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Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Why should I do an internship?

Nowadays, many employers are looking for hands-on working experience. During an internship you can apply your theoretical knowledge which you obtained during your studies, and learn/improve new skills.

How should I prepare myself for an interview?

Preparation is key! One of the best ways to be ready is to continuously work on your interview skills. You can practice with a family member, a friend or even one of your professors.

It is important to market your abilities and keep in mind phone interview etiquette and also common tips that can lead to a successful interview: researching the company, taking notes on important facts on their activity, prepare your surroundings, practicing common interview questions…

What are employers looking for in an intern?

Most employers look for interns who are adaptable and responsible. But if we need to highlight 3 top important skills, these would be: Flexibility, Passion and Proactivity.

What is important in a good CV?

A common mistake in writing a CV is chronologically listing all of your experiences. You should use your CV to highlight your strengths and skills which are applicable for the job. For instance if you apply for a marketing internship, you could add photography as your hobby. This will signal the employer that you are creative. 

Additionally, try to keep it short and concise, your CV should not exceed one A4 page.

What should I expect during my international internship?

If it’s your first internship in this industry/department, expect to learn a lot. Frustrations may come along, but this is part of the learning process. It is important to keep an open mind, especially since you will be working abroad and cultural clashes might occur. But there is nothing that one cannot solve with open communication. But if you encounter problems, you can always rely on our On-site staff who are trained to help you in any situation.

How should I prepare for my first day at the internship?

The first day of your internship is one of the most important ones. After all, first impressions are important. Here are some tips:

  1. Don’t be late to work! We recommend you to arrive near your work place around half an hour before. 
  2. Know your job! Go through the job description before your start of the internship, in order to be prepared.
  3. Dress to impress. A nice appearance will always give you some extra points. (i.e. never wear flip flops to work!)
  4. Listen, listen, listen! Be curious on your first day, and always listen to what your supervisor and colleagues have to say. In the end, you are there to learn from them.
What are the differences between working for a big vs small company?

Both types of companies have their benefits. Generally speaking, you can expect big companies to have stricter structure, protocols, and rules. Your role is explicitly specified, and you usually will not venture out of your role or team much. 

On the opposite side, smaller companies have to be flexible and dynamic. While you also have a specified job description, it is common that you will be involved in many different projects where you can expand your knowledge and skills.

Do many students get re-hired by the company abroad after the internship or after graduation?

Absolute Internship has proved in the past that internships are the best way to secure a full time job for fresh graduates. 1 in 10 interns have been offered to return to their internship or come back to a full-time position after graduation. However it depends on the host company’s need and ability to hire a new employee, as well as the intern’s performance and qualifications.

Application

How do I apply?
  1. Apply online by selecting the program, destination and industry of your interest.
  2. Review – We will review your application to determine your suitability to the program and if it’s successful you’ll be invited for a telephone- or a Skype interview.
  3. Interview – The interview takes 15-20 minutes where we’ll assess your career goals, interests in the foreign country you have applied for as well as your suitability to the program you have applied for.
  4. Interview Outcome – After your interview (normally a 2-3 days after) you’ll be informed of your applications outcome to join our Internship Program by email. If you are successful with your application you’ll receive an acceptance letter, which will formally invite you to our program and detail on how to confirm your spot.
  5. Confirmation – Spots are competitive for our internship programs and we ask that successful applicants confirm their places in our program by paying a deposit within one week of receiving the letter of acceptance. The remaining fee is then due one month after paying your deposit, or a minimum of six weeks before your departure date, whichever is sooner.
  6. Get Ready! – Once we have received your deposit you will have formally secured a spot in our program. After receiving your deposit payment we’ll begin working on your internship placement, and welcome you to our program by providing you with all the Pre-Departure Information that you need.
When is the deadline for an application?

Our programs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis so places are competitive. We recommend that you apply and enroll as early as possible to allow us to match you with the most suitable company.

What qualifications do I need to apply?

We are looking for students or recent graduates with a strong passion and interest in foreign travels and a global career. Fluency in English is important.

Programs

Why should I do this program?

Absolute Internship is a wise investment in your future and will give you a substantial advantage over your peers. An international internship will significantly help you with your career when looking for a full-time job. Previous interns from Absolute Internship have received full-time offers of employment from their host companies upon the completion of their internships with Absolute Internship.

