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Overview of Internship Programs in France

For those with intermediate-level French language skills looking for a competitive edge in the European and global job market, as well as a chance to dive into the heart of European culture, interning in France is an unforgettable opportunity. Combine living in world-class cities like Paris or Nice with an immersive, one-of-a-kind professional internship in your career field.

In addition to hands-on experience in the industry, World Endeavors interns in France gain practical language skills. Interns begin their program with two weeks of intensive French language courses to prepare for the workplace. Class sizes are small, and instruction is roughly 20 hours per week. Classes are focused on general language studies, as well as dedicated to the practical application of the French language (e.g., vocabulary pertaining to participants’ internship placements).

World Endeavors offers internships in a wide range of professional fields in France, and our advisors are proud of their ability to find great opportunities in unique and highly specialized fields.

WHY DO AN INTERNSHIP IN FRANCE

France’s global reputation for art, culture, fashion, and culinary excellence makes it a hub of creativity and innovation. An internship in this culturally rich and diverse country allows you to immerse yourself in the world of art galleries, historical landmarks, haute couture, and exquisite cuisine, providing a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond professional development.

France’s strong presence in industries such as luxury goods, technology, finance, and hospitality offers a wide range of internship opportunities across various sectors. Gaining practical experience in these industries within a multicultural and international setting can significantly enhance your skills and broaden your professional horizons. Additionally, learning or improving your French language skills during the internship can further boost your global employability. Overall, an internship in France offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, language immersion, and career advancement, making it an invaluable experience for any ambitious individual seeking a unique and transformative internship journey.

FRANCE INTERNSHIP HIGHLIGHTS

Here are just a few of the best things about interning in France:

  • Interning in France offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the country’s rich culture, art, history, and culinary delights. Living in iconic cities like Paris and Nice exposes interns to world-class museums, historic landmarks, and a vibrant cultural scene.
  • France is renowned worldwide for its contributions to various industries, including fashion, luxury goods, technology, and gastronomy.
  • Interning in France allows individuals to enhance their French language skills, which can open doors to broader career opportunities.
  • Internship experience in France provides a chance to build a diverse professional network, connecting with colleagues, mentors, and industry experts from different cultural backgrounds.

Our France Internship Programs

Browse all of our internship programs in France below. If you can’t find a suitable internship, check out our main program finder to continue your search for internships beyond France.

Intern Abroad
France

Occupational Therapy Internship in France

Within the clinical and hospital settings of France, Occupational Therapy interns collaborate closely with occupational therapists, honing their skills in patient care while simultaneously expanding their knowledge across various domains of their profession.

Occupational Therapy Internship in France

Within the clinical and hospital settings of France, Occupational Therapy interns collaborate closely with occupational therapists, honing their skills in patient care while simultaneously expanding their knowledge across various domains of their profession.

Intern Abroad
France

Wine Internship in France

In France, wine interns are given the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of vineyards and wine companies. They play an integral role in supporting various activities, ranging from production to marketing.

Wine Internship in France

In France, wine interns are given the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of vineyards and wine companies. They play an integral role in supporting various activities, ranging from production to marketing. This immersive experience not only helps them acquire practical skills but also fosters a deep admiration for the wine and culture of the specific region they are working in.

Intern Abroad Man is talking to a couple while in a busy street of the city.
France

Social Work Internship in France

Within France, Social Work interns partner with nonprofit and government organizations, providing valuable support to individual clients and actively participating in community outreach initiatives, while also contributing to public health and safety programs.

Social Work Internship in France

Within France, Social Work interns partner with nonprofit and government organizations, providing valuable support to individual clients and actively participating in community outreach initiatives, while also contributing to public health and safety programs.

Intern Abroad
France

Public Health Internship in France

In France, public health interns collaborate closely with public health officials in government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Together, they undertake projects centered on preventing diseases and injuries, evaluating community health needs, tackling environmental challenges, and shaping public policy.

Public Health Internship in France

In France, public health interns collaborate closely with public health officials in government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Together, they undertake projects centered on preventing diseases and injuries, evaluating community health needs, tackling environmental challenges, and shaping public policy.

Intern Abroad
France

Physical Therapy Internship in France

The internships available for physical therapy students in France provide a multifaceted learning experience. By working in the offices of physical therapists and sports trainers, interns not only enhance their understanding of patient care but also gain exposure to the business and administrative side of their profession.

Physical Therapy Internship in France

The internships available for physical therapy students in France provide a multifaceted learning experience. By working in the offices of physical therapists and sports trainers, interns not only enhance their understanding of patient care but also gain exposure to the business and administrative side of their profession.

Intern Abroad
France

Nonprofit Management Internship in France

Nonprofit Management interns in France may actively participate in community outreach initiatives, organizing and coordinating events that raise awareness about the organization's mission and encourage local community involvement.

