Thinking about an internship in China?
Who participates in Get in2 China programs?
For the most part, our China Internship Programs attract University students and recent graduates looking to gain industry-specific work experience in China. Each month we welcome interns from across Europe, the United States, Canada, Russia, Japan, India, South America, and beyond. |
Where can I intern with Get in2 China?
We offer internships in Shanghai and Beijing. |
Why should I intern in China?
Because an internship in China gives you the edge you need in today’s competitive job market. We believe, as do prominent economists that over the course of the next 100 years global economic power will shift from the U.S. and Europe to Asia, with China leading the way. You may know Shanghai as a hub of global business and finance, but do you also know about the city’s growing skateboard culture and contemporary arts scene? Beijing and Shanghai are centers of controlled chaos and excitement with as many opportunities as there are challenges. |
What are the minimum requirements to apply to the China Internship Program?
Our China Internship Program is available to individuals over the age of 18. Though an understanding of Mandarin Chinese is an advantage, it is not a requirement. We do require our applicants to speak English at a basic level. Enrollment in our China Internship Program is dependent upon securing an F Visa from your Chinese Embassy. |
Is it possible to learn Chinese during my internship?
Absolutely - and we encourage you to do so. Learning the language will not only help you get the most out of your time in China, but it is also an incredibly marketable skill to bring back home with you. Participating in our joint internship - language program will allow you to take language courses while completing your internship. |
Which China Internship Program is better for me?
This is a question that all applicants should ask themselves. We offer an internship duration ranging from 1-6 months. Applicants who intern for 3 months of longer tend to get the most out of their experience. The ‘All-Inclusive Package’ is best for applicants with minimal exposure to China. It is also the best choice for applicants looking for structure and support during their transition into China. The ‘Only Internship Placement’ option is the bare-bones package. Get in2 China will assist you in securing your internship as well as your visa, and then you are on your own. |
Basic questions about our China Internship Program
When do the programs start?
Please visit our Prices Page for the list of starting dates in 2013. |
What does the ‘All-Inclusive Package’ include?
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How long does the placement process take?
The minimum amount of time our team will need to process an application and secure an internship placement is one month. However, we advise applicants that it is best to apply at least two months prior to your planned arrival in China. |
Do you offer a home stay option?
Certain applicants may be eligible for our home stay option. We offer two types of home stay arrangements. The ‘Home Stay Only’ is the more expensive option. The other option involves the participant teaching English to the host family members for five hours per week. Home stay host families are very affluent to upper middle class, and live in private homes. The host family will give you your own private room and provide two to three meals a day. From this location, you will have access to public transportation in order to easily travel. Host families are carefully monitored and go through a detailed application process and interview before being accepted as an eligible host family. |
Can programs be extended longer than six months?
It is possible to stay in your internship position for longer than six months. This option is afforded to interns who exhibit a tremendous work ethic and aptitude. The terms of an internship extension or full-time job offer will be negotiated with the host company. |
Will I be at a disadvantage if I do not speak Chinese?
Though the ability to speak Mandarin Chinese will afford applicants a wider range of placement options, it is NOT a requirement for applicants to speak Chinese. There will be at least one English-speaking supervisor or colleague at your host company. Depending on the company and the industry, the entire office may speak English. That being said, we do encourage all applicants to learn some basic Mandarin. |
I’m a Chinese National, can I still apply?
We invite all nationalities to apply for our China Internship Program. |
Pre-Departure Questions
How much money will I need to cover living costs while in Beijing or Shanghai?
This is a loaded question as it really depends on the type of lifestyle you wish to live while in China. The pay scale in China varies dramatically and many locals are able to survive on less than $200 USD/month. But if you like to enjoy Western comforts, don’t want to eat all your meals at food stalls or take the bus instead of a taxi - cost of living can be significantly more expensive. Depending on your spending habits, around $500 USD/month should be more than enough to cover the cost of meals, transportation, and entertainment. |
Do I need to get any vaccinations before going to China?
