Self Sourcing of GII Internships
GII supports the self sourcing of internships that are innovation/entrepreneurship related.
Applications are on a rolling basis by submitting the self-sourced form.
Is there an overseas internship that you chanced upon that you’re keen to join? Or perhaps you’ve come to hear about the various GII partners and past internship opportunities, but you have something different in mind.
Then self sourcing your own internship will be how the GII team recommends for you to embark on your GII journey and still receive the programme support.
Selection Process
- Application & review / Eligibility and Programme Criteria
- Interviews / Assessments
- Internships Offer & Admin Procedures
- Start Internship in country
- Full-time SMU undergraduates returning for at least one semester of study after the internship.
- Internship must be innovation/entrepreneurship related, at approved company types (startups, VCs, incubators, accelerators, tech parks, innovation sectors).
- No internships allowed in country of citizenship.
- Minimum 12-week overseas stint required.
- Do note that any early termination of internship or reduction of original internship duration will result in rejection of GRTP application (if applicable) and subject to review and approval by ESG.
Two Pathways for Self-Sourcing:
Apply to GII
Students who apply to GII and get shortlisted have the benefit of being matched for opportunities sourced by the GII team. At the same time, students can go about self-sourcing their own opportunities.No Application Necessary
Students need not apply for GII in order to self-source internships that can be recognised and supported by GII. However, this pathway won’t afford the benefit of being matched with opportunities sourced by the GII team. In addition, for students who didn’t get shortlisted for GII, the scrutiny for due diligence of the employers that are self-sourced will be higher to ensure that the internship is a quality offering.
Before accepting any offers, submit your internship details using the GII self-sourcing form for evaluation of suitability for GRTP funding (if applicable).
- Internship Applications: Students who successfully qualify for GII will be able to review and apply for internship positions with host companies.
- Placement Interview: Hiring managers from these host companies will select applicants for interviews.
- Successful Placement: Successful candidates will receive internship offers or placements based on demonstrated value, determination, and fit with host companies.
- Note: Vacancies are highly limited and placement depends on a strong match between students and host companies.
Documentation and Pre-Departure
- Secure written confirmation of internship offer from employer for visa application.
- Check with School for recognition of internship for specific course requirements
- For details on internship requirements, refer to Frequently Asked Questions | Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre
- Apply for university support letters if needed for visa.
- Complete mandatory pre-departure checklist on OASIS
- Apply from LOA (Leave of Absence) if relevant) from your School Administrator at least 3-4 weeks in advance of internship. Leave of Absence | Matriculation 2025
Final Approval and Preparation
- Upon confirmation of written internship offer from employer, student can proceed to apply for GRTP funding (if applicable) via programme manager and concurrently start with visa application
- Await formal endorsement from School (for recognition of internship or for LOA),
- Obtain approval of visa application before booking travel or accommodation.
- Review financial aid options and confirm insurance coverage.
Additional Requirements (Self-Sourcing Track):
- Must be at startup/innovation sector.
- GRTP funding (if applicable) conditional on ESG approval.
Where to Source and Secure Internship Opportunities
- Start by identifying internships in suitable startup/ innovation sectors.
- Before accepting any offers, submit your internship details using the GII self-sourcing form for evaluation of suitability for GRTP funding (if applicable).
