India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world — a colorful culture, prismatic landscapes, and innumerable destinations that showcase the country’s incredible diversity. From the Himalayan Mountains to the Taj Mahal, India has so many things to offer the adventurous intern, and it creates a perfect training ground. India has emerged as one of the cultural and economic hotspots of the century and is well known for its excellence in major industries, like IT, entertainment, and engineering, but you’ll discover even more in any field along the way as an intern abroad in India.
Where to Intern Abroad in India
As the second most populous country in the world with over 1 billion people, India is one of the fastest growing major economies in the world. While India shares borders with six other countries, the nation itself is a distinct geographical entity as it stands apart, separated by mountains and the sea from the rest of Asia. From the rural areas to the urban areas, and internship in India will allow you to explore and more. Here are the best places for internships in India.
Mumbai. You’ll find two distinct faces of this western Indian city formerly known as Bombay: the skyscrapers and the slums. Being the epicenter for finances, fashion, and film, those who are looking to intern in business can get started on climbing the corporate ladder here. With its impoverished districts, interns looking to work in medical fields or social work field can also find plentiful placements here as well. When you’re not on the clock, you can relax on one of its many beaches or dance at a music festival.
New Delhi. This bustling city is a blend of the past and the future with its colonial-era parliament buildings and skyscraping offices and mega malls. From the Akshardham temple to the Jantar Mantar observatory, you’re never short of being able to marvel at beautiful structures while you’re here. The capital of India offers a wealth of internships types from healthcare to hospitality to information technology.
Calcutta (Kolkata). On the lower Ganges Delta in eastern India lies this second-biggest city in the country that’s more friendly than its sister cities. The cultural or literary capital of India offers Indo-Islamic and Indo-Saracenic motifs, the Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial, Marble Palace, the National Library of India, and Science City.
Popular Fields for Internships in India
Apply your knowledge, develop your skills, and gain practical hands-on experience with an internship in India. Interns will undoubtedly learn a great deal about Indian culture and adapt to new customs while increasing their international networks. Here are a few popular types of internships for international students in India.
Medicine. From nursing to nutrition, you could be caring for people or animals in the healthcare field in India. If you love working with furry animals, you could assist staff with animal therapy and house visits for adoptions. If you’re interested in the human audience, you would immerse yourself in clinical experiences by witnessing infectious diseases and how to treat them.
Business. India’s buzzing with several new startups as well as large corporations. Learn the languages of computers, recruit others in human resources, and spread the word with marketing in almost any field. You can get involved with activities, research, observation, and documentation in many of these programs.
Social work. India is brimming with social work opportunities due in large part to the unfortunately high number of slums and impoverished citizens. From education programs to sustainable development, several programs are looking for help from interns.
Costs of Interning in India
Most internships are unpaid. You might earn a small stipend (usually around $250) every month, but it won’t be enough to save money or pay off debts. With your program fee covering the majority of expenses, you’ll need to have extra spending money for excursions or for nightlife activities. Saving money, applying for scholarships, and fundraising through FundMyTravel can help you cover that extra helping of gulab jamun (milk-solid dessert).
Accommodations in India
If your dogs are barking at the end of the day, you’ll be sure to be able to rest your feet in a cozy environment. The type of accommodation can vary for an India internship from apartments to shared housing to homestay placements. In most cases, programs will arrange accommodation or they’ll help you with searching for one.
Visas for India
Like with any country, you’ll need a valid passport, and the visa requirements depend on your citizenship, length of program, and if your internship is paid or not. If you’re a U.S. citizen who is staying 30 days or less, an electronic travel authorization is necessary upon arrival. Program coordinators are usually helpful in the visa process, and you can go to GoAbroad’s Embassy Directory to get the process started.
GoAbroad’s Insider Tips
Professional development. Your program will help you build and strengthen your career path while giving you the chance to establish important relationships with international organizations.
Celebrate good times! Festivals create an incredible cultural experience for interns, and at least one must be attended to truly understand how Indians celebrate cultural events.
From meditating by temples to exploring fortresses, your heart will soar with delight in India. This mysterious, mystical land will ensure you have a worthwhile experience when you venture here.
