12 Summer Internships Abroad For High School Students
If you’re a high school student looking to gain work experience, a summer internship can be one of the most rewarding ways to spend your break. These programs offer practical learning, industry exposure, and a look at different career paths. You’ll build skills, connect with mentors, and develop confidence as you work in a professional environment.
Unlike long-term university programs, internships are short and flexible, making them an accessible way to explore your goals without a big commitment. Interning abroad gives you the chance to experience a new culture, meet people from different parts of the world, and learn how work environments differ across countries.
To make your search easier, we’ve rounded up 12 of the best summer internships abroad for high school students.
1. CERN High-School Students Internship Program
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Cost/Stipend: Fully funded (includes travel, accommodation, meals, and local transport)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; varies by national program
Dates: Two-week sessions (May–August)
Application Deadline: Varies by country
Eligibility: High school students aged 16–19 who are currently enrolled in school and have a strong interest in STEM fields
In the CERN High-School Students Internship Programme, you’ll gain first-hand exposure to scientific research and technology in an international environment. Over two weeks, you’ll observe and assist professionals working in fields such as physics, engineering, and computing. The program includes workshops, lab visits, and shadowing opportunities that help you understand how large-scale research projects are carried out. You’ll also learn about data collection, instrumentation, and teamwork in a collaborative setting. By the end of the program, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how research institutions like CERN operate and the range of STEM careers they support.
2. Imperial College London Global Summer School
Location: London, United Kingdom
Cost/Stipend: Fee-based (covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and activities; travel not included)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size varies by year (typically 100–200 participants across both sessions)
Dates: June 29 – July 10 or August 3 – August 14
Application Deadline: Applications open in January (check program page for exact deadline)
Eligibility: Students aged 16–17 with strong academic records and proficiency in English
In Imperial’s Global Summer School, you’ll take intensive academic sessions in subjects such as data science, engineering, medicine, or physics, combining lectures with laboratory workshops. You’ll work on an Innovation Challenge in mixed-discipline teams, applying classroom learning to a real-world problem under the guidance of industry mentors. The residential format lets you stay in campus accommodation and experience aspects of university life while collaborating with international peers.
3. Medical Internship and Shadowing Program for High School Students – Lite Regal Education
Location: London, United Kingdom
Cost/Stipend: Fee-based (includes accommodation, meals, local transport, and supervision; flights not included)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; limited to two scholarship recipients and a small residential cohort
Dates: 1–4 week options (offered during summer)
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: Students aged 16–24 who are fluent in English and show a strong interest in medicine, dentistry, nursing, or veterinary science
In this medical internship, you’ll shadow doctors in London hospitals and clinics to gain direct exposure to healthcare environments. Depending on your chosen duration, you’ll observe patient consultations, learn about diagnostic procedures, and understand daily clinical operations. The program focuses on giving you a realistic view of medical careers while helping you develop skills such as observation, communication, and professional etiquette. You’ll stay in student accommodation at the University of London and participate in daily group discussions and debriefs with mentors. At the end of the internship, you’ll receive a transcript and a letter of completion from your supervising doctor, which can support future university or medical school applications.
4. Bocconi Summer School for High School Students
Location: Milan, Italy
Cost/Stipend: €2,600 (includes academic sessions, materials, extracurricular activities, and local transport card; excludes accommodation, meals, and visa costs)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited spots filled on a rolling basis
Dates: 7–18 July
Application Deadline: April 4 (applications open February 27)
Eligibility: Students in their third-to-last or second-to-last year of high school (Italy or abroad) who are at least 16 years old by the start of the program
At the Bocconi Summer School, you’ll explore university-level learning through two week-long academic labs of your choice from subjects such as economics, data science, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and finance. The program is designed to help you experience Bocconi’s teaching approach and apply theoretical knowledge through discussions, case studies, and interactive sessions. You’ll attend lectures led by Bocconi faculty and guest speakers, work on projects that connect business, law, and technology, and gain insights into global economic and social challenges. Upon completion, you’ll receive an official electronic certificate recognizing your participation.
5. InvestIN Summer Experiences
Location: University College London (UCL) and other University of London campuses, London, UK
Cost/Stipend: Programme fees range from £2,225–£4,400; residential package ranges from £3,725–£7,550 depending on duration and premium options. Optional Heathrow airport transfers: £300
Cohort Size: Limited spots per program
Dates: Vary by program, generally between July and August
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Eligibility: High school students aged 15–18
In this program, you’ll spend up to two weeks gaining hands-on experience in one of 15 competitive career areas, such as medicine, engineering, investment banking, and law, among others. You’ll work closely with industry professionals, completing practical tasks and observing day-to-day operations to understand your chosen field better. Some days take place at industry sites across London, while most sessions are hosted at UCL and the University of London campuses. Throughout the program, you’ll acquire professional skills, receive feedback, and have the opportunity to earn a certificate and reference letter to document your experience and support future university applications.
6. Mission Discovery Summer School
Location: King’s College London – Guy’s Campus, London, UK
Cost/Stipend: £799 (Day Program) | £1,999 (Residential Package, includes accommodation, meals, and supervision)
Cohort Size: Limited spots available
Dates: July 7–11 (Residential Package begins July 6)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students aged 14–18 internationally
In this summer program, you’ll work alongside NASA astronauts, space scientists, and professors from King’s College London to design a science experiment that could be launched to the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX rocket. You’ll collaborate in small teams, receiving mentorship to develop projects with potential real-world benefits. Throughout the week, you’ll build skills in teamwork, leadership, innovation, public speaking, and problem-solving while interacting with peers from around the world. At the end of the week, the top experiment will be selected for launch to the ISS, and all participants will receive a certificate signed by a NASA astronaut and university professors.
