IAESTE (the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience) has over 65 years of experience offering students international work placements in the STEM subject area. The aims of our programme sit neatly alongside government and Higher Education focus on increasing the proportion of students accessing work experience abroad, raising awareness of outward mobility and its benefits, and improving the UK’s image abroad. Currently, IAESTE is operational in over 80 countries worldwide, with access to highly skilled, motivated students in around 1000 universities. In the UK, IAESTE is managed by the British Council – the world’s largest cultural organisation in the world. Further details can be found at: www.britishcouncil.org/iaeste
From an employer’s perspective, IAESTE offers a low-cost, hassle-free way of bringing a highly qualified, international trainee on placement. Placements typically take place during the summer months, when students are on holiday from University and can commit to a minimum 6 weeks work experience. Students are hand-picked through our stringent selection and matched by IAESTE based on the criteria and requirements set forth by the employer. IAESTE takes care of visas, work permits and accommodation, leaving the student and employer to get the most out of the placement. The only cost to an employer is the trainee’s wages, which must adhere to the national minimum of £234 net p/w.
IAESTE trainees are hard-working and highly motivated students who bring an international dimension to the workplace, as well as fresh ideas and different, often innovative perspectives. Previous IAESTE trainees have worked on award winning projects, been credited in published academic research and been offered employment upon completion of their placement both in the UK and in their home countries. With over 65 years of experience, IAESTE also offers a reliable and affordable service for businesses of all sizes, and has experience dealing with a variety of companies across all STEM subject areas.