Students

Internships

Students > Internships > How it Works

Your destination please?

Your first step to a MISTI internship is to answer the question: Where? MISTI operates through ten country programs. Opportunities, requirements and application procedures vary. Consult the website of the country program that interests you to learn more about that program's specifics, or contact the program manager.

All MISTI programs are open to students in any major. Undergrads, graduates and graduating students may apply.

For undergraduates, most MISTI programs require:

  • proficiency in the language of the host country (one to two years of university-level language or the equivalent)
  • good academic standing at MIT
  • completion of country-specific courses and preparation

Internships are available year-round, from three to 12 months long. In general, this is how the application and placement procedure works for summer internships:

  1. Apply & interview (September-October)

    Review program requirements, complete your online profile and set up an appointment on the Student Portal. Then sit down with one of our program managers and tell us your goals for an internship abroad. If you meet the program requirements, we'll get started on finding you an all-expenses-paid internship abroad.

  2. Placement (October-March)

    We forward your application package to companies and labs we think would be a good match for you. If you already have contacts abroad or an internship in mind, let us know!

  3. Reach agreement

    We help you and your host institution reach an understanding about the details of the proposed internship, including dates, stipend and travel support.

  4. Prepare (February-May)

    We work with you and your host to facilitate logistics and make arrangements: visa, internship agreement, housing. You attend MISTI-designed preparatory sessions to help you make the most of your internship.

  5. Now go!