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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
See below for answers to some questions we get asked quite a bit.
Programs
Q: Will my $150 application fee be refunded if I do not receive an internship placement?
A: A refund will only be given if CSA is unable to secure a satisfactory and mutually agreeable (between the participant and host company) internship placement within three weeks of the intended program start date in one of their chosen fields/sectors specified on their application.
Q: Are there application deadlines?
A: CSA offers flexible program schedules allow participants to apply as little as 6 weeks before their desired start-date. With that said, it is best to apply as soon as possible to allow us to find the most suitable company for you.
Q: What if I have no previous work experience?
A: Not a problem. Many of our interns are gap-year students, undergraduate students or recent graduates, with little or no working experience. All we ask is for participants to have a desire and motivation to learn new skills in the work environment. Fluent English is essential.
Q: Are flights included?
A: No they are not - transportation to and from China needs to be individually organized. However, we can put you in touch with travel agents to help find flights or secure your visa.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Interns should be at least 18 years old by the time they arrive in China.
Q: Where are your internship placements?
A: For the time being, our internship placements are only available in Beijing and Shanghai.
Q: Is my internship paid?
A: No, you should not expect to be paid during your placement, although depending on your language skills and education level, some companies may offer monthly stipends.
Q: Do I need to speak Chinese?
A: No, it is not a requirement to participate in CSA’s internship program. However, knowledge of the Mandarin language will help you be placed in more competitive internships and increase your options and desirability for companies. In addition, it is likely that some of your Chinese colleagues will be able to speak English. CSA ensures that you have an English-speaking supervisor who will provide you support throughout your internship experience.
Q: On average, how many different placements are applicants given to choose from?
A: Though it is dependent on your resume and the availability in your chosen sector for a certain period, we try to offer at least 4 options for your internship.
Q: Can I apply now for a placement next year?
A: Yes; however, your internship offer may be given to you later as available internships vary throughout the year.
Q: What is the shortest internship duration I can participate in? The longest?
A: We offer internships for as little as 4 weeks. Typically, internships do not exceed 1 year.
Q: Is it possible to receive university credit for the internships and/or language courses?
A: If you inform us of your university requirements for receiving credit, we will work to the best of our ability to accommodate your needs.
Q: Is there a monthly living stipend provided by CSA?
A: No, this is not part of our internship package. However, we offer access to a variety of other services, visit here for more info about these services.
Q: Is this program open to applicants of all nationalities?
A: Yes! We’re happy to welcome interns from all corners of the planet; however, visa requirements vary from country to country.
Q: What is the application process?
A: 1. Express interest. 2. Choose which program best fits your needs. 3. Fill out our internship questionnaire (attached), and send us a copy of your most current CV/resume. Cover letters are also preferred/accepted. 4. Submit the $150 application fee. 5. After searching our professional internship database for placements that match your requests, we will send you a brief e-mail describing up to 5 different companies and their internship expectations. 6. You will then preference your favorite 2 internships, for which we will organize interviews for you to participate in once you’ve arrived. 7. Pay any remaining program costs. 8. Nothing is guaranteed - because the interview requires a mutual selection, we encourage you to put your best foot forward!
Q: When do the placements usually start?
A: Internship placements begin the week after arrival, which is generally the first Thursday of every month. Please look HERE for program dates.
Q: How will I get to my company on the first day of work?
A: A member of CSA’s staff will accompany you to the interview for your internship, thus orienting you on how to get there.
Q. I would like an internship in a sector which is not listed on your websites, is this possible?
A: As we are always looking to develop new relationships with different companies, we will do our best to accommodate your area of interest with a placement.
Q: Will it be possible for my internship to lead to permanent employment within the same company?
A: This is a possibility, however, it cannot be guaranteed. We advise interns to let their supervisors know of their company-related career goals as soon as possible.
Q: I am already living in Beijing/Shanghai and am looking for an internship. Could you arrange this for me?
A: Absolutely. Fill out our online application and get in touch with our Work Placement Director, who can begin to arrange interviews for you.
Q: When will I find out my options for my internship placement?
A: After you have completely paid your internship placement fee, we will give you access to our tailor-made list of potential placements for you. After you preference your companies, we will then organize interviews for once you’ve arrived.
Q: Are there scholarships available to fund my internship?
A: Yes. For more information, please visit our Scholarships Section.
Q: What makes CSA: Intern different?
A: At CSA, we don’t want to assign you an internship you’ll eventually dislike. By giving you a voice in the selection process, we work together to find an internship that you can be proud of, that you will enjoy, and that you will use as a stepping stone towards bigger and better professional successes.
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