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Intern with AIT Commercial Section
Here's how to apply for a unique and rewarding internship in Taiwan.

Taiwan Internships

Thank you for your interest in an internship with the Commercial Section of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) is a private, non-profit corporation established to carry out relations between the people of the United States and the people of Taiwan. The Commercial Section is charged with the mission of helping U.S. firms export their goods and services to Taiwan, and attracting Taiwan investment into the United States. To accomplish this mission, we offer U.S. Commercial Service’s services and provide a variety of resources and support to assist U.S. companies entering the Taiwan market.

Description of Intern Duties

  • Following Taiwan market developments in specific sectors and briefing Commercial Officers on those developments.
  • Undertaking research for, and writing, major market opportunity reports, published and maintained by the Department of Commerce.
  • Providing assistance to Commercial Officers and Commercial Specialists conducting Department of Commerce services by participating in meetings, conferences, and/or other trade-related activities.
  • Drafting and/or editing non-sensitive English language correspondence.
  • Conducting business analysis.
  • Developing and/or launching new Commercial Section products, including web site design.
  • Assisting with trade conferences.

Payment and Benefits

  • Internships are unpaid.
  • The AIT does not provide housing, commuting stipends or financial benefits of any kind.
  • Selected interns must sign a Volunteer Agreement indicating their understanding that the AIT cannot be held responsible for workplace-related injuries and/or medical costs. Interns are encouraged to have their own medical and liability insurance.
  • Students should discuss receiving academic credit with their academic institution. Documentation of work or signing of forms can be provided.

Requirements

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must be a student currently enrolled in a college/university.
  • Preference for juniors, seniors and graduate students studying economics, business administration, international relations or related fields.
  • Have long-term availability. (10 weeks, 350 hours minimum)
  • Possess strong computer skills.
  • Possess excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Must be able to pass a credit and background check by the U.S. Government prior to starting the internship.

To apply

Applications are accepted by the following deadlines: 

  • Summer Internship Program (January 31)
  • Fall Internship Program (June 30)
  • Spring Internship Program (September 30).

If you are interested in applying for an internship, please submit the following items to Office.Taipei@trade.gov. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

  • Resume
  • Copy of up-to-date Transcript
  • A cover letter to explaining why you want to be an intern, future goals, what you have to offer the U.S. Commercial Service, and how you hope to benefit from the internship.
  • Preferred dates for the internship. (The minimum requirement is 10 weeks, 350 hours)
  • Email address, home address, and telephone number.

After an offer has been made, applicants will need to coordinate with the U.S. Department of Commerce headquarters to complete a background check form OF-306 (Declaration for Federal Employment). Applicants will also need to be fingerprinted to start the investigation process.

Questions should be directed to the Internship Coordinator at Office.Taipei@trade.gov