Working abroad finding international internships and entry-level jobs

2 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

ustralia. China. Kenya. France. Brazil. For many people, think-

ing about these distant lands conjures up images of speaking in

foreign tongues, eating exotic foods, and listening to music that

has a local ﬂair. Different cultures have varied lifestyles that often seem

more exciting or glamorous than our own. Regardless of whether our

perceptions of other cultures are real, the allure of experiencing a new

culture ﬁrsthand entices people to go abroad.

by Jill N. Lacey

Jill N. Lacey is an economist in the Division of Labor Force Statistics, BLS, (202) 691-5806.

WORKING

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 3

planning ahead can make working abroad personally and

professionally rewarding.

This article describes some of the programs that help

workers start careers in far-off places. It describes types

of international work, including student internships and

short-term work; U.S. Government work; teaching, agri-

cultural, and au pair positions; and volunteer opportuni-

ties. The article also includes tips on navigating a foreign

job search and preparing for and ﬁnancing a trip abroad.

Finding international internships and entry-level jobs

Increasingly, people seek international work to com-

pletely immerse themselves in the language and culture

of their host country. Working abroad can provide many

beneﬁts, such as improving foreign language skills, net-

working with local employers, and developing ﬂexibility

and intercultural understanding. The skills learned abroad

can be used later on the job in the United States—and

may give some workers an advantage over those who do

not have international experience.

But before you pack your bags, there are some

issues to consider. You’ll need a passport, identiﬁ-

cation, and money, of course; depending on where

you’re going, you might also need immunizations

and travel visas. In addition, most countries require

foreign workers to have a valid work visa, and the

process of obtaining a visa can be difﬁcult and time

consuming.

If you want to add an international work experi-

ence to your resume, it’s never too early to begin

planning. Programs exist for people who are inter-

ested in a variety of careers—teaching, agriculture,

business, and foreign relations, to name just a few.

Many of these programs are open only to cur-

rent students or recent graduates and can require

a lengthy application process. You may also need

some time to locate a position on your own and to

save enough money to support yourself while work-

ing abroad. Carefully identifying a program and

WORKING ABROAD

4 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

The beneﬁts of working abroad

Glance through most recent headlines, and you’ll see that

globalization is a hot topic. The number of U.S. ﬁrms

expanding abroad and the number of foreign companies

operating in the United States have been growing. This

global expansion of business is increasing the demand

for globally minded employees.

As a result, knowledge of international business

practices is becoming highly valued in job candidates.

Often, the best way to learn these practices is by working

abroad, even for a short time.

Professional beneﬁts

Temporary work abroad can provide numerous beneﬁts

for people who wish to land a permanent position in the

future. The Institute for International Education of Stu-

dents surveyed alumni from its study abroad programs.

According to those survey results, students were more

likely to enter an international career if they had complet-

ed an internship while abroad. Studying in a non-Eng-

lish-speaking country and developing local professional

contacts also increased their chances of ﬁnding interna-

tional work in the future.

Working—rather than just studying—abroad helps

students apply what they have learned in the classroom

to the real world, boosting their qualiﬁcations and chanc-

es of landing a permanent position. Kristy Green studied

in Spain during her senior year of high school, but it was

her internship with a Spanish political party during col-

lege that cemented her career goals. As an international

studies and business major, Green wanted to show that

she could apply what she had learned. “Although I had

been abroad before, I lacked international work experi-

ence,” she says. “With this experience, I expect to be able

to get additional internships with international responsi-

bilities during my next 2 years of college and be above

average in skill and experience when looking for a job

after graduation.”

Even if a permanent international position is not your

goal, the skills you learn abroad can be applied to jobs

in the United States. Jon Hills hopes that his experience

teaching English and working for a translation company

in Japan will help him ﬁnd work in the Japanese ﬁnan-

cial industry. And that experience, in turn, will make

him more marketable as a ﬁnancial analyst in the United

States. “Having a job overseas equivalent to one I would

hold in the States is a worthwhile experience that will

give me a huge advantage in the U.S. job market,” says

Hills.

Personal beneﬁts

In addition to professional advantages, there are personal

beneﬁts gained by working abroad. Having a temporary

job abroad allows you time to explore different career

options or to gain new experiences. Some people decide

to work abroad between college and graduate school or

before beginning a new job. They hope to learn more

about themselves and what types of careers they want or

to rest and reﬂect before beginning a new phase in

their lives.

Experiencing other cultures is an attraction for

most people who decide to work abroad. Living in

a new culture provides different perspectives and

helps increase the understanding of others. And

some see in international work a chance to share

with others who do not have the high standard of

living enjoyed in the United States.

A world of work:

Options for international jobs

The ﬁrst step to working abroad is to identify

programs that match your interests. Programs

can differ in their location, the assistance they

offer, their costs, and more. So, it is important to

research each program thoroughly before making

substantial time and ﬁnancial commitments.

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 5

When exploring programs, consider the follow-

ing criteria:

• Professional focus. There are programs that

provide opportunities in nearly all professional

disciplines. These programs can provide insight

into what it’s really like to work in certain

career ﬁelds.

• Location of program. Programs exist in

countries on every continent. A program’s loca-

tion can affect your satisfaction with your expe-

rience. Usually, people choose locations based

on which languages they wish to learn or which

countries they wish to visit. Other consider-

ations include the country’s standard of living

and climate and whether the job is located in a

big city or a small village.

• Degree of cultural immersion. Exposure

to local culture also varies among programs.

Overseas interns who work for the U.S. Government

usually work in embassies, mostly interacting with

American workers; in contrast, au pairs live with lo-

cal families and interact mostly with residents of the

host country.

• Degree of pre-trip job placement. Some pro-

grams only issue work visas and provide minimal

assistance for locating employment and housing.

In these programs, you are responsible for ﬁnding

your own job and accommodations. Other programs

arrange speciﬁc jobs and housing, based on your

interests and needs.

• Duration of program. Programs vary in length,

from several weeks to several years.

When narrowing your list of programs, learn about

the qualiﬁcations required. Most programs have age

or other restrictions. Others may have coursework or

professional requirements. Some programs also require a

speciﬁc level of language proﬁciency. Nearly all require a

formal application, often due months in advance. For a

list of speciﬁc work programs and their contact informa-

tion, see pages 19-23.

Private-sector internships and

other short-term work

As the world becomes more integrated, the number of

students choosing to intern abroad is growing. According

to the Institute of International Education’s 2005 Open

Doors Survey, the number of students completing study

abroad internships for college credit grew by 44 percent

between 1999-2000 and 2003-04. Pursuing these intern-

ships or other international work can be a ﬁrst step to

starting an international career.

International internships are available in almost any

industry and with any type of employer. Internships can

be paid or unpaid, depending on the industry and type of

visa issued, and vary in length from 1 summer to 1 year.