7. University Of Notre Dame Study Abroad Programs
Location: Italy, Ireland, South Africa, London (UK)
Cost/Stipend: Varies based on program
Cohort Size: Limited spots available
Dates: Varies by program – Italy: June 6–20 | London: July 5–19 | South Africa: July 18–August 2 | Ireland: July 18–August 2
Application Deadline: October 15
Eligibility: High school students
These study abroad programs allow you to explore global cultures while learning from Notre Dame faculty. In Italy, you’ll spend two weeks in Rome examining its architectural history, iconic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage. In London, you’ll explore the city’s historic buildings, museums, diverse neighborhoods, and its role as a major global trading hub. Ireland offers a 12-day seminar that blends the urban experience of Dublin with visits to scenic locations like Kylemore Abbey, highlighting the country’s history and traditions. In South Africa, you’ll engage with the nation’s complex history through visits to historical sites, while also experiencing wildlife safaris and natural landscapes. Across all programs, you’ll gain cultural insights, hands-on learning, and memories that last a lifetime.
8. Global Leadership Adventures (GLA)
Location: Multiple international locations (Africa, Asia & Pacific, Central & South America, Europe, North America, Caribbean)
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program; tuition covers lodging, meals, excursions, staff support, and insurance (airfare not included)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: 7–21 days, program-specific
Application Deadline: Varies; early admissions advantage available through November 1
Eligibility: High school students (some programs open to middle school students)
In GLA programs, you will travel to a host country and engage in meaningful community service, cultural immersion, and hands-on learning. You’ll work with local partners to support projects that address community needs, while also exploring the local culture, history, and environment. The programs may include service initiatives such as wildlife conservation, healthcare, education, or environmental stewardship, along with adventure activities such as trekking, snorkeling, or ziplining. You will develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while collaborating with peers and mentors.
9. CIEE Global Navigator High School Summer Abroad
Location: 40+ international destinations, including Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Tokyo, Costa Rica, and South Africa, among others
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program; scholarships available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: 3 - 4 weeks, program-specific
Application Deadline: Early birds: November 1 for flight raffle; check program-specific deadlines
Eligibility: High school students; program-specific age and grade requirements
On the CIEE Global Navigator program, you’ll spend 3–4 weeks abroad, immersing yourself in a new culture while living with local families or in supervised accommodations. You’ll have the opportunity to study language, leadership, service, or STEM topics while participating in projects that benefit the local community. Alongside your peers from across the U.S., you’ll explore local landmarks, engage in cultural activities, and learn practical skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and cross-cultural communication. There will be experienced staff and local partners to guide your experience.
10. Instituto Hemingway – Culinary Arts Internship Program
Location: Bilbao, Spain
Cost/Stipend: Flat rate of €600; includes free accommodation and €200/month internship compensation
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Flexible; students can choose their start dates year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Open to students interested in culinary arts, hospitality, or gastronomy; no prior Spanish required
In this program, you’ll explore Spanish cuisine through hands-on cooking classes, guided by experienced chefs. You’ll work directly in restaurant or hotel kitchens, gaining professional experience while learning to prepare authentic dishes and understand local culinary traditions. The program also includes Spanish language lessons tailored to your level, helping you navigate daily interactions and kitchen communication more confidently. At the end of the internship, you’ll receive a certificate and a letter of reference from your supervising chef, adding valuable international experience to your culinary portfolio.
11. Our Generation Voluntary Organisation (OGVO) – Volunteer and Internship Programs in Ghana
Location: Across urban and rural regions of Ghana
Cost/Stipend: Starting at $295; includes accommodation and meals with a local host family
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment
Dates: Flexible start dates available year-round; durations from 1 week to 12 months
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Open to students, gap year participants, working professionals, and families
Through OGVO, you can take part in meaningful volunteer and internship experiences across Ghana’s diverse communities. You’ll have the chance to contribute to local organizations in areas such as education, healthcare, microfinance, and journalism, among others. The program combines cultural immersion with professional exposure, offering experience in settings such as schools, clinics, wildlife parks, and law firms. You’ll stay with a vetted Ghanaian host family, allowing you to experience local traditions, language, and cuisine firsthand. With flexible scheduling, weekend travel opportunities, and continuous staff support, the program allows you to develop new skills, gain a global perspective, and contribute to long-term community impact.
12. Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation – Environmental Law & Policy Internship
Location: Aegean Islands, Greece
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid; participants are encouraged to seek external funding for travel and living expenses
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small research-focused teams
Dates: Internships typically last 3–12 months; flexible start dates available year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students, graduates, or researchers with a background in law, policy, or environmental studies; fluency in English required
In this internship, you’ll contribute to marine conservation by researching and evaluating legal frameworks that protect biodiversity in the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. You’ll analyze EU and international legislation on issues such as illegal fishing, plastic pollution, aquaculture practices, and marine habitat preservation. Your findings will support policy recommendations, advisory documents, and management plans aimed at improving conservation enforcement. While most work is research-based, you’ll also have the chance to participate in marine fieldwork alongside scientists, gaining hands-on exposure to the ecological contexts your legal work supports. This role emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, critical legal analysis, and active involvement in real-world conservation policymaking.
Looking for an immersive internship experience?
Check out Ladder Internships!
Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program where students work with startups and nonprofits from around the world! The startups range across a variety of industries. As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup they are working with, and present their work at the end of their internship. Apply now!
Image Source - CERN Logo