aerial view of cape town south africa coast
Cape Town, South Africa

Summer Global Internship

Study Program Full-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

8 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 semester hours

9 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Have you ever imagined gaining work experience in one of the world's most beautiful yet economically and socially divided global cities? Look no further than the proud, diverse, and major commercial center of South Africa: Cape Town! Cape Town's emerging global economy faces many challenges, including its power supply, labor force, and inequality. Despite its challenges, this incredible South African port city regularly ranks as one of the top tourist destinations in the world, with stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and fantastic wildlife within its city limits.

Following our personalized placement process, CIEE Cape Town staff will work with you directly to connect you with the right opportunity. From entrepreneurship to education, you will gain real-world work experience that suits your unique academic needs and professional goals. When you're not working and learning, you'll have time to explore Cape Town's memorable scenery, watersports, and nightlife in this multilingual, multicultural, student-friendly environment. Cape Town's complexity, diversity, and natural beauty will make an exceptional backdrop for your unforgettable global internship!

Unique Experiences

TAKE A CABLE CAR

to the top of Table Mountain, a flat topped mountain offering gorgeous views of the city and the South Atlantic Ocean.

SPEND YOUR SUMMER INTERNING

in a location recently named the most entrepreneurial city in South Africa.

FOLLOW THE LEAD OF LOCALS

and take advantage of Cape Town’s lush outdoors: hike, mountain bike, surf and swim.

3,000

MARINE CREATURES AT THE TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM

29K

STUDENTS AT UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN

35K

CYCLISTS PARTICIPATE IN THE CAPE TOWN CYCLE TOUR

Experience
  • cape town students pose with south africa sign ocean
  • students abroad cape town cooking class

Your Destination

Against the backdrop of the towering Table Mountain, people from different backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities call Cape Town home. The city serves as a commercial and industrial entry point to Africa and houses regional headquarters for many companies, nonprofits, and NGOs.  Cape Town is Africa’s most popular destination for many reasons, starting with its glorious climate and natural attractions – from Table Mountain to stunning beaches. Situated on the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town is a vibrant multicultural city with a rich selection of day and night activities. The city is also a microcosm of the challenges facing many African countries in transition – how to successfully operate within a global economy while grappling with the vast socioeconomic inequalities that are the legacy of the colonial and apartheid past. 

Cape Town’s Mediterranean climate means the months from May to July bring cool days and some rain.  Daily high temperatures are around 64° F, rarely falling below 57° F or exceeding 72° F. This program operates during the "secret season,” Cape Town’s winter. 

Learn more about Cape Town and see past internship examples »

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Cape Town.

The Culture

botanical gardens abroad cape town

OTHER EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES

  • Visit the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, built on top of the docks at the Port of Cape Town. It is the city's most visited tourist attraction, and a popular shopping venue. 
  • Walk through the beautiful Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, a famous botanical garden nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain.  
  • Join a local family for Sunday lunch. Understand more about South Africa’s past on a trip to Robben Island.
  • Learn about the ‘Economics of wine’ while visiting South Africa’s oldest wine farm.
cape town ciee students networking event

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

  • Learn resume writing best practices and gain interview skills based on local business culture 
  • Explore the professional world of Cape Town through site visits and guest lectures 
  • Participate in classes and workshops that will help you make the most of your internship

Program Blogs

From CIEE

The Cape Seal of Approval

By Cape Town Centre at CIEE

Authored by Kai Edem (she/her) (Kai is a second-year undergraduate student at Agnes Scott College, majoring in Neuroscience. She is excited to discover more about research opportunities available during her... keep reading

From CIEE

Interning in a Township: Prepare to Be Unprepared

By Cape Town Centre at CIEE

Authored by Destiny Daniel (she/her) (Destiny is a senior at Howard University studying Communications and Maternal & Child Health. She loves to watch reality TV and explore her creativity. She... keep reading

From CIEE

Deconstructing the Term "Township"

By Cape Town Centre at CIEE

Authored by Jordyn Hoff (she/her) (Jordyn is a graduating junior at Arizona State University studying Nonprofit Leadership & Management. She is set to serve in the PeaceCorps after graduation as... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • "It is great opportunity for deaf students who can get it with full access"

    Angie B., Gallaudet University

Housing
Academics

Academics

As a global intern in Cape Town, you’ll work full time in a non-paying position within a wide range of opportunities across a diverse set of innovative industries. Extra-curricular cultural activities in and around Cape Town complement your coursework and immerse you in the history and culture of the city. 

This eight-week program includes a full-time internship and an integrated online academic course.  

• All internship placements are offered in English.
• Students should expect to spend approximately 30 -37 hours per week engaged in internship work and an additional 5 - 6 hours per week on academic course work.

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Rising Sophomore standing and above required at time of participation.

Additional visa restrictions may apply and CIEE will advise students as part of the early application process.

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Students participate in an academic course taught in a hybrid learning environment alongside the eight-week, full-time internship. Participation in the integrated academic course and internship are mandatory for all participants.

Program Credit

Total credit: 6 U.S. semester/9 quarter credits

Course Credit

Internship: 6 U.S. semester/9 quarter credits; 15 integrated academic course hours, 225-300 internship placement hours

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

Students are expected to dress and behave professionally throughout their internship project and are subject to the agreed-upon internship protocols arranged by CIEE and the host organizations. The academic course is designed to prepare students for leadership in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse workforce.

Class Format

Students participate in an eight-week CIEE full-time internship and academic course taught weekly. Class and/or work hours are scheduled Monday-Friday, and attendance is strictly enforced for all. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel away from the city when classes are in session.

Grading

Students will be assessed via assignments and activities related to the academic course, including but not limited to: online discussion forums, reflective papers, individual or group presentations, analysis of readings, an internship work plan, and feedback from internship supervisor. Internship supervisors and students each provide written evaluations of progress towards goals.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Summer Session II 2025

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

The work culture in Cape Town is laid-back yet professional, emphasizing work-life balance, creativity, and innovation. Interns can expect to work with local NGOs, startups, or established businesses. There’s a strong sense of community, and colleagues often socialize after work in a friendly, multicultural environment. 

A female intern picks crops from a field

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.

A female intern sits in front of a studio A/V board while recording

Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications

Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A student intern sitting at a microscope in a lab

Health Science

Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.

Interns wearing hardhats at a community development site

Human Services

Deepen your knowledge of human services through social welfare work, community development, and international advocacy.

A lawyer and an intern reviewing documents in an office

Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security

Experience international legal systems, global justice issues, and law enforcement challenges in courts, firms, and agencies.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE STEM Scholarship

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Summer 2025 8 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $7,450

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300

Educational Costs = $4,450

Housing = $2,500*

Insurance = $200

Total Fees = $7,450

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $520

International Airfare = $1,450

Local Transportation = $500

Personal expenses = $155††

Other = $80

Total Costs = $2,705

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Nompilo Ndlovu

Center Director

Dr. Nompilo Ndlovu has over a decade of experience working within the academic, policy and non-profit sectors, focused on the African continent.

Caleb Kay

Student Life Coordinator

Caleb has a degree in Political Science, Governance, and Sociology from the University of Cape Town.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Utilize the Internship Search Tool

Search our catalog of internship opportunities to view the placements that align best with your academic and professional goals.

2

Start a Program Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

3

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

4

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Email us if you have questions or need help applying to this program. Upon your acceptance, you'll speak with on-site CIEE staff about your internship goals. CIEE will reach out to companies that align with your goals, interests, and qualifications.

Request Info