Nonprofit Management Internship in France

Nonprofit Management interns in France may actively participate in community outreach initiatives, organizing and coordinating events that raise awareness about the organization’s mission and encourage local community involvement.

Intern Abroad
France

Museum and Cultural Management Internship in France

The internship program in Museum and Cultural Management in France provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in numerous activities, including research, curation, archiving, analysis, restoration, and administration.

Museum and Cultural Management Internship in France

The internship program in Museum and Cultural Management in France provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in numerous activities, including research, curation, archiving, analysis, restoration, and administration.

Intern Abroad
France

Marketing Internship in France

In France, marketing interns can be found in advertising agencies as well as in the marketing departments of various companies. They play a crucial role in campaign planning and management, market analysis, website and social media assistance, and client interface.

Marketing Internship in France

In France, marketing interns can be found in advertising agencies as well as in the marketing departments of various companies. They play a crucial role in campaign planning and management, market analysis, website and social media assistance, and client interface.

Paris

Attracting millions of tourists from around the world each year, Paris is one of the most widely-visited cities in the world. This large metropolitan city offers its visitors a wealth of cultural activities and attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Champs Élysées. However, the city is anything but one-dimensional. Each of Paris’ twenty arrondissements (administrative districts) exudes its own unique culture and attitude, from the Latin Quarter in the 5th to the classic bohemian feel of the 18th. Paris is the ideal destination to experience the hustle and bustle of a big city, but also to enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Seine on a warm summer evening. With museums on almost every corner, World Endeavors interns will be sure to experience life as a true Parisian during their internship as well as after-hours.

Nice

Nestled along the Mediterranean Sea less than an hour from the Italian border, Nice offers its visitors a truly unique experience. With a wonderfully rich cultural background, including strong Italian influences, Nice features many museums, a beautiful historic quarter, a growing restaurant scene, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean. The city also has an incredibly welcoming community of friendly locals and plenty for people of all ages to do, see, and discover. Nice offers a unique way of life and an extraordinary artistic culture shaped by musicians, painters, writers, and chefs.

Bordeaux

The central hub of France’s wine region, Bordeaux is known for its world-class vineyards and restaurants, its varied historic and contemporary architecture, and its vibrant student culture. With half of the city’s buildings listed as Unesco sites, it is the largest urban World Heritage site. Bordeaux’s older buildings, from Roman coliseums to 18th Century chateaus to Gothic Cathedrals, are complimented by a collection of innovative new structures, and its University population keeps the city going at a high pace. Bordeaux is the perfect destination for food lovers and those who enjoy an artfully crafted blend of the old and the new.

Dates & costs

Internships are available year-round, with flexible start dates and durations. Public holidays and seasonal work availability may impact certain start dates in some locations.

Please wait until after you are accepted into the program and you have received the confirmed arrival and departure dates before you book your flight.

Note: Due to visa constraints, the standard duration for interning in France is 10 weeks. Contact World Endeavors if you have an interest in participating for a longer duration.

Eligibility

  • World Endeavors interns should be 18 years or older and should have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the start of their program.
  • Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.
  • It is recommended to have a background in your desired internship field, but not absolutely required. Internship placement opportunities increase with experience or relevant coursework.
  • Interns considering France should have an intermediate to advance level of French language skills.
  • This program is open to students and non-students, although placements for non-students are typically with NGOs.

Housing

World Endeavors interns in France either stay in a private single bedroom with a local French family, or stay in a shared student residence. Housing is located in close proximity to public transportation, which allows a convenient and authentic commute to work.

First Month: $4,190 | Each Additional Month: $1,690

Every World Endeavors Internship Program Includes

Our internships are as unique as the countries that host them, but there are program features that unify all of our internship experiences.

YOUR INTERNSHIP

  • Professional customized internship placement
  • Year-round program availability
  • Flexible durations from 2 to 6 months

CAREER READINESS PROGRAM

  • Resume clinic and interview skills workshop
  • One-on-one coaching
  • Professional competencies development

ACCOMMODATION

  • Variety of options available – host family, shared apartment, student residence
  • Vetted and selected with quality, safety and proximity to your placement in mind

CAREER AND ACADEMIC INTEGRATION

  • Re-entry handbook and support
  • Academic credit facilitation
  • Post-program assistance with resume updates and completion certificate
  • World Endeavors Alumni Network

TEAM OF EXPERTS

  • Dedicated one-on-one advisor
  • Local on-site coordinator
  • Internship placement supervisor

PEACE OF MIND

  • Comprehensive travel medical insurance
  • Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
  • 24/7 emergency travel assistance
  • Professional liability insurance

HEALTH & SAFETY

When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety. 

