Working abroad expands your career horizons and global perspective. Whether you want a long-term assignment, a short-term internship, volunteer work, or teaching opportunity, there are pathways available.
Work visas and programs vary significantly by country. Some countries offer streamlined pathways for North Americans; others require sponsorship or special visas. Start by researching the specific country you’re interested in.
Escape Artist – Articles and resources on working internationally
GoinGlobal – Country and global city career guides plus job and internship postings across the world
Go Abroad – Comprehensive site with study abroad, language schools, international internships (paid and volunteer), volunteer programs, teaching jobs, and international employment
University of Michigan International Center – Comprehensive guides on preparing for international work, including FAQs, visas, and strategies
Many opportunities fund international work, research, and study. Explore:
Northeastern Resources
- Search Fellowships & Scholarships and Undergraduate Research & Fellowships
- Many scholarships and fellowships require US citizenship
- Some permit applications through your country of citizenship if you’re not a US citizen
Note: Check whether opportunities are available to international students or US citizens only before applying.
International Center: Teaching Abroad – Resources for certified K-12 teachers and English language instructors interested in teaching internationally
Volunteer Forever – Teach English in over 100 countries; also offers healthcare, animals, environment, and community development opportunities
Different countries have different visa pathways. Research the specific country and type of work you’re seeking.
Australia & Singapore Work Visas
BUNAC (Work Authorization Programs) – Work authorization for Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Canada. Allows up to one year of work and includes limited job search and accommodation assistance.
Cultural Vistas – Programs for students through executives focused on global competency and positive change. Offerings include:
- Seed grants to address global challenges
- Internships and Fellowships
- J-1 Visa Sponsorship Services
- Professional Study Tours
- Young Pacific Leaders and Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiatives Program fees vary by location
Global Placement – Internship openings in many locations worldwide
UN Volunteers (UNV) – Volunteer locally, internationally, or online. Similar to the Peace Corps in structure. Create a profile in the UNV Global Talent Pool—many assignments are filled by matching profiles rather than open postings. Work toward UN Sustainable Development Goals in areas like poverty reduction, health, education, climate action, and decent work.
Volunteer World – Search engine for volunteer opportunities abroad. Provides information and project listings; does not place volunteers directly.
Volunteers for Peace – Short-term volunteer programs (2-3 weeks, averaging $495) and longer options (1-3 months+). Projects occur mostly May-September. Over 100 countries available; searchable by location or work type. English spoken on most projects.
International Volunteer Programs Association – Extensive search engine for volunteer opportunities from every region globally, for any desired length of time
Peace Corps – Ultimate resource for US citizens 18+ with a college degree. US government organization offering work in:
- Agriculture
- Community Economic Development
- Education
- Environment
- Health
- Youth Development
Three programs: Peace Corps Volunteer (2 years + training), Peace Corps Response (3-6 months), and Virtual Service Pilot. See which is right for you.
Foreign Policy Association Job Board – Hundreds of job postings at international organizations located both abroad and in the US
Idealist.org – One of the most comprehensive international job websites. Thousands of postings in nearly every country. Includes nonprofits, NGOs, and international organizations.
XING – Many job postings around the world
Jobs.ac.uk – International job postings, especially in academic and research fields
Getting Started
Working abroad looks different depending on your situation—your visa status, the country you’re targeting, whether you need funding, and your timeline all shape your path. We recommend starting with a conversation:
- Schedule a meeting with a Career Counselor to discuss your international goals, timeline, and constraints
- Identify your interests during your conversation—country, type of work (teaching, volunteer, paid), duration
- Learn how to research – A counselor can help you understand how to learn about visa requirements for your target country and what’s actually feasible
- Explore funding options – We can point you toward Fellowships & Scholarships and Undergraduate Research & Fellowships that match your situation
- Connect with alumni – Access your free NUsource account to find Northeastern alumni who have worked in your target location
- Refine your plan based on what you’ve learned and revisit with Career Design as your plans develop
How We Can Help
Drop in or set up an appointment with a Career Counselor to:
- Evaluate whether international work fits your career and personal goals
- Learn how to Identify funding sources and understanding eligibility requirements
- Prepare applications for international fellowships or programs
- Navigate the logistics of working abroad and staying connected to your network at home
Questions?
Reach out to Career Design at huskycareers@northeastern.edu or visit the Career Studio for additional guidance.