Further information and links
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Students

International Work Experience for Technical Students

The International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience, or IAESTE, is a student exchange programme with over 80 member countries worldwide. Since it was founded at Imperial College London in 1948, IAESTE has exchanged more than 330,000 students, often as the first step in their international careers.

Stand out from the crowd

Much has been made of the need for students to gain relevant work experience before they graduate. IAESTE not only provides internship experience but also the valuable experience of working abroad. Work experience gained abroad enhances your independence and flexibility, communication and foreign language skills, and contributes to your personal and academic development. Employers know that if students have successfully overcome the challenges brought on by international work experience, they will stand out from the crowd at interview.

The IAESTE programme offers you:

  • Paid work experience in 1 of over 80 countries, primarily during the summer months

  • Placements for undergraduates in science, engineering, technology and architecture

  • Course-related work in industry, research institutions, and the public sector

  • Salaries to cover the local cost of living

  • Organised social activities (in most countries)

  • Practical guidance from British Council staff during the application process

  • Assistance with work permits, visas and accommodation

Programme Requirements and How To Apply

IAESTE arranges placements on a reciprocal exchange basis so that the number of placements available abroad is equal to the number of internships available in the UK. The programme requirements and information on how to apply is aimed at UK based students.

Depending on whether you are at a university in Northern Ireland, or elsewhere in the UK, please click on the appropriate links on the left hand side of the screen, or select from the following options:

Students based in England, Scotland and Wales
Students based in Northern Ireland

Any students not registered at a university in the UK should apply to IAESTE in their own country.