Some companies can be (to put it bluntly) kinda mediocre, but others are way ahead of the pack when it comes to programs for China internships. When you take the leap to expand your knowledge on an international level, which will YOU rely on, not only as an investment in your safety, convenience, and learning, but also as the organization you’ll look back on someday and think, “Interning in China was the time of my life!”
Allow us to shed some light on the subject. It’s time to get down to work and intern in China!
Even though China is one of the best intern destinations in Asia and the South Pacific, you have to take your intern abroad plans a step further and figure out who you’re going to intern with.
You might not realize it, but choosing between internship programs in China is a big decision—just as big as the country itself! Since we’re on YOUR team and rooting for you, we wanted to make your decision process a bit easier (pulling your hair out is not cute). Here are the best China intern abroad programs this year according to our community of audacious, dumpling-loving meaningful travelers just like you.
What makes these the “best” internships in China?
As stated above, China is a pretty huge country, so you have a lot to choose from when it comes to Chinese internships. As you start to drill down and better understand any internship in China for international students that you dig, there are major key details you need to pay attention to in order to assess the quality of the experience.
Yes we know you are looking at reviews, ratings, and all that 時代曲 (shídàiqǔ—that’s Chinese for jazz BTW), but you have to find the right program that perfectly fits your wants and needs. Your opinions, goals, and expectations vary from everyone else, so make sure to really keep a keen eye out for the experience you want.
We’ve got what you’re looking for in an internship down to a TEA
So start digging through your big ol’ shoebox of options (here’s how to actually pick a intern abroad program if you want a shortcut), and while doing so, pay attention to these factors:
- Don’t be scared of what reviews hold. What other alumni have to say about their experiences can be informative and helpful to you! Consider their feedback as you discern your options for college intern abroad programs in China.
- Clarity and availability of information. If you have to hunt down basic program details, like the cost, there might be something funky going on. NEXT!
- Organizational partnerships—most are partnered or work with other respected national, local, or international organizations. Have they won any accolades or awards? This is a good sign!
- Ample resources for alumni, like how to put your experience on your resume or keep building on what you learned abroad.
- Demonstrated respect and care for local culture, environment, individuals. You can get a feel for this in the photos and the way that they “speak” on their website.
- Level of support and assistance. Do they email you back promptly and give you the information you want and need?
- Respect within your field of work. Consider Chinese internship programs or internship placements that makes people that you look up to go “Wowza!”
The best internships in China in 2024
1. The Intern Group - International Internships in Hong Kong—9.7 Rating
“My experience with the intern group in Hong Kong far exceeded my expectations. They are very efficient and professional, they offered me great support prior to going to Hong Kong. Upon my arrival and during the extent of my stay in Hong Kong the activities they organised were phenomenal and their constant help was great. I would recommend this experience to anyone seeking a great time and to anyone seeking a new adventure!” — The Intern Group alum
- Where?: Hong Kong
- When?: Year Round lasting for 5-8 Weeks, 9-12 Weeks, 3-6 Months, or 7-12 Months
- Why?: Looking for tip-top internships in China? With Hong Kong being one of the most famous, bustling, and historic cities in the world, why not get some hands on experience there? They partner with a wide variety of great companies to make sure you get exactly what you are looking for. Fulfill your career potential, get a leg up in your area of interest, boost your CV , and all while having a fantastic experience in a new and exciting country. What more could you ask for when looking for an internship in China?
2. Go Abroad China - Best Competitive China Internship Program—9.1 Rating
“It was definitely a great experience. The company I worked for was great, the work I did was fun, and all of my co-workers were friendly. The GAC Beijing Coordinators are excellent at their jobs, and very friendly. They are available practically 24/7 throughout your entire stay to help you with anything that might come up, and also to assist you in navigating the treacherous enigma that is life in Beijing.” — GAC alum
- Where?: Beijing, Shanghai
- When?: Year Round and apply a month in advance from your desired start date
- Why?: With your placement based on your sector and background, but tailored to your interests and goals, you will work with world-renowned organizations, meet established professionals in your field, and attend professional development events to make the most out of your experience. With a monthly stipend and programs being offered year round, how about a Summer internship in China.
3. ImmerQi - China Internship Program—9.7 Rating
“I had the great opportunity to gain an invaluable experience and skills through working independently and as part of a team in a multicultural business setting in Beijing. It was very a wonderful experience in order to give a more consolidate professional expertise and cultural knowledge. Beside the work itself, thanks to Immerqi team i was involved in many educational activities and professional events” — ImmerQi alum
- Where?: Beijing, Shanghai
- When?: Year Round
- Why?: Time to broaden your professional and social network whilst gaining invaluable skills in your industry of choice. Step out of your comfort zone to stand out in the world by interning in the fast paced and dynamic setting of a Chinese city. With cultural activities, Mandarin classes, and so much more readily available at your fingertips, there has never been a better time to intern in China.
4. Next Step Connections - Global Student Internship—9.3 Rating
“NSC has provided an excellent service for me to try out an internship abroad. By far the best internship experience. I get to meet clients and learn more about PRC Laws. Shanghai is a great city to live in and I love the people here..” — NCS alum
- Where?: Shanghai
- When?: Year Round
- Why?: “Toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore.”...Well, no, you’ll be in Shanghai, also known as “Paris of the East”. At Next Step Communications, you’ll get a chance to test out your career (whatever your area of expertise), built soft skills, get to fully know yourself, and immerse yourself in the Chinese culture! Intern in China and build yourself in a unique and different living environment, away from your comfort zone; you won’t be sorry!
