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Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is Intrax Internships Abroad?
Intrax Internships Abroad is a professional development program for U.S. and Canadian university students and recent graduates. The objective of the program is to provide professional work experience and global skills training to develop global leaders.
Where do you offer internships?
Internships are offered in and around Barcelona and Madrid, Spain; London, UK; Paris, France; Berlin, Germany; Tokyo, Japan.
What types of companies host students?
The companies are a mix of Fortune 500 multinationals and successful small and medium-sized companies from several major industries including: Advertising & PR agencies, financial services, technology companies, fashion, consulting, construction, entertainment, non-profit/government, start-up, hospitality and tourism firms.
How long is the program?
The summer program starts on June 14 and ends August 6, 2010. Most students will arrive on June 12 or 13 and depart August 7.
Interns in the Europe programs (London, Paris, Barcelona, Madrid and Berlin) spend the first three days in orientations and Global Skills Training, and the internships begin on Thursday.
In Tokyo, the first week includes intensive Japanese language instruction as well as Global Skills Training.
We have long term internships in the UK and Spain. The dates are January 11 through May 28, 2010 and June 14 through December 3, 2010.

Application & Program Requirements

How do I apply?
Apply online.

Once we receive your online application, we will contact you to schedule an Acceptance Interview.  Within 14 days of that phone interview, your application will be reviewed and you will be notified about whether or not you have been accepted. If accepted a $500 deposit is required to enroll in the IIA program and proceed to the matching process. Students are matched by mutual consent with internships that meet the applicant’s background and career goals.

For more information or to answer any questions on the application process, please call our Program Advisors at 800.777.7766 or e-mail info@intraxinternshipsabroad.com.

What do I need with the application?
You will need to submit a completed application form, resume, Letter of Intent, and $50 Application Fee.

Note: The $50 Application Fee includes an application review and a one-on-one interview with Intrax Internships Abroad staff.
What are the Intrax Internships Abroad requirements?
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • 18-25 years old at the time the internship commences (exceptions are made for graduate students)
  • Be of good character and in good health
  • Demonstrate the maturity and demeanor expected of a professional intern in a foreign business environment
  • Basic level of local language skill is required for France and Spain. (Note: Both English and local language internships are offered in Japan and Germany.)
What are my chances of being accepted in the program?
The program is selective and the total number of students who will be accepted into the program is capped at 150 for the summer of 2010 (approximately 30 per country). Several factors will determine which candidates are accepted – language skill and GPA will play a role, as will each individual’s background, objectives, and aptitude for a global career.
Since each company’s requirements are different, we encourage all those considering a global career to review the IIA job descriptions and apply.
Do I have to choose one country at the time of application?
No. Often, we have applicants who speak more than one foreign language or are more focused on a specific type of internship than a certain country. For example, a native English and intermediate French speaker may have choice #1 in the UK, choice #2 in France, choice #3 in Germany and choice #4 in Japan. During the matching and placement process we determine which choice is the best match.
When should I apply?
The earlier the better. The Early Decision deadline is December 15, 2009, and the final deadline is March 31, 2010. Application are processed and placements are made on a rolling basis. Preference will be given to those who enroll early.
How do I obtain a visa for the internship program?
  • The visa requirements vary by both the location and length of internship. Intrax will guide each student through the visa process.
  • Applicants must have a valid passport at the time of departure – apply for your passport early to avoid any complications.
  • The IIA program is primarily designed for U.S., Canadian and EU citizens, so we are familiar with the visa requirements of those passport holders.
  • Students of other nationalities must research visa requirements for their desired program location prior to entering the matching process.
I am a recent graduate. Can I still apply?
Yes. Most placements are entry-level placements for undergraduate students and recent graduates. A few are more advanced placements for MBA and graduate students.
Do I need to be fluent in French, Spanish, or Japanese to work in countries where those are the languages?
For programs in France and Spain applicants must be able to speak at a basic level or higher in the local language (French or Spanish), depending on the placement. Greater language skills provide enhanced opportunity, but a willingness to work in those languages is essential for those seeking to participate in those two countries. Internships in Japan and Germany do not all require Japanese or German language skills, but language skills (at any level) will enhance an application.

Placement & Program Details

Will I be paid?
For the summer internships, no. As part of this career training program, host companies are providing short-term unpaid internships. In doing so, these companies agree to ensure that the participants will engage in practical, meaningful, entry-level work experience rather than less professionally-oriented tasks.

For extended internships, the stipend will depend on the individual internship and will vary by country, company and duration.
Do I get to choose a company or an industry?
Yes. Although we cannot guarantee placement in your choice company, we want to hear your preferences. We will interview you to learn more about your goals and qualifications, and then match you based on your requests, the needs of the host company and the overall “fit.” The matching process is highly personalized and we will work closely with you to achieve a good match.
How are placements determined?
The matching process is an iterative process leading to mutual agreement. First, applicants indicate their objectives in the application and interview. Intrax then submits the resume to the identified host companies in order of preference. Typically, the host company will arrange a phone interview with the student and extend an offer if they select the candidate. No placement will be made without the mutual agreement of both the student and the host company.
Besides the internship, what else happens during the program?
The Global Skills Training course will teach practical business skills, Intercultural Competency and professional networking and feature guest speakers from host companies over the course of the program. Additionally, participants will enjoy excursions – the excursion schedule is specific to each country.
What kind of assistance will I receive during the program?
A local On-Site Coordinator and a nearby Intrax Program Manager will be available to personally assist you with any questions related to the internship, the culture, housing, insurance or any other concerns that arise. Our staff will monitor your progress and address communication issues to ensure that you gain the most out of your experience.
Can I receive academic credit?
Intrax does not offer credit for the program, but many students’ home universities will grant credit for the experience – check with your academic advisor. Intrax will provide any necessary documentation to facilitate this process.
Do people ever get hired by their sponsor company?
Yes. Companies exposed to the work ethic and passion of an intern who has been working on entry-level projects may decide to hire the intern, especially entrepreneurial firms where the senior executives will be directly exposed to the intern’s work style.
What are the living arrangements?
The living arrangements are different in each location, but all are centrally located, safe, clean and comfortable. Depending on the location and number of participants, accommodations may be shared or individual in an apartment or dorm. Accommodations are not confirmed until the entire group has been accepted.
Can I remain in the accommodation when my internship finishes?
No. All interns must leave the student housing upon completion of the program.
What expenses does Intrax cover?
Intrax provides the internship placement, housing, Global Skills Training speakers and materials, student health and accident insurance, pre-departure and in-country orientations, ongoing coaching and supervision, 24-hour emergency support and several excursions. Transportation, food and other expenses are the responsibility of the student.
Does Intrax offer scholarships?
Yes, Intrax will be offering will be offering five $500 writing scholarships for students to blog about their experience. For more information please call our Program Advisors at 800.777.7766 or e-mail info@intraxinternshipsabroad.com.

Also, visit our scholarships page and check with your university for scholarships and grants that may be applied towards an international internship.