Organizations that partner with foreign governments

grant temporary work visas to American citizens. Work

visas usually are also available through foreign embassies

if people have arranged an internship beforehand with

an international employer. But because organizations are

familiar with the visa application process, working with

them can save time and frustration.

The three main options for short-term international

work are study abroad internships, internship placement

organizations, and student work-visa programs.

Study abroad internships. An increasing number of

study abroad programs offer internships as part of their

course offerings. Although these internships are usually

unpaid, interns receive academic credit. For the dura-

tion of the internship, participants usually meet with an

internship coordinator or mentor to discuss their work

and progress.

Study abroad internships are available in many

academic areas of interest and may be the easiest way

to ﬁnd work in the more competitive areas such as the

arts, journalism, and marketing. Sometimes, applicants

6 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

ple who have the initiative to ﬁnd their own internships or

for those who want to earn some spending money while

they are traveling abroad. As is the case in the United

States, there are many opportunities abroad for college-

aged students willing to work in service jobs, such as in

restaurants, resorts, or retail stores.

Temporary work visas for U.S. citizens are issued

only by a handful of countries, albeit some of the more

popular destinations. The duration of the visa varies by

country. For example, temporary visas are offered by

Australia (4-month visa), Canada (5-month visa), Ire-

land (4-month visa), New Zealand (12-month visa), and

the United Kingdom (6-month visa). In most cases, it is

possible to obtain visas for both Ireland and the United

Kingdom, or Australia and New Zealand, to maximize

time spent working abroad.

Temporary visas allow you to work in any paid

job—except one in professional sports or entertain-

ment—in the country of issuance for the duration of

the visa. Visa holders are able to change jobs as many

times as they wish before the visa expires. Generally,

applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents

aged 18 to 30. Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom

also require applicants to be full-time college students or

recent graduates who obtained their degree less than one

semester prior to obtaining the visa. Contact a country’s

embassy to learn more about work-visa requirements.

U.S. Government foreign affairs positions

An internship or permanent position with the U.S. Gov-

ernment might be ideal for those who have an interest in

foreign affairs or international economics and business.

The Foreign Service Act of 1980 designated four ofﬁcial

foreign affairs ofﬁces within the U.S. Government: the

Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), the U.S. Agency for

International Development (USAID), the U.S. Depart-

ment of State, and the U.S. and Foreign Commercial

Service (USFCS).

These agencies promote U.S. diplomatic and com-

mercial interests abroad and participate in international

negotiations. All four agencies offer internships and

permanent positions abroad for qualiﬁed U.S. citizens.

The agencies also offer domestic internships in Washing-

ton, D.C., which can provide valuable insight into foreign

service work.

Foreign Agricultural Service. The FAS is the inter-

national agency within the U.S. Department of Agricul-

for study abroad internships must have a minimum grade

point average.

Usually, study abroad programs have well-estab-

lished contacts with local employers and access to intern-

ships that are unavailable to general applicants. Prior to

arrival in the country, the program tries to match the ap-

plicant with a local employer. Once in the country, most

applicants interview for their potential internship before

starting work.

Students should check with the study abroad ofﬁce of

their college or university to ﬁnd out if they can receive

academic credit for participating in a given study abroad

program.

Usually, there is no separate application or participa-

tion fee for a program’s internships.

Internship placement organizations. Numerous

nonproﬁt organizations match college students or recent

graduates with an international internship in their ﬁeld of

study. Most internships are for a semester or a year; some

are paid.

Even though these internships are not formal study

abroad programs, some U.S. colleges and universities

grant academic credit upon completion.

Some placement organizations specialize in intern-

ships for particular career ﬁelds—engineering, business,

or the sciences, for example. Most placement organiza-

tions also secure student work visas, even if the applicant

did not ﬁnd an internship through them.

Internship placement organizations usually charge a

fee for their services.

Student work-visa programs. Many students ﬁnd

their own internships or jobs rather than going through a

school or internship program, and part of that process is

getting permission to work. Employers can often spon-

sor work visas if they can prove that you have knowledge

and skills that local workers don’t. Finding an employer

willing to put forth the effort to sponsor you takes pa-

tience and perseverance, especially if you do not have

previous international work experience.

But in some countries, you don’t need a prearranged

internship to apply for a temporary work visa and to

move abroad. A few organizations specialize in arrang-

ing for work visas, leaving students on their own to ﬁnd

employment and housing; some of these agencies also

offer help with the initial job search.

Students may choose to ﬁnd employment once they

arrive in their host country. This is a good option for peo-

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 7

ture. This agency administers programs that are designed

to build new markets and improve the competitive posi-

tion of U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace and to

improve food security worldwide.

The FAS employs agricultural economists and mar-

keting specialists in more than 90 countries. Internships

are available for both college students and entry-level

professionals.

• International Agricultural Internship Program.

This program is for senior-level undergraduates or

for graduate students in business, economics, interna-

tional relations, law, or science-related ﬁelds. Rele-

vant work experience and foreign language skills can

make applicants more competitive. Interns complete

summer or semester internships in U.S. embassies

abroad. The list of available countries changes every

year.

Unlike student internships in the State Depart-

ment and the Commercial Service, these positions

are paid. Interns often complete ofﬁce tasks in addi-

tion to researching and writing reports and compiling

foreign agricultural intelligence.

• Career Intern Program. This program is for

entry-level professionals. The internships last 2 years

and include four rotational assignments in Wash-

ington, D.C. Applicants should have a degree in a

relevant ﬁeld, such as agricultural economics; some

work experience; leadership ability; and advanced

communication skills.

After completing the internship, career interns are

eligible for a full-time position in the FAS, and the 2-year

D.C. internship qualiﬁes them for foreign postings be-

cause it counts toward the 18 months of experience that

employees must have to go abroad.

U.S. Agency for International Development. USAID

provides economic development and humanitarian

assistance to other nations. Examples of USAID

assistance include promoting democracy,

aiding in recovery from natural disasters,

combating diseases and other health

concerns, cleaning up the environment,

and helping entrepreneurs establish

small businesses. Most of the posi-

tions are in developing nations in

Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe,

Eurasia, and Latin America. Most

international assignments are for sev-

eral years, depending on the agency’s

needs.

USAID offers two programs for

entry-level professionals: the Interna-

tional Development Intern program

and the New Entry Professional

program. The intern program recruits

recent college graduates; the profes-

sional program requires experience

in development work, either abroad

or in economically underserved U.S.

communities. Both programs recruit

people with backgrounds in ﬁnancial

management, economic development,

contracting, or crisis, stabilization,

and governance.

Prior to working in their ﬁrst

8 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

foreign post, program graduates train for 6 to 24 months

in Washington, D.C.

U.S. Department of State. As the main foreign affairs

agency of the U.S. Government, the State Department

performs many functions. Major duties include develop-

ing U.S. foreign policy, negotiating treaties with other

countries, providing foreign aid and assistance, issuing

visas to foreign citizens who wish to come to the United

States, and protecting U.S. citizens traveling abroad.

