The vast majority of international internships are unpaid. However, if you plan your internship well in advance and follow some of these money saving tips, you will find that in many cases an international internship is much more cost effective than staying in DC for a term! But make sure you give yourself plenty of time as the best money saving strategies require advanced planning. Here are some great ways to save/earn money:

Pick a less expensive destination. Interning in London, Paris or Tokyo may sound great, but housing and food cost a small fortune. A less well-known destination may offer a better quality internship with considerably cheaper room and board. Meet your International Internship Advisor to find out about some of these great opportunities.

Fly for free by using either your own or a family member’s frequent flyer points. Airlines only allow a limited number of frequent flyer seats per flight, so book early.

Arrange your internship for “low season” (typically fall or spring) when airfare and accommodation is cheaper.

Dining out is expensive. Asking co-workers about inexpensive local supermarketsis a great way to make friends and save money while absorbing local culture.

Before departing on your travels get an International Student Card which allows you to take advantage of many special discounts. Council Travel provides ISIC cards for $22. Visit them online

Scholarships and Merit Awards have helped many students achieve their dream of interning overseas. The Career Center has an Office of Merit Awards which helps prepare American University students to compete for nationally competitive, merit-based scholarships and awards. These awards are highly competitive and require a great deal of planning and dedication on the part of the individual applying. Come in and browse through the Awards & Fellowships section of the AU Career Center Library or visit the Office of Merit Awards online.

Fundraising Activities can be extremely valuable in your quest for cash! Innovative fundraising strategies can often yield excellent results. The trick is to be creative, believe in your goal and have a good sales pitch. However, before undertaking such projects be sure to fully consider all the legal, financial and safety implications of your venture. Here are some ideas that have worked in the past:

• A letter to 20 family and friends outlining an international internship project and asking for support raised over $2000 for one student.
• A charity auction netted another student over $600 for their cause.
• T-Shirt sales, bake sales and benefit concerts have also helped students raise much needed funds.
• Other students have partnered with their local chamber of commerce and marketed their internship as a “Goodwill Mission” to gain support and funds.