1. What programs are available and when do they start?
- 2026 Spring: Arrival Time: 2 Feb – 5 Feb | Internship (ending flexible): 9 Feb – 7 Aug
- 2026 Fall: Arrival Time: 31 Aug – 3 Sep | Internship (ending flexible): 10 Sep | 6 Mar (2027)
2. How long is the internship phase?
Choose an internship duration between 3 and 6 months; 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), enrolled in a university which is recognized by the the CSCSE.
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 Fee (ISF): €599 (incl. VAT). This covers matching, pre-departure guidance, airport pick up, housing relocation assistance, cultural orientation, the Bootcamp Day and continuous on-site support.
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, proof of current enrolment in a university (non-Chinese), scan of passport and proof of ISF-payment.
8. What is the admission timeline?
Our CRM system 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 Benelux Chamber 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. However, we do notice a requirement for Mandarin in certain industries, such as Finance, Banking, etc.
12. Where will I live?
The Benelux Chamber team will connect you with a local agency to provide private housing. Typical central-Shanghai studios range 4000 – 6000 RMB/month (utilities extra).
13. 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.
14. Can I arrange housing before coming to China?
Yes, many participants book viewings with our agents before coming to China.
15. What about the visa and can I travel?
Participants have to enter China on a visa-free base. China offers visa-free policies for most countries. After arrival, the Benelux Chamber of Commerce will apply for a S2 Internship Permit (ONLY OBTAINABLE WITHIN MAINLAND CHINA). The Chamber shall collect all necessary documents from both the applicant, as well as the internship provider (employer). Once you receive the S2 Internship Permit, you mustn’t exit Mainland China during your internship period, as the internship permit will be render invalid upon exiting Mainland China!
16. Is the internship legal?
Yes, the Benelux Chamber of Commerce in China is currently the only foreign chamber with a formal agreement with local educational institutions 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.
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.