Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my deposit back if I am not satisfied with my internship?

If you are not satisfied with your internship placement or if we are unable to find a suitable internship company for you, and thus you wish to withdraw from the program, we will fully refund your deposit. However, cancellations for personal reasons at any point of the pre-arrival or arrival process will not result in any refund of the deposit.

How much is the deposit? Can I pay in a different currency?

The deposit is USD 450. We do accept payments in EUR, GBP, HKD and RMB as an alternative.

I am not a fresh graduate but an experienced professional. Is your program fitted to my needs?

We do have a lot of experienced professionals looking for a career break/change who have joined our program in the past. Each internship is tailor-made so we really take the time to understand each applicant's requirement before securing the right internship.

How much does the international internship program cost?

Next Step Connections is a fee-based professional internship program. Our program includes your internship placement, housing, travel insurance, airport transfers and more. Our full program starts from US$2800. Fees are available in each of our city program's information page.

When can I start?

Our program is custom-based, meaning that you can choose when your internship starts and finishes. We do generally need at least 8 weeks to process your application, but we encourage you to apply as soon as you have decided to go. If you decide last minute, you can still contact us and we will try our best to arrange your international internship.

What is the support like at destination?

Our English-speaking staff in Asia set up internships, preview your accommodation beforehand, meet you at the airport, and provide you with any support you need during your placement. You will also have a supervisor at your place of work.

What if I am ill abroad?

If you are ill while abroad, our staff will know where the best medical care can be found. You will receive information on this when you first arrive in the city. You are also covered by a comprehensive insurance policy, which includes flying you home and all your medical costs.

Do I need any previous experience?

No. All you need is enthusiasm and a drive to succeed in your chosen field. With that said, relevant experience in your field prior to the internship may help your chances to enter a larger firm.

Is there a minimum/maximum age?

Participants should be over the age of 18. However we do run a Young Entrepreneur summer program which is available for students under 18.

Are flights included?

No, flights to/from the destination are not included. However, we can give you advice about where to look for great rates. You should also check with our partner Student Universe as they are able to get amazing rates for students.

Where are your internships located in Asia?

Our internships are located in Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong, China as well as in Mumbai, India.

Are these internships paid?

All our internships are unpaid in Mainland China and India as it is illegal to get paid for an internship in those two destinations. Chinese laws are strict: If you are to receive any salary from a company in China, you are liable to pay taxes and thus required to carry a valid work and residence permit. A lot of placement agencies are offering paid internships in China, which may sound attractive but is completely against the law.

Do I need to apply for a visa?

Mainland China: Yes. We will provide you with all the necessary documents so that you can get your F-business visa from the Chinese embassy in your home country.

India: Yes, We will provide you with all the necessary documents so that you can get your entry visa from the Indian embassy in your home country.

Hong Kong: We provide all our applicants with training visas valid for up to 12 months. The process is handled in Hong Kong by our team.

What are the health preparations that I need to carry out?

It is recommended that you see your physician and preferably a doctor at a travel medicine clinic at least 4-6 weeks before you are scheduled to depart. There are some recommended vaccines (especially Hepatitis) and it's important that you take the necessary precautions and be up-to-date on your routine vaccines.

Can I extend my internship once I am at destination?

Of course! Once you have made up your mind, our local staff will help you out with the formalities. However we need at least three weeks to make the necessary arrangements.

Do I need to speak the local language?

While all our internships are based with English-speaking companies, it is a valuable asset to speak Chinese. It opens up more placement opportunities. We also offer the opportunity to learn the local language (or improve it) should you wish.

Who will I be living with?

During your internship program you will be living in a studio or shared accommodation (private room in shared apartment) in the city centre with other interns who are in the program at the same time as you. There will be no members of our staff living with you.

Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions that we have not covered in our FAQ.