

2. Visa and Immigration

Many countries require international students to obtain a visa, work permit, research permit, or other immigration authorization before participating in an internship or research placement abroad.

Students are responsible for understanding and meeting all immigration and entry requirements for their host country.
Students should begin researching visa requirements as soon as they receive a placement offer, as processing times can vary significantly, especially if you hold an international passport.
York International and host organizations may provide supporting documentation where appropriate, but students are responsible for submitting applications and obtaining the required authorization.
Students should not make non-refundable travel arrangements until they have reviewed visa requirements and understand any associated risks.
Some placements cannot begin until the required visa, permit, or authorization has been issued.
Students are responsible for all costs associated with visa applications, permits, biometric appointments, and related documentation unless otherwise specified by the host organization or funding program.
Students should ensure their passport remains valid for the duration of the placement and any additional validity period required by the host country.
If you are an international student (having an international passport), please consult with York International Immigration Advisors regarding your study permit while you are away for your internship/research abroad

Disclaimer: Immigration regulations can change without notice. Students are responsible for consulting the official government immigration authorities of their destination country for the most current requirements.

3. York Safety Abroad Steps

All students participating in a York University-approved global internship, research placement must complete a Pre-departure session dn complete York University's Safety Abroad requirements before departure.

Completion of the Safety Abroad requirements is mandatory for participation in York University-sanctioned international activities.
Before you travel, complete all Safety Abroad requirements. These mandatory steps help ensure you are prepared, supported, and connected to York University's emergency assistance resources while abroad.

or any inquiries or clarifications regarding the Safety Abroad Program or related matters, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at safetyabroad@yorku.ca.

As a participant, you are expected to:

Maintain professional attitude and respect traditions and customs of host country and organisation.
Maintain good public relations, both internal and external, for the university and the host organisation.
Follow host organization policies and procedures
Communicate regularly with host supervisor
Demonstrate initiative, adaptability, and respect
Engage positively with local workplace and community cultures
Represent York University responsibly
Stay connected with the Global Learning Team – we are here to support you!
- Reach out to your department in York if there are any changes to your program.
- Notify York International representative and the host organization of any changes in contact information during the internship.
- Make sure to tag us on Instagram @yorkugoglobal so we can share your posts and live vicariously through your academic adventure!

Complete the Student Return Report, and share your experience with future participants through testimonials, presentations, blogs, social media content, or information sessions where possible.
Reflect on how the experience contributed to your academic, personal, and professional development.
Document key skills gained, projects completed, and accomplishments achieved during the placement.
Update your résumé, LinkedIn profile, and professional portfolio to highlight your international experience and transferable skills.
Connect with Career Centre for Drop-in advising on updating resume or consultation on future careers