You may need to receive certain vaccinations before traveling to China. It is best to consult with your physician (or a travel clinic) before planning your trip. |
What Visa will I need for my internship in China?
For your internship in China you will need to obtain an F visa. According to the Chinese visa policy, to apply for F visa you must provide an invitation letter from the host company. F visa is for business visit or internships. Get in2 China will assist you to get an invitation letter from the company you will be interning with. Regarding the other required documents to the Chinese embassy in your area, Get in2 China recommends that you check the Chinese embassy's website in your country to clarify the documents, procedures and costs required for your visa application. |
What are the typical working hours for a company in China?
Generally, Chinese host companies follow a working hour schedule from 9am to 6pm, with a one-hour lunch break. However, this may vary according to your host company. You will get the specific details of your working hours as you begin your internship with the host company. |
Does the internship pay a salary?
Get in2 China offers both paid and unpaid internships. The amount of compensation varies on a company-to-company basis and salary considerations should be discussed directly with the host company. Most host companies offer their interns a small stipend. The stipend is meant to cover day-to-day transportation expenses and possibly a meal. The stipend is typically NOT enough to cover to entire cost of living in China |
The “All-Inclusive” program includes four weeks accommodation. What is the standard of the accommodation?
You will be getting hooked up with high-quality shared apartments near the city center. No squatting toilets, we promise! The apartments are of Western standards and will be shared with other Get in2 China interns. These apartments are also serviced or “hotel style” - which means they will be cleaned by a cleaning service on a daily basis. Visit our Accommodations page for more information. |
Beijing and Shanghai are huge cities. How far will my apartment be from my internship?
This will of course depend on the location of your host company. Our provided accommodation is central and provides easy access to public transportation. An advantage of our all-inclusive program is that it allows you four weeks to familiarize yourself with the city while searching for more permanent accommodation. During that time period you will be able to network with other interns and decide on a location that best fits your situation. Keep in mind, when it comes to renting an apartment in Beijing and Shanghai, more central means more expensive. |
Program Changes and Additional Costs
Are there any additional costs for the activities?
If you choose to participate in our All-Inclusive program, the cost of all activities arranged by Get in2 China are included in your program fee. Those that choose the Internship Placement Only option will be invited to participate in intern events, however they must do so at their own expense.
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I arrive on the weekend/night/holiday. Will you still pick me up from the airport?
Airport pickup during standard business hours in included in the cost of the All-Inclusive package. But if you arrive outside of normal business hours or during a holiday, you will be changed an additional airport pick-up fee of $100 USD. Taking a taxi from the airport will cost significantly less money. |
I don't want a welcome package and I don’t want cultural activities; does this change the price?
If you are not interested in receiving all of the services included in our All-Inclusive package, it is recommended that you instead sign up or our Internship Placement Only option. Those who are interested in the All-Inclusive package but would prefer to arrange their own accommodation are free to do so. This will result in a $1,000 USD discount on the All-Inclusive placement fee. |
If I don’t want a shared apartment, can I pay extra for a private one?
Most of our interns are friendly and social - willing to meet and learn from others - so this situation is uncommon. However, if interns prefer to stay in private accommodation upon arrival, we can arrange for a private hotel room. |
“I’m already in China” Questions
How will I get to my company on the first day of work?
Don’t worry! A Get in2 China staff member will be by your side. Our Internship Placement Officers in Beijing and Shanghai help each intern make the transition into his or her new workplace. We will bring you to the office, introduce you to our office contact, and wish you the best of luck at your new job! |
What happens if I run into problems during my time in China?
It is unusual for our interns to encounter serious problems during their internships. So in the unlikely event of a serious problem or emergency, the Get in2 China office is the first place you should go to. Our English speaking staff will help you in whatever way necessary. |
Will there be other interns?
Absolutely. That is part of the fun. Each month we welcome new interns from all over the world. You will have the opportunity to meet and spend time with other interns during your intern orientation. Our interns are usually highly motivated, intelligent, and ambitious students and graduates. Never forget about the importance of networking - even with your fellow interns! |











