Next Step Connections - FAQ'S
How much does the internship program cost?
Next Step Connections is a fee-based Professional Internship program. Our program includes your internship placement, housing, travel insurance, airport transfers, chinese lessons, stipends...and more. Check our rates.
When can I start?
You 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 an internship for you.
What is the support like overseas?
Our English-speaking staff in China set up internship placements, check out your accommodation, 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 in China?
If you are ill while in China, our staff will know where the best medical care can be found. You will receive information on this when you first arrive in China. 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.
That said, relevant experience in your field prior to the internship may help to impress your employer.
Is there a minimum/maximum age?
Participants should be over the age of 18.
Are flights included?
No, Flights to/from China are not included. However we can give you advice about it.
Where are your internships located in China?
Our internships are located in Shanghai and Hong Kong.
Are these internships paid?
All our internships are unpaid in Mainland China as It is illegal to be paid for an internship in China. 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. However part of our program includes a monthly basic allowance to cover your daily lunches and transportation expenses.
All our internships are paid in Hong Kong. The average salary is 7,000 HKD.
Do I need to apply for a visa?
Yes. We will provide you with all the necessary documents so that you can get your visa from the Chinese embassy in your home country.
What are the health preparations that I need to carry out?
While no vaccinations are required for a trip to China (except for Yellow Fever if you're arriving from an infected area), 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 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 in China?
Of course! Once you have made up your mind, our local staff in Shanghai will help you out with the formalities. However we need at least 3 weeks to make the necessary arrangements.
Do I need to speak Chinese?
While all our internships are based with English-speaking companies, it is a valuable asset than to speak Chinese. It opens up more placements opportunies. We also offer the opportunity to learn Mandarin (or improve it) should you wish.
Who will I be living with?
During your internship program you will be living in Studio or shared accommodation (Private room in shared apartment) in in the city centre with other interns who are on programs with us at the same time as you. There will be no members of our staff living with you.