Is this program open to applicants of all nationalities?

All Absolute Internship’s programs are open to applicants of all nationalities. We do not have any nationality requirements.

What is included?

Your Internship Program includes:

  • A guaranteed internship in your field of interest
  • Housing during your entire stay abroad with the program
  • Welcome Dinner and Welcome Pack
  • Welcome Orientation
  • Airport pick up included in all locations *
  • Transportation to and from work
  • Planned weekend activities
  • Career Development Series with industry experts
  • 24/7 Professional on-site assistance
  • Closing Ceremony

*Restrictions apply

Do I need to speak Chinese for the programs in Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai?

No, you will be assigned an English speaking manager who will be supervising you throughout your time in your location. However it is recommended that you learn a couple of words to blend in the city.

How do I prepare myself to visit China/Hong Kong and work in a Chinese workplace?

Absolute Internship will provide you comprehensive training on working in China and how to do business in China with an industry expert with years of experience with working in China once you arrive. This includes an introduction to Chinese business etiquette and business culture, which will help you feel more comfortable and ready. In addition, once you join the program and before you travel to China or Hong Kong, we will send you pre-departure information with advice on how to prepare yourself for your time in China or Hong Kong.

How many hours a week will I work?

Participants work an average of 40 hours per week. The majority of internships take place between 9 am and 6 pm including one hour lunch.

What happens when I land at the airport?

The Absolute Internship Team will be waiting for you at the arrival gate and escort you to the Absolute housing. Please note that this service is only included in some of our internship programs. We will have a shuttle waiting for you with your Program Coordinator on Arrival Date, however if you arrive earlier or later, we will send you a comprehensive guide on how to get from the airport to the accommodation.

How is the Absolute Housing like?

Accommodations are in single or double room depending on the destination. All Absolute housing is safe, clean, equipped with Internet and located in the city with easy access to public transportation. Please visit the destination of your choice and read the housing page to find out more about the housing.

If I am in a double room, how will you choose my roommate?

Before the commencement of the internship program you have enrolled for, we will send every participant a roommate questionnaire that, once analyzed, matches personalities. We rarely had roommate problems but be informed that if a problem occurs, our on-site staff will solve it.

What is included in the events and weekend excursions?

The events we organize are one of the most popular features of our internship program. The internship program will cover all your transportation costs and entrance fees for the activities and excursions. Events and excursions are different depending on the destination. For instance in London an overnight weekend in Oxford or Cardiff is included whereas in Shanghai we have day-trips to nearby cities such as Suzhou. All of the programs include a welcome banquet, a guided tour of the city and orientation, group dinners and much more. Please visit the destination of your choice and read the weekend activities and excursions page to find out more about what’s included.

Will Absolute Internship arrange my transportation in the destination abroad so I can get to work?

In every destination, all interns will be given public transportation cards that will give you train, subway and bus rides to and from work.

What kind of assistance will I receive during the program?

On-site Program Director and coordinators will be available 24 hours a day to personally assist you with everything from how to use the subway system to find the best local restaurants. Our staff is international and often speaks several foreign languages.

Can I speak to somebody who did the program?

Yes, please send us an email to info@absoluteinternship.com and we will get you in touch with Alumni and Ambassadors that have volunteered to answer questions from applicants.

Financing

How much does the Internship Programs cost?

The program price varies depending on the destination. For more details on inclusions and prices, please visit each program page or visit the Program Comparison page.

Does Absolute Internship offer scholarships?

Our programs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis so places are competitive. We recommend that you apply and enroll as early as possible to allow us to match you with the most suitable company.

Will my internship be paid?

Internships are unpaid. We cannot guarantee anyone a paid internship.

Visa and Passports

How do I obtain a visa for the internship program I'm interested in?

Depending on your nationality the process might vary a little bit, so the visa requirements are different from one location to another. Absolute Internship will assist every applicant with the visa application process.

Do I need a visa to go to London? (Brexit)

All students require a visa to intern in London. You will need a Tier 5 visa. The Student Success Team will be happy to help you and guide you along the way.

When can I start applying for my visa?

We suggest doing it some months in advance so you are sure to have it before the Program Start Date. The Student Success Team will guide you through the process. 

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Get 800€ off by enrolling before August 15