1. What programs are available and when do they start?
- 2026 Winter: Classes: 12 Jan – 6 Feb | Internship: 10 Feb – 10 Jun 2026
- 2026 Spring: Classes: 9 Mar – 3 Apr | Internship: 6 Apr – 31 Jul 2026
2. How long is the internship phase?
Choose a 3-, 4-, or 5-month internship; your selection will be locked in when you submit the CRM application form.
3. Who can apply?
- Current students of all nationalities (no Benelux passport required).
4. What industries can I intern in?
Key tracks include International Business, Banking & Finance, Industry & Technology, Agriculture, Market Insight & Strategy, Logistics & Supply Chain, Medical & Semicon, Food & Beverage, Legal & IP, Chemical & Pharma, Marketing and Sustainability & Design.
5. How much does the program cost?
Internship Support Agreement (ISA): €499 (incl. VAT). This covers matching, pre-departure guidance, cultural orientation and continuous on-site support.
ECNU Classes : 12 000 RMB (approx. €1450)
6. Are scholarships or grants available?
Yes, DUO (NL), Erasmus+, and several Belgian/Luxembourg funds are common sources. Apply directly to your national agency; BenCham does not award grants.
7. What documents do I need for my application?
CV, Motivation Letter, signed Internship Support Agreement, and proof of payment.
8. What is the admission timeline?
The online portal accepts applications until ≈1 month before each cohort begins. Early submission is recommended because matching can take several weeks.
9. What happens in the intake call?
A BenCham advisor will discuss your background, industry preferences, required skills, ideal duration, and any logistical needs to create a personalized shortlist of companies.
10. How does the matchmaking process look like?
Each participant will have up to three matchmaking calls with different member companies, based on their interests. These conversations help both sides explore potential opportunities and identify the best fit. Once a match is made, we will move on to the admission phase.
Note: Chinese drugs policy
In China, the rule is very simple: zero tolerance for any form of drug use, whether in China or in your home country. A medical test will be conducted upon your arrival.
All participants should refrain from taking drugs 3 months prior to arriving in China.
11. Do I have to speak Chinese before applying?
No prior Mandarin is required. Everyone starts with 4 weeks of Chinese language & culture classes at East China Normal University (ECNU) before you start your internship. However, we do notice a requirement for Mandarin in certain industries, such as Finance, Banking, etc.
12. Where will I live?
On-campus dorms during the chinese classes (ECNU):
Economy twin (shared bathroom): 80-110 RMB pp/day
Standard twin (private bathroom): 160-200 RMB pp/day
Apartments during your stay in Shanghai : The Benelux Chamber team will connect you with a local agency to provide private housing. Typical central-Shanghai studios range 3 000 – 5 000 RMB/month (utilities extra).
13. Will I share a dorm room?
Yes, dorms are double occupancy; roommates may be other Intern2China participants or international students enrolled at ECNU.
14. Can I arrange housing before coming to China?
Yes, many participants book their dorm rooms before they arrive.
15. What visa will I receive, and can I travel?
Participants enter China on an X1 student visa. After arrival, this visa will be converted into a residence permit for off-campus internships, endorsed by the Shanghai Entry-Exit Bureau. Multiple-entries apply only once you have the residence permit, allowing for weekend trips to places like Hong Kong or Japan (please check current re-entry regulations).
16. Is the internship legal?
Yes, the Benelux Chamber of Commerce in China is currently the only foreign chamber with a formal agreement allowing legal internship permits for international students in Shanghai.
17. What support do I receive on the ground?
Assistance with airport pickup, SIM-card & bankcard, accommodation, police registration, medical health check, conversion to a residence permit, social events, etc.
18. Are cultural or networking activities included?
The Benelux Chamber of Commerce will host various activities for students & young professionals during your stay.
19. What insurance do I need?
Comprehensive travel & health insurance covering China for the full stay is mandatory; proof is requested during onboarding at the university.
20. How safe is Shanghai?
Shanghai consistently ranks among the world’s safest megacities.
21. Are part-time internships possible?
Yes, it’s possible. However, internship positions will be limited.
22. What if I already found my own internship in China?
We still recommend that you apply. This will ensure you have the appropriate visa for your entire stay. It also allows you to take part in the four-week language course and benefit from the support offered by the Benelux Chamber of Commerce.