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Social Work Internships Abroad

Social work internships abroad offer a powerful way to support underserved communities while gaining hands-on experience in areas like education, healthcare, psychology, human rights, and social justice. Whether you're assisting individuals, families, or entire neighborhoods, you'll develop practical skills, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding of global issues. More than an internship, it’s a life-changing journey that prepares you to lead with empathy, purpose, and professionalism.
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409 Social Work Internships Abroad

915 reviews

Adelante Abroad

Internships in Spain - Adelante Abroad

Adelante Abroad offers affordable internship programs in Madrid, ...

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00 reviews

Volunteer for the Visayans

Become a Digital Marketing & Media Intern in the Philippines

As a grassroots nonprofit organization, Volunteer for the Visayan...

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9.75507 reviews

VACorps

VACorps logo
Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in South Africa 2025
VACorps Professional Internship Program

As a participant of our program in Cape Town, South Africa, you t...

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00 reviews

Roots Interns

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Social Work and Welfare Internship in Peru

This internship opportunity is a chance to actively engage with a...

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9.297 reviews

Institute for Global Studies

Institute for Global Studies logo
Early Childhood (Education/Social Services) Internships

Specializing in early childhood education? Apply your knowledge a...

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9.8817 reviews

Connect-123 Internship Programs

Connect-123 Internship Programs logo
Child Life Practicum in Cape Town

Applications are now open for our award-winning Child Life Practi...

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101 reviews

Kaya Responsible Travel

Kaya Responsible Travel logo
Social Justice Internship in Ecuador

Sign up for this program and contribute to efforts in turning int...

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9.1167 reviews

The Intern Group

Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in United States 2025
Internships in New York

New York City—a global cultural and financial epicenter—offers an...

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81 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

Virtual International Internships - Go Global!

Even if you can’t travel, international internships are still an ...

9.58119 reviews

Asia Internship Program

Internship in Thailand - Asia Internship Program

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is one of the mo...

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9.42163 reviews

Intern Abroad HQ

Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in Spain 2025
Affordable Internships in Spain | Intern Abroad HQ

Intern in Spain with Intern Abroad HQ and experience award-winnin...

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9.354 reviews

Beyond Academy

Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in Japan 2025
Tokyo Internships with Beyond Academy

Beyond Academy is GoAbroad’s Top-Rated Intern Abroad Program. Our...

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9.4937 reviews

AIFS Abroad

AIFS Abroad Internships in New York City, United States

New York is the city that never sleeps and the city that always g...

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9.7934 reviews

World Endeavors

Intern in Thailand with World Endeavors

Thailand is an ideal destination for students and graduates who w...

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923 reviews

Absolute Internship

Intern in Lisbon with Absolute Internship

Our award-winning program gives students the opportunity to spend...

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9.840 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

Top Social Work Volunteer Opportunities & Internships Abroad

GoEco offers a wide variety of social work volunteer opportunitie...

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8.9417 reviews

CIEE College Study Abroad

CIEE Summer + Semester Internships Programs

CIEE offers the most extensive network of internship programs. A...

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1010 reviews

International Medical Aid (IMA)

IMA Cross-Cultural Care Mental Health Internships Abroad

International Medical Aid (IMA) pioneers impactful mental health ...

91 reviews

Expanish

Internships Abroad in Barcelona - Summer

Spend Your Summer in Barcelona: Global Internship Program | Summe...

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9.147 reviews

African Impact

Gender Equality Internship in Zambia

Join our experienced and hardworking team in Zambia, dedicated to...

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A Guide to Social Work Internships Abroad

Prepare for an Internship

Understand the benefits

A social work internship abroad is more than just a travel experience—it’s a life-changing opportunity to develop your skills and contribute to global change.

  • Gain professional experience and development. Work alongside seasoned professionals to build new skills and grow through real-world experience in community-focused environments.
  • Make international connections. Develop a global network of mentors and peers who share your passion for social impact and social justice.
  • Grow beyond the classroom. Strengthen your adaptability, problem-solving, and communication skills through travel and cultural exchange.
  • Increase cultural awareness. Deepen your understanding of diverse communities, traditions, and global social issues through immersive experiences.

Things to know

Before jumping into your internship abroad, it’s important to prepare for travel logistics, program expectations, and cultural immersion.

  • Visa and paperwork. Research visa requirements early, as additional documentation may be needed depending on your destination and specialty.
  • Language basics. Learn key phrases in the local language to build trust and improve communication with community members.
  • Budget and logistics. Plan for travel, program fees, accommodation, and daily expenses to stay financially prepared and comfortable.
  • Health and safety. Stay protected with the necessary vaccinations, travel insurance, and safety plans for emergencies or unexpected changes.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find social work internships all over the world on GoAbroad.com. You can also compare these programs side-by-side with the free tool MyGoAbroad, to help make a decision about which program fits you best.

There is a high demand for social workers in places like the US, Canada, and Australia. Additionally, places facing refugee crises, like Turkey, the UK, and Sierra Leone, also have high demand for qualified social workers.

Skills needed as a social work intern include de-escalation, communication, and compassion. Other specific skills vary per program. In many instances, you may need crisis training or other helpful certifications.

It'll be difficult to find paid social work internships, especially as an undergrad. However, if you have certifications or qualifications needed by your employer, you may be able to secure hourly pay or a salary.

Latest Program Reviews

Amazing summer immersion experience!

December 03, 2025by: Emily Barry - United StatesProgram: Customized Internships & Spanish Immersion at the Beach
10

I spent ten weeks in A Coruña in summer of 2019. It was an amazing experience and I felt like I really was able to learn the language and the culture. Highly recommend to anyone looking for something authentic and immersive.

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