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2012Year established

Program Overview

International Medical Aid’s Occupational Therapy Internships put you at the heart of everyday function and independence. This program serves pre-OT students, current OT/OTA students, and recent graduates who want structured observation in pediatric, adult, and community-based settings.
You’ll shadow occupational therapists working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community clinics. Watch how they evaluate motor skills, sensory needs, cognition, and daily routines, and how they use purposeful activity to help clients return to school, work, and family roles. Interns may assist with group activities, session preparation, and documentation tasks under supervision, but do not carry independent caseloads.
You’ll also see how OT principles apply in low-resource environments. This might include creative use of low-cost materials, caregiver coaching, and school-based interventions that support children with developmental delays or learning challenges.

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Program Highlights

Shadow occupational therapists in pediatric, adult, and community-based settings.
Observe assessments and interventions focused on daily living, school, and work participation.
Support activity groups and therapy sessions through structured, supervised tasks.
Learn how OT adapts to low-resource environments using practical, locally available materials.
Build a strong foundation for OT school applications and future fieldwork placements.

What's Included

Tuition & Fees
Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Internship Placement

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Ecuador
  • Kenya
  • Peru
  • Colombia
  • Tanzania
  • Haiti
  • Rwanda
  • Uganda

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Couples, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Education
  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More

Application Procedures

  • Phone/Video Interview
  • Transcript
  • Resume
  • Online Application

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

  • Summer
  • Winter
  • Short Term
  • Spring
  • 1-3 Months
  • 3-6 Months
  • Fall

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about International Medical Aid (IMA).

Who can apply for the Occupational Therapy Internships?

Pre-OT students, OT/OTA students, and recent graduates who wish to gain clinical observation and global practice exposure are encouraged to apply.

What kinds of clients will I see?

Depending on placement, you may observe children with developmental delays, adults recovering from stroke or injury, patients with orthopedic conditions, or clients with cognitive and mental health needs.

Will I have hands-on responsibilities?

Direct intervention and independent caseloads are not permitted. You may assist with setting up activities, supporting groups, and helping therapists with non-invasive, supervised tasks.

How will this support my OT school application or career?

You’ll gain a clear picture of the OT role in different health systems, plus concrete examples of client-centered practice and interprofessional teamwork for your essays and interviews.

Is prior therapy experience required?

No. We seek individuals with a consistent interest in occupational therapy, strong professionalism, and a willingness to learn in cross-cultural settings.

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2025 - Intern Abroad
HOSA Premier Partner
Top Rated Provider 2023 - Notable Mention
American Medical Student Association (AMSA) - International Medical Aid (IMA)
GoAbroad Top Rated Adventure Travel - 2022
Top Rated Organization 2021 - Adventure Travel
AIEA Logo
Diversity Abroad
Forum on Education Abroad

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