Internships in Singapore

Singapore is a global hub for business, finance, innovation, and education, offering a range of paid and unpaid internships in various fields and sectors. With a strong economy, high-quality education system, and English being one of the country’s official languages, Singapore is a great way for international students and candidates to gain experience and expand their professional network.

Singapore’s fast-paced economy offers a broad range of opportunities for interns in a variety of fields. Here are some of the most popular types of internships in Singapore:

Banking and finance

Singapore is the ideal destination for paid finance internships, with a thriving industry of international banks, wealth management firms, and other financial institutions.

Electronics

With its reputation for producing high-quality and reliable electronics, Singapore is a prime location for manufacturing, research, and development (R&D), and distribution internships. In addition, companies like STMicroelectronics, Murata Manufacturing Co., and Venturing Corporation have their headquarters in Singapore, making it an exciting destination for paid internships in this field, including part-time opportunities.

Biomedical sciences

Singapore's thriving biomedical sciences sector provides various opportunities for internships in research, product development, manufacturing, and healthcare services. With major players like GlaxoSmithKline, Aventis, Pfizer, and Baxter Inc. operating in Singapore, paid internships in this field, including part-time opportunities, are abundant.

Tourism and hospitality

Singapore's tourism industry is renowned for its famous attractions, such as the Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, and the Merlion. Interns seeking paid opportunities in the service sector can find many options in Singapore's booming tourism industry, including business, medical, and retail tourism, with Absolute Internship offering internships in over 25 industries in Singapore, including part-time opportunities in the hospitality and tourism fields.

Media and entertainment

Singapore's media and entertainment industry is flourishing, as evidenced by major international players present in the country, like BBC, CNBC Asia, and Disney. For anyone interested in gaining international media experience, paid internships in Singapore's vibrant media industry, including part-time opportunities, are an excellent starting point.

When it comes to finding the best city to intern in Singapore, there are several factors to consider, such as location, industry, and cultural opportunities. In this section, we will explore the top cities for internships in Singapore, highlighting their unique features and what makes them excellent destinations for interns seeking internships.

Singapore City

As the capital of Singapore, Singapore City offers a diverse range of internships in various industries, including finance, technology, and hospitality. With a bustling city center, interns can immerse themselves in exciting cultural activities while utilizing the many networking opportunities available. In addition, companies like Visa, Dell, and PwC offer paid internships in Singapore City.

Jurong West

Known for its thriving business district, Jurong West offers many opportunities for interns in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Interns can also explore the beautiful parks and gardens in their free time, making it an excellent location for a part-time internship in Singapore.

Tampines

Located in the East Region of Singapore, Tampines is a fast-developing area with many opportunities for retail, logistics, and information technology interns. With a dynamic local food scene and plenty of shopping malls, interns can enjoy Singaporean culture while working there.

Woodlands

Situated in the north of Singapore, Woodlands offers manufacturing, engineering, and healthcare internships. The area is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy for interns to explore other parts of the local area. Paid internships in Woodlands are available in companies like Infineon and ST Engineering.

Bukit Timah

Bukit Timah is home to some top schools and universities, making it an excellent location for internships in education, research, and development. With a mix of residential areas and commercial spaces, Bukit Timah offers interns a peaceful environment to work and study. In addition, companies like A*STAR and Singapore Management University offer internships in Bukit Timah.

One of the easiest ways to get an internship in Singapore is to apply through a third-party internship program that will match you with companies that are aligned with your skills and interests. Included in the cost, these programs also offer additional support throughout your internship experience, such as housing and assistance while you’re abroad.

Another way to find internships in Singapore is through job boards such as the GO Job Board. You can filter your search to find internships that fit your criteria, such as part-time internships in Singapore or internships in specific industries or locations. Read the job descriptions carefully and apply to the ones that interest you the most.

While requirements may differ depending on the country, industry, and so on, these are generally the steps you’ll need to follow to land an internship in Singapore.

1. Meet the basic requirements: To be eligible for an internship in Singapore, you must be enrolled in a university or have recently graduated, have a good academic record, and meet the language requirements.
2. Prepare your application materials: such as your resume (CV), cover letter, portfolio, and/or personal statement of purpose.
3. Submit any necessary documents or paperwork: This can include academic transcripts from your home university and letters of recommendation.
4. Prepare for the interview: This may be conducted in person or remotely via video call
5. Apply for a visa: Apply for a Training Employment Pass (TEP) visa, which is required for all foreign students who wish to intern in Singapore.

Work culture & office etiquette

Singapore has a unique work culture that may take some adjustment for interns coming from different parts of the world. The country values punctuality, respect for authority, and a strong work ethic. Learn about Singapore’s work culture and office etiquette before starting your internship:

• Singaporeans tend to be reserved and polite, so interns should aim to be respectful and professional in all their interactions.
• Dress appropriately for the office; conservative dress is usually expected.
• Punctuality is important in Singapore, so make sure you arrive on time or early to meetings and appointments.
• Try to learn some basic phrases in the local languages, such as Malay, Mandarin, or Tamil.
• 14% of the population of Singapore is Muslim. As a result, one should be respectful in regard to contact with the opposite sex and consume non-halal products (pork, alcohol, etc.) in front of co-workers.

Language

Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. However, English is regarded as the primary language in Singapore and will be used in most formal work and business settings.