How to Organize a Pre-Med Internship Abroad on a Budget

Dreaming of a pre-med internship abroad but anxious about the cost? You’re not alone. International internships are often seen as expensive, reserved for students with deep pockets or fully funded programs. But at Go Elective, we believe global health learning should be accessible to all future healthcare professionals—not just a privileged few.

If you're determined to gain hands-on clinical exposure while traveling, learning, and growing, this guide will help you organize your pre-med internship abroad on a budget—step-by-step.

Why Pre-Med Internships Abroad Are Worth Every Penny

Before diving into budgeting strategies, let’s be clear: a global health internship isn’t a luxury—it’s a strategic investment in your medical future. With Go Elective, you'll:

Shadow doctors in public hospitals
Rotate through departments like OB/GYN, pediatrics, emergency medicine, and surgery
Gain insight into healthcare systems in underserved settings
Build competitive material for your personal statement and AMCAS activities
Volunteer, travel, and engage in meaningful cross-cultural learning

Explore Go Elective's pre-med programs in Kenya and Tanzania

Step 1: Know What You’re Paying For

For budget-conscious students, Go Elective offers two main options:

Placement-Only Program

This lower-cost track is ideal if you already have accommodation sorted (e.g., staying with family or traveling independently). It includes:

Hospital placement and supervision
Pre-departure support
In-country orientation
Completion certificate and recommendation letters

> To explore this option, contact hello@goelective.com

Full Program (All-Inclusive)

Starts at $2,300 USD for 2 weeks (excluding airfare), payable in installments. It includes:

Hospital mentorship and placement
Shared student accommodation
Daily meals
Airport pickup and in-country transport
24/7 safety support
Optional excursions and cultural add-ons

> See the full list of what’s included

Step 2: Break Your Budget into Pieces

Here’s a sample 3-week budget for a full Go Elective program:

Item	Estimated Cost (USD)
Full Program Fee (Plus deposit)	$2,600
Roundtrip Flight	$1,100
Visa, Insurance, Vaccines	$150
Personal Spending	$250
Total Estimate	~$4,100

Want to save more? The Placement-Only option can reduce costs by $800–$1,200. Also note that this can be paid in installments.

Step 3: Fund Your Experience (Without Going Into Debt)

It’s entirely possible to fundraise your way abroad. Here’s how:

#1. Crowdfunding

Create a campaign on:

Tips:

Share your story and explain why this internship matters
Break down where donations will go
Include visuals—photos, videos, infographics
Promote on social media and through email
Use a hashtag like #EmmasGlobalMedTrip

#2. Local Sponsors

Reach out to:

Small businesses, churches, or rotary clubs
Nonprofits and health-related foundations
University clubs or alumni associations

Offer to share a presentation or blog post when you return.

#3. Grants & Scholarships

Check with:

Your school’s international or financial aid office
Scholarships.com
Grants.gov
StudentAid.gov

#4. Host Fundraising Events

Try:

Bake sales, trivia nights, benefit concerts
Selling T-shirts or handmade goods
Raffles and competitions (get prizes donated locally)

Every dollar counts—and shows initiative, which admissions committees notice.

> See complete fundraising guide

Step 4: Stretch Your Dollar Abroad

Even once abroad, you can spend wisely:

Book flights early and use student discount sites
Use Go Electives included local transport instead of taxis
Choose local restaurants over touristy spots
Limit weekend splurges—plan big trips (like safaris) in advance
Shop in local markets instead of malls

Step 5: Choose the Right Payment Plan

Go Elective offers flexible payment options:

Pay in 2–4 interest-free installments before your trip
Request post-trip payment plans (subject to approval)
Ask about group discounts if you’re traveling with friends

No need to pay it all upfront—budget around your timeline.

Real Talk: Budgeting Adds to the Experience

Organizing your internship on a budget makes the journey even more meaningful. You’ll:

Strengthen financial and project planning skills
Grow more confident in asking for support
Learn how to tell your story and take ownership of your goals
Join a global community of driven, compassionate healthcare students

See how internships abroad build med school readiness

Conclusion: You Can Afford This—And You’ll Never Regret It

An international internship doesn’t have to derail your finances. With Go Elective’s flexible pricing, placement-only programs, and fundraising support, you can take part in a meaningful, career-boosting experience—without going into debt.

Organize smart. Spend strategically. And go boldly.

> Start your budget-friendly journey today or email us at hello@goelective.com