How to Apply for Pre-Nursing Internships Overseas in 2025

Nursing is more than just a profession. It’s a calling. Nurses are often the backbone of patient care, providing critical support in hospitals, clinics, and underserved communities. But before you can take on this essential role, you need real-world experience that goes beyond the classroom.

That’s where pre-nursing internships come in. Whether you’re a college student exploring nursing or preparing to apply for nursing school, an internship—especially abroad—can give you an edge. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how pre-nursing internships work and how to apply for one that aligns with your goals.

What Is a Pre-Nursing Internship?

A pre-nursing internship is a structured opportunity for students—usually before or during undergraduate nursing studies—to shadow healthcare providers and assist with patient care in clinical settings. These internships can take place locally or internationally, and they help you:

Gain exposure to nursing tasks and responsibilities
Develop hands-on skills like taking vitals or assisting in triage
Explore various nursing specialties
Strengthen your application for nursing school

At Go Elective, our pre-nursing internships in East Africa offer immersive clinical experiences in busy hospitals and rural outreach clinics, where you'll work alongside experienced nurses and public health officers.

Why Choose an Internship Abroad?

Healthcare challenges and delivery methods vary greatly between countries. Interning abroad gives you:

A deeper understanding of global health disparities
Exposure to conditions like malaria, tuberculosis, and maternal health complications
Opportunities to assist in public health education and community outreach
Cultural immersion that improves your interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills

Our programs at Go Elective are designed to help you build clinical confidence while exploring East Africa’s vibrant cultures and healthcare systems.

How to Apply for a Pre-Nursing Internship: Step-by-Step

Assess Your Readiness

Ask yourself:

Are you comfortable working in diverse or under-resourced healthcare settings?
Do you have a genuine interest in patient care and community health?
Are you open to learning across cultures and adapting to unfamiliar environments?

Even if you’re just beginning your pre-nursing journey, enthusiasm, professionalism, and a willingness to learn go a long way.

Explore Internship Programs That Align With Your Goals

Not all programs are created equal. Look for internships that offer:

Meaningful clinical exposure (not just observation)
A safe and well-supported environment
Structured mentorship from healthcare professionals
Relevance to your intended nursing specialty (e.g., pediatrics, public health, maternal care)

Go Elective offers tailored pre-nursing placements that match your academic background and personal interests. Learn more about our nursing internships.

Use University Resources

Start with your school’s career center or global health department. They often have partnerships with trusted organizations or offer guidance on:

How to get academic credit for internships
Which programs align with your school’s learning objectives
What documentation you’ll need (e.g., immunization records, letters of recommendation)

Apply Early and Prepare Thoroughly

Many international internship programs, including Go Elective, open applications several months in advance. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

A completed application form
A personal statement or motivation letter
Proof of enrollment in a nursing or pre-health program
Academic transcripts or GPA
Payment of a program fee (includes housing, meals, airport transfers, and in-country support)

If you’re concerned about affordability, check out our guide on how to fund your internship abroad.

Finalize Travel and Documentation

Once accepted:

Apply for a passport (if you don’t already have one)
Review visa requirements for your destination country
Book your flights early to save money
Begin any required vaccinations for travel health prep

Our Go Elective team supports you every step of the way with pre-departure orientation, visa support, and 24/7 in-country assistance. You can also reach out to us via hello@goelective.com

Where Can You Go?

Go Elective currently offers pre-nursing internships East Africa. Some of our popular destinations for Pre-Nursing Internships are:

Mombasa, Kenya

Work at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, one of the largest public hospitals in East Africa.

Arusha, Tanzania

Gain community health experience in district hospitals and outreach clinics serving under-resourced populations.

Each program runs from 2 to 12 weeks, giving you flexibility to match your academic calendar or summer break.

Final Thoughts: Why It’s Worth It

A pre-nursing internship abroad isn’t just an impressive line on your resume—it’s an eye-opening experience that builds maturity, adaptability, and compassion.

By stepping into real-world clinical environments and connecting with patients across cultures, you’ll grow both personally and professionally. Whether you're preparing for nursing school or exploring the field, Go Elective’s internships help you stand out in admissions, build global awareness, and start making an impact now.

Ready to apply?

> Explore our Pre-Nursing Internship Programs or reach out to our team via hello@goelective.com to learn more about upcoming cohorts and how to secure your spot.

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Go Elective offers immersive opportunities for medical students, pre-med undergraduates, residents, nursing practitioners, and PAs to gain guided invaluable experience in busy hospitals abroad. Discover the power of study, travel, and impact.