Application Process

Before applying

Before making an application decision, we advise you to get in touch with us by email at contact@nextstepconnections.com or by phone at +862163225990. You should also take the time to browse through the different pages of our website to get more information on our programs. You may also request to speak with previous participants.

How do I start the application process?

Click on apply now and fill out our online application form. It shouldn't take you more than 20mns. You will also have the option to save your application and continue later if you wish.

Application steps:

  1. Submit your application
  2. Application confirmation and review
  3. Application acceptance and deposit payment
  4. Internship Placement Process
  5. Internship confirmation
  6. Initial payment (50% of the program fee)
  7. Visa application
  8. Outstanding balance payment
  9. Pre-arrival stage (flight and housing confirmation)

What happens after I submit my application?

Within 24-36 hours, Kathryn, our application coordinator, will acknowledge reception of your application by sending you an email for you to confirm your application details.

Once you have confirmed your information, our application committee will review your application and decide on your acceptance. (3-5 days)

If accepted, we will schedule a phone call with one of our program advisors to get a full understanding of your goals. We will also make sure to answer any questions you may have.

Deposit Payment

If you're accepted to our program, you will be required to settle a deposit of US$450 to start the placement process. The payment can be done via international bank transfer or via credit card using PayPal. Once we have received your initial deposit, your internship is guaranteed. In case we can not find an internship placement that meets your industry background, we will return your fees.

Why am I paying a deposit upfront?

As we receive hundreds of inquiries on a daily basis, the deposit is an initial commitment that enables our team to start working on your application. The placement process involves a lot of interactions between potential host companies and our advisors. It's a rather complicated process, thus our team only start working when the deposit has been received.

Internship placement process

Once we have received your deposit, you will be assigned a program advisor who will be your main point of contact during the entire process. We will liaise with you by email, skype or phone. The process takes a minimum of two weeks and can take up to six weeks or more depending on when we receive your application.When we start the placement process, we will assess which position fits your internship expectations based on the company requirements. We usually are able to offer you 2 to 3 positions to choose from. We organise phone interviews with companies to make the process easier on both sides.

Internship confirmation

Once you have officially accepted an internship that has been offered by one of our partner companies. We will require you to settle 50% of your outstanding balance in order to start working on your visa application.

Visa granted and Pre-arrival stage

Once your visa has been granted by the immigration authorities, we will ask you to settle the remaining 50% payment. At this stage, we will make the final arrangements and prepare your arrival (airport pick-up, housing booking, first day of work).

In-country pick-up and orientation

Our team will pick you up at the airport upon arrival. We will take you to your housing and organize a formal orientation to get your familiar with your surroundings, meet our team and fellow participants. You are now ready to start your internship and take on the next step to a life-changing journey.