The State Department operates embassies in more

than 180 countries and offers a variety of career tracks

for college students and recent graduates from almost all

educational disciplines, not just international studies or

foreign affairs. International assignments are available for

student interns and for two types of full-time workers.

• Student internships. Undergraduate and graduate

students are eligible to apply for summer or semester

internships in a U.S. embassy abroad. Interns help

support the diplomatic missions of the embassies by

researching topics, writing reports and briefs, helping

to maintain Web sites, organizing embassy activities,

arranging travel for U.S. diplomats, and performing

ofﬁce tasks. Most interns are not paid, although paid

internships are available for applicants who can dem-

onstrate ﬁnancial need. Many embassies also provide

interns with free or subsidized housing during the in-

ternship. Students may also receive academic credit.

Internship placements are based on an embassy’s

personnel needs, so opportunities in a particular

country may not always be available. Applicants

can indicate their countries of interest and apply for

internships in two different bureaus within the State

Department in any given year. Only seven bureaus

offer international placements, so applicants should

carefully consider expressing a preference.

Applicants must be able to obtain a secret or top

secret security clearance prior to their internship.

Some applicants may also need to submit to

random drug tests.

The State Department accepts interns

from many different areas of study. Proﬁ-

ciency in the local language is not neces-

sary, but it can give an applicant an edge in

the selection process.

• U.S. Foreign Service ofﬁcers. People

who want a permanent position in foreign

affairs might seek to become a Foreign Ser-

vice ofﬁcer. Foreign Service ofﬁcers gener-

ally work as diplomats in U.S. embassies

and U.S. consulates abroad. They pursue

one of ﬁve career tracks: management affairs,

consular affairs, economic affairs, political affairs,

or public diplomacy. All ﬁve options are available to

applicants with any academic background.

Whatever their career, Foreign Service ofﬁcers

spend the ﬁrst 2 or 3 years working as a consular

ofﬁcer, which usually involves conducting U.S. visa

interviews of foreign citizens. Ofﬁcers then move to

positions in their chosen track.

Many U.S. embassies are located in developing

countries and are labeled hardship posts. Ofﬁcers can

expect to serve in one or more hardship posts during

their ﬁrst few assignments. Housing is provided by

the embassy or consulate.

To become a Foreign Service ofﬁcer, applicants

must pass the Foreign Service written exam, which

is offered every April. U.S. citizens aged 20 to 59 are

eligible to take the exam. Applicants who pass the

written exam move on to an oral assessment. Those

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 9

who pass the oral assessment undergo a

background investigation, a medical exam,

and a ﬁnal review for suitability. The names

of successful candidates are placed on a rank-

ordered register. Those who have proﬁciency

in a foreign language receive additional

points, which may raise their standing on the

to be proﬁcient in a foreign language, and

language training is provided prior to a foreign

assignment. As vacancies arise, those on the

workers can expect to attain tenure status

within 5 years.

Candidates must be willing to accept a posi-

tion anywhere in the world.

• U.S. Foreign Service specialists. Foreign Ser-

vice specialists support the work of U.S. embassies

and consulates but do not need to take the Foreign

Service written exam. These specialists include

healthcare practitioners and technicians, information

technology specialists, human resources personnel,

security personnel, and ofﬁce and facilities managers.

Like ofﬁcers, specialists must pass an oral assess-

ment, a background investigation, a medical exam,

and a ﬁnal review for suitability before their names

are placed on a register.

U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service. The USFCS

is an agency within the International Trade Administra-

tion of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The USFCS

promotes and protects U.S. businesses abroad. It helps

U.S. businesses to decide where to export their goods, to

develop export strategies, and to locate export ﬁnancing

and foreign business partners. The USFCS also develops

U.S. trade policy, negotiates trade pacts with other coun-

tries, and represents U.S. commercial interests during

international trade negotiations.

Internships with the USFCS are available in numer-

ous countries. Interns usually work in the commercial

section of U.S. embassies. These internships are similar

to State Department internships in their job duties, dura-

tion, and application requirements. However, applicants

for USFCS internships have usually studied economics or

business administration. They apply directly to the Com-

mercial Service ofﬁce located in a speciﬁc country.

The USFCS also employs Commercial Service Ofﬁ-

cers, although these positions require experience. Ofﬁcers

need at least 2 years of qualifying experience in devel

oping authoritative international market analyses, trade

promotion activities, or trade and marketing strategies

used by U.S. companies. Like State Department Foreign

Service ofﬁcers, Foreign Commercial Service ofﬁcers

must pass exams, an interview, a background check, and

a medical exam before being placed on a ranked register.

Ofﬁcers usually work in U.S. embassies and consulates

and rotate assignments every 2 to 4 years.

Teaching English as a foreign language

Teaching English abroad is one of the main avenues to

ﬁnding an international position. Demand for teachers is

strongest in the emerging markets of Asia, Latin America,

and Eastern Europe, but opportunities exist in most coun-

tries. Teaching positions exist in the elementary-school

through university levels and can be either part time or

full time.

Like instructors anywhere, English teachers work

ing abroad are responsible for developing lesson plans,

instructing multiple classes, and evaluating students.

Most positions have either semester or annual contracts.

Pay depends on experience, although the salary usually

covers little more than living expenses. Some employ-

ment programs might also provide a housing stipend and

end-of-contract airfare back to the United States.

For most jobs, a U.S. teaching license or teaching

experience is not usually required. Most positions also do

10 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

not require teachers to have knowledge of the local

language. In fact, most teachers study the local

language on their own while teaching English.

The minimum requirements often include

expert-level ﬂuency in English and a bachelor’s

degree in any subject. Positions in colleges and

universities might require a master’s degree in

teaching or linguistics.

Most employers also require completion of a

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

certiﬁcation prior to beginning the assignment.

Certiﬁcation courses educate participants on

the most effective methods of teaching English.

Courses often include practical teaching experi-

ence in classrooms. Courses are taught online

and in U.S. community colleges, universities, and

private language schools. The quality of certiﬁca-

tion programs can vary, so investigate any program

before you start. Some employers also accept or

require other foreign language teaching creden-

tials, such as Teaching of English to Speakers of

Other Languages (TESOL) certiﬁcates.

Some international employment programs

offer certiﬁcation courses to their participants and

include the cost in program fees. Programs also

frequently provide a 2- to 3-week orientation in the host

country to help participants assimilate into the country

and learn the basics of teaching.

English teaching positions abroad are available

with programs sponsored by foreign governments, with

nonproﬁt teaching organizations, and in private language

schools.

Government-sponsored programs. A few foreign

governments sponsor programs for citizens of English-

speaking countries to teach in their country. Participants

usually need some knowledge of the local language and

some interest in the host country. Compared with pro-

grams sponsored by nonproﬁts, government programs are

more competitive. Generally, there is no application or

program fee, and teaching contracts are for 1 year.

