Undergraduate - Work placement

Many students choose to work during their year abroad - it’s a great opportunity to gain valuable life skills and industry experience, and looks very good on your CV. And if you choose to work in a non-English-speaking country, you’ll even be able to add your newly acquired or much improved language skills.

Here we take a look at some of the work abroad schemes available.

The IAESTE scheme

If you’re an undergraduate studying engineering, science or applied arts subjects, you’ll be interested in the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE). 

It's designed to help students gain relevant work experience overseas. There are paid placements which are open to second-year students or above. All in all, it's a great way to further your academic prospects, gain a unique selling point in the job market and develop personal skills.

Most placements are for six to 12 weeks, between June and September; longer placements are sometimes available. Not all placements require you to speak a second language, so in some cases you'll only need English.

The British Council’s IAESTE website has information on how to apply.

Erasmus

An increasing number of students throughout Europe are taking advantage of the opportunity to carry out a work placement under the Erasmus  programme as it provides such a good preparation for future employment. Sometimes employers will give you a basic income which can be added to your grant.

Combining learning with a work placement

Subject to agreement with your home and host institutions, you could combine a study period with a work placement. Many students like the way that this offers a balanced academic and vocational experience.

Your university’s international student office will have more information on how to find placements.