Where to begin?
All the useful links for finding an internship, scholarships and other financial aid are gathered here.
Programmes
The NextStep Switzerland programme is supported by the cantons of Vaud and Zurich.
NextStep: What is it?
NextStep is a programme for final-year apprentices, vocational school leavers and young graduates with a CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) and school leaving certificate.
It funds a supervised professional internship lasting 3 to 6 months abroad in high-level companies, in English (minimum level B1 required).
The aim?
To offer a structured first international experience, boosting intercultural skills, networking and CVs, in countries with strong economic dynamism.
How does it work?
Procedure and destinations
Duration: 3-6 months, in English.
Countries: São Paulo (Brazil), Washington D.C./New York (USA), Bangalore (India), Osaka (Japan), Seoul (South Korea) – chosen for their economic potential and Swissnex networks.
Timeline: Preparation in final year; departure after CFC/maturity, depending on available funds (Canton of Vaud/Movetia).
Comprehensive support
Preparation: Skills assessment, definition of professional project, help with applications/interviews.
On site: Swissnex finds companies and provides logistical support.
Financial: Travel subsidies + daily allowances (co-financed by Movetia/canton).
Required profile and application
Criteria: English B1+, excellent professional skills.
Application: Registration form + CV + cover letter (highlighting skills, personality, internship project).
Selection: Based on application; preparation for departure during final year.
Movetia offers a financial support programme for internships in Switzerland or abroad.
The programme is open to students and doctoral candidates enrolled at a university or higher education institution. Internships can last from 2 to 12 months and may be compulsory or optional.
They can take place anywhere in the world for participants leaving from Switzerland, and also in Switzerland for students coming from abroad.
Funding
The programme offers a monthly grant for the duration of the stay:
CHF 440/month for an internship in Europe
CHF 500/month for an internship outside Europe
An eco-friendly mobility bonus is available for travel by train, bus or carpool.
Specific assistance
Additional assistance of up to CHF 12,000 is available for:
people with disabilities
participants with special health needs
Graduate internships
The programme can also fund internships undertaken after graduation.
In this case:
the application must be submitted before the end of the studies
the internship must start within 12 months of graduation
it must also end within the same period
Organisation of the internship
Students are generally responsible for organising their own internships, including:
finding a host institution
accommodation
insurance
any salary
Grant applications must always be submitted through the international relations office of the Swiss university or higher education institution accredited to the SEMP programme.