Nonproﬁt organizations. Numerous organizations

place teachers in positions abroad. These placements

usually do not require teachers to have previous experi-

ence. Positions are usually for a summer, for a semester,

or for a year. Some placement organizations are country-

speciﬁc; others place teachers in a variety of countries.

Many placement organizations charge program fees

to cover the cost of predeparture assistance, orientation

materials, and support from local contacts. Sometimes,

fees also cover airfare, housing, and health insurance.

Private language schools. One way to ﬁnd an

English teaching position abroad is to apply directly to

language schools. Schools often have recruiting ofﬁces in

the United States or use U.S.-based placement agencies

to ﬁll positions. Because requirements at private language

schools are rigorous, these schools prefer to hire people

who already have some experience teaching English.

Many job openings for teaching positions in private lan-

guage schools are advertised online.

Opportunities for licensed teachers

Opportunities abound for qualiﬁed teachers to work

abroad. Teaching positions abroad, and their qualiﬁca-

tion requirements, are similar to those for equivalent U.S.

teaching slots. To obtain these international teaching

positions, applicants usually need a valid U.S. teaching

license and several years of teaching experience. Teach-

ing contracts are usually full time and last 1 to 2 years.

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 11

Teachers of all subjects and grade levels can ﬁnd in-

ternational opportunities. The four main sources of inter-

national work for experienced teachers are the Fulbright

Teacher Exchange Program, nonproﬁt organizations,

private international schools, and the U.S. Department of

Defense schools.

Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program. This ex-

change program, administered by the U.S. Department of

State, allows a one-for-one exchange between an Ameri-

can and a foreign teacher. The two teachers are partnered

by subject area and level of instruction. They each teach

for 1 year in the partner’s school. Teachers also usually

swap housing or assist their partner in locating alternative

housing. The teachers’ home school districts continue to

pay their salary and beneﬁts.

The program is open to all educators—including

special education teachers, administrators, school coun-

selors, and librarians—who have at least 3 years of

teaching experience. However, opportunities in various

subjects are not always available in every participating

country. Every year, about 30 countries take part in the

exchange, with country participants changing every year.

Nonproﬁt organizations. Some nonproﬁt organiza-

tions recruit qualiﬁed teachers of all subjects and grade

levels for placement throughout the world. In addition,

some nonproﬁts recruit and place education adminis-

trators and university professors. Along with teaching

classes, participants may help develop a new curricu-

lum for the school or train local teachers in their

area of expertise.

Private international schools. These are

English-speaking schools that instruct the

children of diplomats, missionaries,

foreign-aid workers, businesspeople, and

other expatriates. Because there are Ameri-

can expatriates all over the world, oppor-

tunities to teach in these schools exist in

almost every country. Compensation usually

includes housing and moving expenses.

Competition for openings in these

schools can be intense. Most positions

require some international experience,

knowledge of a foreign language, and at

least 2 years of teaching experience. Job-

seekers often go through recruiting agen-

cies that place teachers in foreign countries.

These agencies usually screen applicants

and refer the best qualiﬁed ones to schools. Some in-

ternational schools recruit directly at U.S. job fairs for

teachers.

U.S. Department of Defense schools. The Depart-

ment of Defense Education Activity operates primary and

secondary schools for the dependents of military person-

nel stationed throughout the world. Currently, there are

schools in 13 countries and the U.S. territories of Guam

and Puerto Rico.

Most teachers receive housing on the military bases

or stipends for local accommodations. Because teach-

ers instruct American students on the bases, contact with

locals might be limited. Applicants for these jobs are not

usually required to have skill in a foreign language.

Agricultural exchange programs

For young adults interested in an agriculture career, a for-

eign agricultural exchange program can give perspective

on agricultural methods used in other countries. Programs

are available in numerous disciplines, including animal,

dairy, and crop farming; horticulture; turf management;

equine studies; and enology.

Typical duties of agricultural exchange participants

include planting and harvesting crops, operating machin-

ery, fertilizing crops, identifying and eradicating diseases

12 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

and pests, performing basic veterinary duties, training

and grooming animals, and marketing and selling farm

products.

Most agricultural exchange programs are in Austra-

lia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and Western Europe

and last from 4 months to a year or more. In some cases,

participants might be able to extend their experience

abroad by working in two countries. Participants usually

live with their host families on their farms or near the

vineyard, greenhouse, or orchard in which they work. If

participants do not live with the host family, they are pro-

vided an allowance for housing. Most participants also

receive a small stipend for their work and receive time off

for holidays.

For most programs, applicants must be between the

ages of 18 and 30 and have previous work experience in

agriculture.

A few nonproﬁt exchange programs arrange place-

ments, for a fee. These programs also arrange for work

visas, transportation, and orientation materials.

Au pair placement programs

Many young men and women choose

to work abroad as au pairs. Au pairs

work in private homes, providing

childcare and performing basic

housework. Most au pair oppor-

tunities are in Europe and South

America. Employment contracts

can last from a few months to a

few years.

Because au pairs live with a

host family and communicate mainly

in the local language, this is among the

best ways to become ﬂuent in another language.

Working as an au pair can also be a valuable

experience for those who plan to have a career in

childcare, teaching, counseling, or psychology.

Au pairs provide live-in childcare to their host

families and can be responsible for directing children’s

activities, taking them to and from school, assisting with

their homework, and teaching them English. Au pairs

usually perform household duties associated with the

children, such as cooking their meals and doing their

laundry.

In exchange, host families provide au pairs with

room and board and a small stipend to cover personal

expenses. Au pairs usually receive 1 or 2 days off per

week, in addition to national holidays.

Most au pairs must be between the ages of 18 and

30 to qualify for placement. Most also need experience

supervising children; this experience may come from

working as a babysitter, a sports coach, a lifeguard, or a

camp counselor. Some agencies also perform background

checks on applicants and require applicants to have an

international driver’s license.

Au pairs usually ﬁnd employment through a repu-

table placement agency. The International Au Pair As-

sociation accredits agencies that maintain strict screen-

ing processes for both au pairs and host families. These

agencies provide detailed work contracts that outline the

compensation, duration of the assignment, number of

work hours expected, and number of days off per week.

Reputable agencies also offer to place the au pair

with a new family if the ﬁrst placement does not work

out. Agencies will also arrange work visas, assist with

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 13

transportation, and provide orientation materials about

the host country. Most agencies charge a registration fee

for ﬁnding placements.

Experts caution against au pairs placing their own

advertisements or answering employment ads not placed

by reputable agencies. Without proper screening of fami-

lies, it can be difﬁcult to know the quality of the working

environment before you arrive. And once in the country,

it can be difﬁcult to ﬁnd other employment or to get out

of an undesirable situation.