We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN FRANCE

France offers a wide range of activities and experiences to enjoy during your spare time. Here are some suggestions for things to do in France:

  • Explore Historical Landmarks: Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, the Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, and the Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley, among many others.
  • Wander through Museums and Art Galleries: France is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, such as the Louvre in Paris, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Centre Pompidou.
  • Taste the Culinary Delights: France is a culinary paradise, and indulging in its cuisine is a must. Savor classic French dishes like escargot, coq au vin, croissants, baguettes, and a vast array of cheeses and wines.
  • Relax in Parks and Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic in one of France’s beautiful parks and gardens.

How to choose the best Internship program

Choosing your internship program is easy when you evaluate your priorities. Follow these steps to guide you toward your ideal program.

Explore a New Career

Interning abroad offers a great opportunity to explore your professional and personal interests, and help define your career path. Peruse our internship fields and past examples to find the best fit.

Choose Your Dream Destination

Finding a meaningful way to combine interning and travel to your dream location is a big incentive. Carefully consider which destinations suit your interests and international internship goals.

Improve Language Skills

Immersing yourself in a language-rich environment is the ultimate method for developing fluency. If language-learning is your goal, favor destinations that use your language of choice.

Fit your budget

Explore scholarships and financial aid to determine if these may impact your destination options. Consider the overall cost of the program and cost of living in-country to identify the optimal match.

Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.

SEARCH

Academic Credit

Do you want to earn academic credit for your international internship? Nearly half of World Endeavors participants earn credit while interning abroad. Many students are required to participate in an internship to fulfill a requirement for their degree program. World Endeavors works closely with students and their academic advisors to ensure that our program meets those requirements. If you don’t fall into that category there is another exciting option for you. Through our collaboration with University of California Berkeley, students can earn UC Berkeley credit by taking one of two online courses while interning abroad.

INTERNSHIP CREDIT INFORMATION

Recent Testimonials

TrentIntern in Australia

I gained a stronger sense of independence. I have always been self-motivated but this program gave me the reassurance to take on new experiences.

MeganIntern in Australia

I’m now better prepared and excited for my upcoming classes because my internship provided me with relevant experiences. Being an international intern helped me step out of my comfort zone and gain self-knowledge, which was my goal.

NidishIntern in Argentina

I’m very happy with how the program went. It was such a great experience -
I want to go back.

BrittanyIntern in Czech Republic

It was so empowering for me - a huge boost to my self esteem!

AltairIntern in Costa Rica

“It was way more than I ever expected. I wanted to do this because I’m applying to med school - It’s been life-changing and so worth my time. I feel like I got so lucky.

KristenIntern in Morocco

It was amazing! Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone - the spontaneous adventures are gold!

WhitneyIntern in Costa Rica

Absolutely amazing. I learned so many new things I had never learned before and I’m still in touch with my host family.

BridgetIntern in Czech Republic

I went into it having high expectations and everything was completely fulfilled. I learned a lot - it was amazing.

CourtneyIntern in Ecuador

Oh my goodness, it was incredible! It was so cool! I got to travel and see and do much more than I was anticipating! My Spanish improved so much while I was there! I definitely got a lot of experience in OT, and was able to clock all of my shadowing hours for OT school.

France FAQs

Do You Need a Visa to Travel to France?

You will need to have a valid passport to travel to France. However, you may not need a visa if you stay in France for 90 days or less. Depending on the length of your program, you may need to apply for a long-stay passport or a student visa. Depending on the visa you are applying for, you may also need proof of financial means and health insurance.

Don’t worry too much about your visa requirements, though! Once you choose a World Endeavors program, our helpful advisors will guide you on visa requirements and the process you’ll need to follow.

Is it Safe to Travel to France?

France is generally considered safe for travel. It’s a popular destination for its rich culture, historical landmarks, and culinary delights. While petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, exercising common sense and precautions can minimize risks. Stay informed about local guidelines, follow safety advisories, and be mindful of your belongings.

What Currency Does France Use?

France is part of the European Union and uses the euro as its official currency.

Where to Travel in France?

France is a country with a wide variety of places to explore. From the beautiful beaches of the south to the bustling cities of the north, there is something for everyone in France. Some must-see destinations include Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, and Marseille.

What is the Population of France?

The population of France was around 67 million people as of September 2021.

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Our Top Intern Abroad Destinations

World Endeavors volunteers support communities in several destinations in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Oceania. Our programs are located in a variety of sites, including urban and rural, economically developed and developing, and English-speaking and non-English speaking.

How to apply for an Internship Abroad

You’ve decided to intern abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. Get ready to PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE!

STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK

Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.

STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.

STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE

Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!

STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!

You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready to gain skills and grow your network abroad!