5. CRCC Asia - Shanghai, Shenzhen & Beijing Internships - 9.8 Rating
“The internship was amazing! It really was a brilliant way to get a feel for a tough work environment that's quite different to the UK. It gave me a lot of transferable skills and I had the best time and made some awesome new friends!! The social life in Beijing is fantastic as they really pride themselves on going out in groups either personally or professionally and it's a great way to interact and meet new people.” — CRCC alum
- Where?: Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen
- When?: Year Round for 1-3 Months
- Why?: From Technology to Tourism, CRCC has a wide variety of internships that will jumpstart your international career. You will learn and explore China through an award-winning cultural immersion program which includes accommodation, visa-processing, 24/7 support, pre-departure services, social events and language classes. Plus, who knows, perhaps you will even land a full-time job with your company prior to your internship. Anything is possible!
6. Asia Internship Program - Internship in Hong Kong—9.4 Rating
“My 3 month Hong Kong internship was intense and enlightening. Being ahead of the game in so many industries it is really the place to be for me. I always thought myself ambitious and this just made the most sense to me, what better place to get a foothold on your career than the Asian market? Other than the internship itself, Hong Kong’s diversity and culture blew me away. I did all of the touristy things while I was there! I have to hand it to AIP, I was really happy with my placement and the accommodation provided was in a really good location.” — Asia Internship Program alum
- Where?: Hong Kong
- When?: Year Round lasting for 2-6 months
- Why?: Ready to lay the foundation of your future career? Interning with AIP will help you do just that...AND MORE! Broaden your professional and social network while living in a multi-cultural environment that offers both the western lifestyle and maintaining at the same time its Chinese roots and tradition. AIP also includes a domestic SIM card into the costs, *Ring Ring* I’m ready to take on China!
7. ISA - Internships in Shanghai, China—10.0 Rating
“The ISA group was there every step of the way when I needed them. They didn't hold my hand, but they didn't let me into the wild without preparing me for what was in the 12 weeks to come. The only real commitment I had to give was a willingness to step out of my comfort zone. The result? An unbelievable experience that furthered my hard professional skills and landed me a job upon returning to the U.S., two new international best friends, and an adventure I wouldn't trade for the world. I highly advise this to anyone looking to gain professional, personal and international experience.” — ISA alum
- Where?: Shanghai
- When?: Year Round
- Why?: It’s your time to shine! With fields of interests as far as the eye can see, show international employers you are driven, cultured, and can work effectively in an overseas environment. Plus, the real world experience is a great CV booster! By working with ISA you will receive visa support, international insurance, get to enjoy regular social activities, and last but not least, tons of personal and professional development! You’ll have no problem adjusting to life interning in China. So just sit back and enjoy a nice cup of tea, they’ve got you covered.
8. Sustainability Systems Initiative - Customized Sustainability Internships—9.8 Rating
“I recently made the trip over to Shanghai to participate in an internship with SSi all the way from Melbourne, Australia. It was such an awesome experience. I got so much hands on experience and grew my understanding of sustainability issues affecting Shanghai and China more widely. The internship allowed me to apply and develop my skill set and taught me so much about Chinese business, culture and practice. I would recommend this to anyone who is interested in learning about or working in this space.” — SSI alum
- Where?: Shanghai
- When?: Year Round lasting for 2-6 months
- Why?: With internship placements available for students interested in a wide variety of industries and from virtually any field of study, from Administrative to Agriculture, they have what you are interested in. Students receive training and guidance and are monitored throughout the internship. 24/7 safety and emergency support, metrocard, mobile SIM card, industry visits, and travel benefits are just a few of the things to look forward to with SSI. We can assure that the adventure doesn’t stop there. With field trips, Mandarin language classes and knowing you are making a positive impact, every day will be an adventure!
[Check Out More Intern Abroad Programs in China]
More resources to help you intern abroad in China
We’re hoping some of these programs already have you packing your stuff and ready to say “Nǐ hǎo”. BUT, if none of these programs are quite what you’re looking for, take a gander through our entire China intern abroad program directory. There are filters left-and-right, allowing you to really hunt down the program that you’ve been daydreaming about.
Bright light, big city, and an internship with a view!
Overwhelmed by the options? We totally get it. Our Online Advisors are here to save the day. Just tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll do your homework for you / send you a handful of specific recommendations to your preferences. Easy peasy, green tea squeezy!
Pro tip: One of the most important steps to figuring out which internships in China for American students are right for you, that many students unfortunately skip, is identifying your WHY(s). Why are you interning abroad? Why intern abroad in China in the first place? To learn a language, to travel tons, eat lots of awesome food, to make friends from all over the world, to learn beside the experts in your industry of choice? Know your goals, then use them to influence which China intern abroad programs you’re considering—and ultimately choosing.
And last but not least, not everything comes for free in life...who would have thought?! I know, it’s just the hard but honest truth, but lucky for you, sometimes paid internships in China can be the way to go. OH, and don’t forget to break that piggy bank of yours and check out our “How To” guide to paying for internships abroad!
Intern abroad in China this year!
Stop “dragon” your feet and find China internships now!
China is a land of vast natural landscapes, as well as buildings that scrape the sky. With a culture that can’t help but draw you in, no wonder people are so interested in getting first hand experience there. Choosing to intern and dive deeper into your area of interest can do nothing but help you get ahead of the game, and we can promise you, you will be amazed at what can be accomplish.
Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare Internships in China
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qLvAm6momZRjsLC5jpqpraGTobK0e8inq56qnmKuo77OmptompWowW61za2cq6ajnbaxv4ycn6KmkQ%3D%3D