International volunteer opportunities

Volunteer opportunities can provide useful work-related

skills, such as leadership. Many of these opportunities

are in developing nations throughout the world. Volun-

teering abroad provides especially useful experience for

future teachers, social workers, healthcare personnel, and

construction trade workers. Volunteer projects that relate

to a course of study may be awarded academic credit by

the student’s college or university.

Like other opportunities abroad, volunteering abroad

can also provide personal beneﬁts. Many of these pro-

grams are only a few weeks long, allowing participants

to gauge their willingness to stay abroad longer. Most

volunteer programs last a few weeks or months during

the summer. Others last for a semester, a year, or more

than a year.

Almost all volunteer programs include housing

and meals. But because many organizations operate on

limited budgets, some require international volunteers to

cover the costs of participating abroad.

Volunteers can participate in opportunities abroad

through agencies or groups such as the Peace Corps,

placement organizations, and those that arrange for par-

ticipation in projects on vacations or in work camps.

Peace Corps. Peace Corps volunteers spend 2 years

abroad in a developing country. Most work in the areas

of healthcare, education, and business. (Detailed infor-

mation about the Peace Corps is available in a fall 2000

Quarterly article, “Job Corps, AmeriCorps, and Peace

Corps: An overview,” online at www.bls.gov/opub/

ooq/2000/Fall/art03.pdf.)

Volunteer placement organizations. These organiza-

tions arrange personalized volunteer placements based on

the volunteers’ interests and levels of experience.

Volunteer vacations. These vacations combine

volunteer projects with sightseeing excursions. Vacations

vary in both duration and the amount of time spent volun-

teering. Several of the world’s largest nonproﬁt organi-

zations allow volunteers to participate in international

projects.

Work camps. These camps consist of between 15 and

20 volunteers, mostly students, who work primarily dur-

ing the summer on construction or social-work projects.

Some work camps are established through religious-

based organizations.

Finding—and landing—far-off jobs

A formal application is required for most of the positions

described in this article. For student internships and vol-

unteer programs, this application is often like a college

one. Students might be required to submit transcripts,

essays, recommendations, an application fee, and a

resume or its foreign equivalent, the curriculum vitae.

Finding your own work, rather than applying to a

program, can add extra adventure to a trip abroad. But it

takes cultural savvy to locate openings, write job applica-

tions, and interview for positions in another country.

Searching for jobs on your own

As mentioned previously, you will need a visa before

starting work abroad. Where available, temporary student

work visas allow you to accept paid work during a speci-

ﬁed time. Or speciﬁc employers can apply for a visa for

you, if you arrange for that beforehand.

Finding your own internship allows you to focus on

industries and employers of your choice, which could be

rewarding for your future career. However, ﬁnding your

own employment can be time consuming.

Starting the job search before you go abroad, instead

of waiting until you are there, has several beneﬁts. For

one thing, the search can be more focused and thorough.

For another, you will be able to spend more time actually

working when you arrive in your host country. And wait-

ing until landing abroad to ﬁnd a job can drain your bank

account as you live off savings until securing your ﬁrst

job—and that ﬁrst paycheck.

Some aspects of ﬁnding a job abroad are similar

to ﬁnding one in the United States. Begin by locating

interesting positions; then, apply. Locate open positions

using some or all of the following sources: employment

agencies, networking, and online job postings.

Employment agencies. Employment agencies are a

good source of job openings because most of them have

14 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

connections to employers. In some countries, agencies

are the main portal to ﬁnding employment, especially for

entry-level positions.

Some agencies specialize in particular industries or

skill levels; others place workers in a variety of positions.

Agencies try to match employees with potential employ-

ers based on the participant’s job interests, skills, and

education.

Chris Young discovered the beneﬁts of using an

employment agency when he was looking for jobs in

London. He posted his resume on some U.K. job sites

but did not get any replies. But then, some local employ-

ment agencies located his resume online and contacted

him about their services. “Once I found out that agencies

were the main way people found jobs, I registered with

three agencies,” he says, “and within a week, I had two

interviews.” Young had one or two interviews each week

for about 2 months before accepting a position.

Most employment agencies have Web sites. Many

also list their services in local newspapers and in online

resume banks. Registering with multiple agencies might

increase your chances of ﬁnding a job.

The agency should work hard to ﬁnd you a suitable

position. At a minimum, an agency representative should

remember your name and career objectives every time

you interact with him or her. If the agency does not meet

your expectations, do not hesitate to ﬁnd another one.

Some agencies might charge a placement fee for their

services.

Networking. In addition to family members

and friends who might have international con-

nections, your college’s study abroad ofﬁce

might have lists of open positions or of

alumni and former interns who could

put you in touch with potential em-

ployers. Professors also might have

connections abroad.

After you arrive in your host

country, you will discover that many

large cities have networking groups

for Americans. If you share an apart-

ment with local residents, you may

also be able to ask them to provide

job leads. The ofﬁces for most visa

programs also provide employment

listings.

Online job postings. Many international newspapers

provide online job listings in their city. Most online job

banks also include international job listings.

Writing a curriculum vitae

If you are applying for international jobs, you may need

to submit a curriculum vitae (CV) instead of a resume. A

CV is similar to a resume in that it outlines your profes-

sional qualiﬁcations and history, but it does so with more

detail. You can turn an updated resume into a CV by add-

ing some information and expanding the descriptions of

your educational and professional experiences.

Generally, entry-level resumes are one page or less

in length; CVs are usually two pages. A CV begins with

a list of your contact information, followed by a personal

information section, which usually includes your date

and place of birth, country of citizenship, visa status, sex,

marital status, and number of dependents. Also included

in a CV is a section on personal activities and interests,

information that usually is not included on a U.S. resume

unless it speciﬁcally relates to your career.

CVs also include a personal introduction section

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 15

summarizing key skills and expe-

riences related to the job. When

applying for jobs prior to depar-

ture abroad, be sure to mention

the work visa you will hold;

also, tell employers the date you

will arrive and the date you will

be able to begin work.

The next two sections of

a CV describe education and

job experience. The job experi-

ence section usually lists each job’s

employer, key projects, and outcomes.

CVs show this information in para-

graph format, which differs from the

bulleted points on a resume that highlight

responsibilities and outcomes.

CVs also should include sections for your

honors, awards, and achievements; research,

publications, and presentations; and technical and lan-

guage skills, along with levels of proﬁciency. Although

a resume might include some of this information if it is

related to the job, a CV includes details for each of your

awards, publications, and projects. Also, CVs usually list

your references and their contact information.

In some countries, preferences determine which

information is included in which order on the CV, so

research your prospective host country’s preferences in

one of the many published guides available. Some em-

ployers might also ask you to translate your CV into the

local language.

Finally, most employers expect a CV to be accom-

panied by a cover letter, commonly referred to outside

the United States as a “letter of interest” or a “motivation

letter.” The information in these letters is similar to what

you would send a U.S. employer in a cover letter.

Interviewing

As with most jobs, you will usually need to interview for

the international positions you seek. Depending on the

country and type of job, the interview might be conduct-

ed in the local language.

Prepare for the interview just as you would for an

interview in the United States: Research the organization,

know your strengths, and express why you want the job.

Arrive on time and dress professionally for all interviews,

even for service-related positions, such as those in restau-

rants. It is also advisable to have on hand written refer-

ences from former bosses, coworkers, or professors that

positively attest to your qualiﬁcations and work ethic.

On other matters of etiquette, some common U.S.

interview practices are not followed in other countries.

For example, directly looking your interviewer in the eye

or following up with a telephone call or a thank-you note

might be seen as too aggressive in some cultures. Before

interviewing for any jobs in another country, research the

prospective host country’s cultural and business practices

so you can make a good ﬁrst impression. Books and on-

line guides about cultural differences can help.

Next steps

After you ﬁnd a job, you will need to consider the prac-

ticalities of preparing for a trip abroad and of ﬁnding a

way to pay for it.

Getting ready to go

When you accept an organization’s work placement,

you usually need to pay part or all of the program fee

to hold your place in the program. Program fees vary

by organization. But before you send a check, be sure

to thoroughly research the organization’s cancellation

and refund policies in case you are unable to participate.

Some organizations return the entire fee; others offer

partial refunds. The refund amount might decline as

your departure date draws nearer.

If you are arranging your own ﬂight, make sure your

visa has been issued before purchasing a plane ticket in

order to avoid ﬂight cancellation or change fees.

Most programs also require proof of health insur-

ance that includes coverage for medical evacuation to

the United States, if necessary. If you do not have suit-

able insurance, the program may require you to purchase

its policy before going abroad.

Vaccinations may be required before you go abroad,

especially if you are going to a developing country.

Vaccines usually are administered 4 to 6 weeks before

departure.

If housing is not provided, it is a good idea to arrange

a place to stay for at least the ﬁrst few nights before you

depart. This will ensure you have a roof over your head

while you acclimate to your new surroundings and look

for a permanent residence.

Finding the funds

Working abroad can be an expensive venture, even if you

ﬁnd a paying job. Most programs advise that you choose

to go abroad for the experience, rather than for earning

money to save. Salaries for entry-level workers are often

just enough to cover living expenses.

In many countries, employers usually pay salaries

only once a month, so you need to plan ahead. A rule of

thumb is to make sure you have enough money to cover

your living expenses for several months.

As part of your preparations for going abroad,

research the cost of living in the places that interest you.

Then, save accordingly. Most programs give you an

estimate of how much money you should take with you.

Some programs even require that you take a minimum

amount to cover expenses. For example, the British Uni-

versities of North America work-visa program requires

participants to bring a minimum of $2,000 to work in the

United Kingdom.

Some programs require participants to pay fees of

several thousand dollars. What these fees cover varies by

program. A portion of the program fees paid to nonproﬁt

organizations is tax deductible.

If you are participating in an internship that is part

of a study abroad program, you might be able to apply

scholarships and ﬁnancial aid toward your experience.

Check with your school’s ﬁnancial aid ofﬁce for eligibil-

ity rules.

Other sources of scholarship or alternative funding

may be available. For example, community and religious

organizations might provide scholarships or grants to

students going abroad. Some of these funds are targeted

toward students studying a particular subject or language

or in a particular country. Local chambers of commerce

often list organizations that offer funding.

Finally, for those interested in teaching or volunteer-

ing abroad, especially in developing nations, fundraising

may be a viable option. People might contribute toward

your participation fees if they believe you will provide a

needed service.

16 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 17

Would they work abroad again?

The best source of advice on what it’s really like to work

abroad is other Americans who have done it. Consider

contacting former participants in your chosen program to

learn about their experiences and to garner advice. The

majority will probably tell you that they would do it all

over again, if given the opportunity. They might tell you

that their experiences were not what they expected but

that they returned to the United States better prepared for

their future.

Keeping an open mind is important, as is learning

to adapt to a new culture. Most people who have been

abroad agree that the experience increased their conﬁ-

dence in their ability to overcome adversity.

Most also agree that integrating yourself into an-

other culture is personally rewarding. Green says that

during her internship, she felt she was living the life of

a Spaniard—and got an ego boost when locals thought

she was Spanish. “I picked up the local accent and col-

loquialisms,” she says, “and most people I talked to were

surprised when I told them I’m American. They thought I

grew up there, and there’s no better feeling than that!”

Living in another culture can also make you aware

of your misconceptions. Being a foreigner in Japan is

sometimes difﬁcult for Hills, who says that being an

outsider becomes your identity whether you like it or not.

“Everything is more difﬁcult in a foreign language,” he

says. “Whenever I go out, there are usually two to three

people staring at me because I am different.” Because of

his experiences, Hills has resolved to be more patient and

sympathetic to foreigners he meets in the United States.

Going abroad also allows you to build lifelong rela-

tionships with the people you meet. Patricia Tate taught

at an elementary school in Ghana while conducting

research for her master’s thesis. She still keeps in touch

with her students and is organizing a drive to send books

to her former students. “After being overseas, I appreciate

what we have in the United States a lot more,” she says.

“I feel that I am able to give something back by helping

the children in Ghana. I would not have traded this expe-

rience for anything in the world.”

For more information

Many Internet and library resources have information

about how to ﬁnd international internships, scholarships,

and ﬁnancial aid; how to write CVs and cover letters; and

how to conduct business in various cultures.

In addition to the programs listed in the directory

on pages 19-23, the following organizations can provide

information on where to ﬁnd jobs, internships, and volun-

teer programs.

An online resource—including a list of available

opportunities—provides information on interning or vol-

unteering with international nonproﬁt organizations and

is available from:

Action Without Borders

360 W. 31st St., Suite 1510

New York, NY 10001

(212) 843-3973

www.idealist.org

For a list of study abroad programs that offer intern

ships, contact:

Institute of International Education

IIEPassport Study Abroad Directories

1350 Edgmont Ave., Suite 1100

Chester, PA 19013

Toll-free: 1 (877) 4040-EDU (404-0338)

www.iiepassport.org

www.studyabroad.com/internabroad

For a list of international au pair agencies, contact:

International Au Pair Association

Bredgade 25H

1260 Copenhagen K

Denmark

(45) 3317 0066

www.iapa.org

For a list of international volunteer opportunities,

contact:

Foundation for Sustainable Development

870 Market St., Suite 321

San Francisco, CA 94102

(415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

For information about international volunteer and

work opportunities for people with disabilities, contact:

Mobility International USA

132 East Broadway, Suite 343

Eugene, OR 97401

(541) 343-1284 (Tel/TTY)

www.miusa.org

18 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

For information about international jobs with the

Federal Government, use the Ofﬁce of Personnel Manage-

ment’s employment information system, USAJOBS. Call

the automated telephone system at (703) 724-1850,

TDD (978) 461-8404. These numbers are not toll-free.

You may also visit online at www.usajobs.opm.gov.

For information about opportunities with the Peace

Corps, contact:

Peace Corps

Paul D. Coverdell Peace Corps Headquarters

1111 20th St. NW.

Washington, DC 20526

Toll-free: 1 (800) 424-8580

www.peacecorps.gov

For information about teaching English as a second

language and related training programs, contact:

Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages,

Inc.

700 S. Washington St., Suite 200

Alexandria, VA 22314

Toll-free: 1 (888) 547-3369

www.tesol.org

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 19

Organization Geographic area

Foreign

language

proﬁciency

required?

Paid

positions

available?

Application

and

program

fees

Program description

Private-sector internships and other short-term work

Internship placement organizations

American-Scandinavian Foundation

Scandinavia House

58 Park Ave.

New York, NY 10016

(212) 879-9779

www.amscan.org/training.html

Denmark,

Finland, Iceland,

Norway, Sweden

No Yes $

Open positions are listed on the Web

site. Program also arranges work

visas for students who have arranged

internships.

CDS International

871 United Nations Plaza

New York, NY 10017

(212) 497-3500

www.cdsintl.org

Argentina,

Germany,

Russia, Spain,

Switzerland Yes Yes $$ to $$$

Operates several internship placement

programs and fellowships. Also provides

temporary work visas for participants

who have arranged internships in

Germany and Switzerland.

Cross-Cultural Solutions

2 Clinton Pl.

New Rochelle, NY 10801

Toll-free: 1 (800) 380-4777

www.crossculturalsolutions.org

Brazil, China,

Costa Rica,

Ghana,

Guatemala,

India, Peru,

Russia, Tanzania,

Thailand No No $$$$

Internships in healthcare, education,

and social services are available for

academic credit.

Foundation for Sustainable

Development

870 Market St., Suite 321

San Francisco, CA 94102

(415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

Argentina,

Bolivia, Ecuador,

India, Kenya,

Nicaragua, Peru,

Uganda Varies No $$$$

Nonproﬁt internships available in

community and economic development,

education, environment, health, and

human rights.

InterExchange

161 Sixth Ave.

New York, NY 10013

(212) 924-0446

www.interexchange.org

Costa Rica,

France, Great

Britain Yes No $$$$

Arranges internships for students based

on the participant’s experience.

International Association for the

Exchange of Students for

Technical Experience

10400 Little Patuxent Parkway

Suite 250

Columbia, MD 21044

(410) 997-3069

www.iaesteunitedstates.org

80 countries No Yes $$ to $$$

Arranges internships in architecture,

computer science, engineering, and

the natural and physical sciences. Also

arranges work visas for students who

have prearranged internships in any

ﬁeld of study.

International Association of

Students in Economics and

Business (AIESEC)

127 W. 26th St., 10th Floor

New York, NY 10001

(212) 757-3774

www.aiesecus.org

90 countries Varies Yes $$$

Arranges internships in business,

engineering, and IT; also arranges

work visas for AIESEC members.

Directory of international

exchange programs

The following table lists many nonproﬁt and government

work abroad programs. This list does not contain infor-

mation for programs from private companies or religious

organizations or for programs that have a duration time

of less than 3 months.

Before applying to any program, be sure to thoroughly

research the organization and contact former participants.

Also contact the Better Business Bureau to ﬁnd out if

there have been formal complaints made against the

organization.

20 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

Organization Geographic area

Foreign

language

proﬁciency

required?

Paid

positions

available?

Application

and

program

fees

Program description

International Foundation for

Education & Self-Help

International Fellows Program

5040 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 260

Scottsdale, AZ 85254-4687

(480) 443-1800

www.ifesh.org

Sub-Saharan

Africa Varies Yes $

Places recent college graduates and

graduate students in internships with

international development organizations.

Internships International

P.O. Box 480

23 Reed Rd.

Woolwich, ME 04579

(207) 442-7942

www.internshipsinternational.org

17 countries Varies No $$$$

Arranges internships for college seniors

and recent graduates in most areas of

study, including pre-medicine.

JET Program

Coordinators of International

Relations

Embassy of Japan

JET Program Ofﬁce

2520 Massachusetts Ave. NW.

Washington, DC 20008

(202) 238-6772 ext. 6773

www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/

JETProgram/homepage.html Japan Yes Yes $

Participants work with local Japanese

organizations involved in international

exchange activities. Might include some

English teaching.

Princeton in Asia

Bobst Center for Peace and Justice

83 Prospect Ave., Room 202

Princeton, NJ 08544

(609) 258-9318

www.princeton.edu/~pia

15 countries in

Asia No Yes $$

Fellowships in education, journalism,

nongovernment organizations, and

business. Immersion experiences

available.

Student work-visa programs

Association for International

Practical Training

Americans Abroad Program

10400 Little Patuxent Parkway

Suite 250

Columbia, MD 21044

(410) 997-2200

www.aipt.org

France,

Switzerland Yes Yes $$

Arranges work visas for students who

have internships set up.

British Universities North America

Club

P.O. Box 430

Southbury, CT 06488

Toll-free: 1 (800) GO-BUNAC

(462-8622)

www.bunac.org

Australia,

Canada, Ireland,

New Zealand,

United Kingdom No Yes $$ to $$$

Arranges work visas for students.

Participants do not have to prearrange

job or internship before departure.

French-American Chamber of

Commerce

122 E. 42nd St., Suite 2015

New York, NY 10168

(212) 867-3603

www.faccnyc.org France Yes Yes $$

Arranges 3- to 18-month work visas for

Americans with prearranged internships.

U.S. Government foreign affairs positions

U.S. Agency for International

Development

Ofﬁce of Human Resources

Personnel Operations Division

Room 208 Ronald Reagan Bldg.

Washington, DC 20523-2808

www.usaid.gov/careers Worldwide Yes Yes $

Foreign service opportunities exist for

entry-level candidates and professionals

with previous technical experience.

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 21

Organization Geographic area

Foreign

language

proﬁciency

required?

Paid

positions

available?

Application

and

program

fees

Program description

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Foreign Agricultural Service

1400 Independence Ave. SW.

Washington, DC 20250

www.fas.usda.gov/admin/

newjobs/newjobs.html Worldwide Yes Yes

College seniors or graduate students

can intern abroad. Permanent

employees may also apply for foreign

service after 18 months of full-time

employment.

U.S. Department of Commerce

U.S. Commercial Service

1401 Constitution Ave. NW.

Washington, DC 20230

http://export.gov/comm_svc/

employment/employment_

main.html Worldwide Yes Yes $

Students can intern in the commercial

sections of U.S. embassies. Permanent

opportunities also exist for those who

pass written and oral exams.

U.S. Department of State

HR/REE/REC

2401 E St. NW., Suite 518 H

Washington, DC 20522

www.careers.state.gov Worldwide Yes Yes

Student internships available in U.S.

embassies abroad. Permanent foreign

service ofﬁcer and specialist positions

available.

Teaching English as a foreign language

Government-sponsored programs

Cultural Services of the French

Embassy of the U.S. English

Teaching Assistant Program

4101 Reservoir Rd.

Washington, DC 20007

www.frenchculture.org/education

France Yes Yes

Participants teach 12 hours of English

per week in primary and secondary

schools throughout the country.

English Program in Korea

Center for In-Service Education

Korea National University of

Education

Cheongwon, Chungbuk, 363-791,

South Korea

(82) 43-233-4516

http://epik.knue.ac.kr South Korea No Yes $

Participants teach English to Korean

teachers and students in schools and

training centers.

JET Program

Assistant Language Teacher

Embassy of Japan

JET Program Ofﬁce

2520 Massachusetts Ave. NW.

Washington, DC 20008

(202) 238-6772 ext. 6773

www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/

JETProgram/homepage.html Japan No Yes $

Assistant teachers help teach English in

public elementary and primary schools

and participate in local international

exchange activities.

Nonproﬁt organizations

American-Scandinavian Foundation

Scandinavia House

58 Park Ave.

New York, NY 10016

(212) 879- 9779

www.amscan.org/training.html

Finland No Yes $

Recent graduates and college students

majoring in education or TEFL teach

English in grade schools and colleges.

Appalachians Abroad Teach in

China

Center for International Programs

One John Marshall Dr.

Huntington, WV 25755

(304) 696-6265

www.marshall.edu/gochina

China No Yes $$$$

Participants teach English to students in

grades 1 through 12 or in universities.

Participants may also teach subject

areas in science and liberal arts if

teaching at international schools.

22 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006

Organization Geographic area

Foreign

language

proﬁciency

required?

Paid

positions

available?

Application

and

program

fees

Program description

Colorado China Council

4556 Apple Way

Boulder, CO 80301

(303) 443-1108

www.asiacouncil.org

China No Yes $$$$

Participants teach English at

universities. Some participants also

teach literature, history, business,

economics, or law.

Council on International Exchange

7 Custom House St., 3rd Floor

Portland, ME 04101

Toll-free: 1 (800) 407-8839

www.ciee.org/teach.aspx

Chile, China,

Spain, Thailand Varies Yes $$$$

Participants teach between 16 and

22 English classes per week in grade

schools and some universities.

Princeton in Asia

Bobst Center for Peace and Justice

83 Prospect Ave., Room 202

Princeton, NJ 08544

(609) 258-9318

www.princeton.edu/~pia

15 countries in

Asia No Yes $$

Teaching fellowships available at all

levels. Some countries offer teaching

positions in subjects other than English.

WorldTeach

c/o Center for International

Development

Harvard University

79 John F. Kennedy St.

Cambridge, MA 02138

Toll-free: 1 (800) 483-2240

www.worldteach.org

Chile, China,

Costa Rica,

Ecuador,

Guyana, Marshall

Islands, Namibia,

Pohnpei, Poland,

South Africa

No No $$$$

Participants teach English in local

schools in developing countries. Some

participants might also teach math,

science, computer skills, or health

awareness.

Opportunities for licensed teachers

Fulbright teaching programs

Austrian-American Educational

Commission

Fulbright Commission

Schmidgasse 14

A-1080, Vienna, Austria

(43) 1 313 39 ext. 5685

www.fulbright.at/us_citizens/

teaching_intro.php Austria Yes Yes $$

Participants help English teachers for 12

hours per week in secondary schools.

Fulbright Teacher Exchange

Program

600 Maryland Ave. SW., Suite 320

Washington, DC 20024

(202) 314-3527

www.fulbrightexchanges.org

30 countries Varies Yes $

Full-time teachers and administrators

participate in a one-for-one exchange

with teachers or administrators in a

foreign country. The levels and subjects

taught depend on the needs of speciﬁc

countries.

Nonproﬁt organizations

Global Student Teaching

English Language Teaching

Assistant Program

225 Community Services Bldg.

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN 56267

(320) 589-6406

www.globalst.org

48 countries No No $$$$

Arranges teaching assistantships in

international schools for U.S. students

majoring in education. Course credit

may be obtained.

The International Foundation for

Education & Self-Help Teachers

for Africa

5040 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 260

Scottsdale, AZ 85254-4687

(480) 443-1800

www.ifesh.org

Sub-Saharan

Africa Varies Yes $

Places accredited teachers,

administrators, and college

professors in sub-Saharan

African schools.

Fall 2006 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly 23

Organization Geographic area

Foreign

language

proﬁciency

required?

Paid

positions

available?

Application

and

program

fees

Program description

Private international schools

International Schools Service

15 Roszel Rd., P.O. Box 5910

Princeton, NJ 08543

(609) 452-0990

www.iss.edu Worldwide

No Yes $$

Maintains a database of candidates

and sponsors several recruitment fairs

annually for teachers wishing to work in

an American international school.

U.S. Department of Defense

Department of Defense Education

Activity

4040 N. Fairfax Dr.

Arlington, VA 22203

(703) 588-3983

www.dodea.edu

13 countries No Yes $

Hires elementary and secondary school

teachers on military bases. Also offers

unpaid jobs for student teachers.

Agricultural exchange programs

Communicating for Agriculture

Exchange Program

112 E. Lincoln Ave.

P.O. Box 677

Fergus Falls, MN 56538

Toll-free: 1 (800) 432-3276

www.caepinc.com

Australia,

Canada,

New Zealand,

Western Europe No Yes

Participants with prior experience can

work in agriculture, enology, equine

care, horticulture, and turf management.

Experience International

P.O. Box 680

Everson, WA 98247

(360) 966-3876

www.expint.org

35 countries Varies Yes $$

Participants with prior experience can

work in agriculture, ﬁsheries, forestry,

horticulture, and natural resources

management.

International Agricultural Exchange

Association

Agriventure Program

#105, 7710-5 St. SE.

Calgary, Alberta

T2H 2L9

Canada

(403) 255-7799

www.agriventure.com

Australia,

Canada,

Denmark,

Germany, Japan,

Netherlands,

New Zealand,

Norway, Sweden

Yes

Participants with prior experience can

work in agriculture, horticulture, or home

management.

Au pair placement programs

InterExchange

161 Sixth Ave.

New York, NY 10013

(212) 924-0446

www.interexchange.org

France,

Germany,

Netherlands,

Norway, Spain Varies Yes

$$ to $$$

Arranges placements and is a member

of the International Au Pair Association.

Fee ranges are as follows: $ ($0 to $99), $$ ($100 to $499),

$$$ ($500 to $999), and $$$$ ($1,000 or higher).

Information not available. Contact the organization for details.