The Al Qasimi Foundation in the UAE offers an internship program for students interested in public policy. This program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students and lasts up to three months.
It is particularly beneficial for those aiming for graduate school or wanting to apply their studies through real-world research.
The Foundation provides a welcoming and respectful environment for interns. Students gain professional experience and work with an international team.
The program aims to expose interns to different aspects of the organization and involve them in meaningful projects that positively impact the Ras Al Khaimah community.
Internship tasks may include reviewing literature, conducting fieldwork, gathering and analyzing data, creating multimedia projects, and assisting with reports and administrative tasks.
Interns are expected to follow the Foundation’s policies and maintain a professional attitude. During the internship, they will produce at least one policy brief or creative work. This will be published on the Foundation’s website.
The program provides interns with furnished housing, local transport, and a small stipend to cover living costs. However, interns must cover their travel expenses.
Objectives of the Internship Program
The internship program at the Al Qasimi Foundation has several main goals:
- Professional Experience: The program offers valuable experience for outstanding students, allowing them to make real contributions to community-focused projects in Ras Al Khaimah.
- Collaboration: It builds connections between recognized international universities and national institutions in the UAE, encouraging a network of scholars.
- Cross-Cultural Exchange: The program promotes curiosity, new ideas, and cross-cultural understanding.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants interested in the Al Qasimi Foundation internship must meet certain criteria:
- Academic: Applicants should be enrolled in an accredited university, either as an undergraduate or graduate student. Recent graduates (within two years) may also apply.
- English Proficiency: For students whose primary language is not English, a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 85 or an IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
- Relevant Study Area: Ideal candidates study areas like education, public health, urban planning, economic development, food access, or public policy. The Foundation may also consider students in public relations, multimedia, or translation, based on project needs.
- Interest in the Region: Applicants must show a genuine interest in Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE, and the Gulf region.
Selection Criteria
Students who meet these eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply. Selection is based on three main criteria:
- Academic Performance: High academic achievements are very important.
- Quality of Application: The application materials should be professional and well-prepared.
- Alignment with Foundation Projects: The applicant’s interests should align with the Foundation’s current work.
- Personal statements are a key part of the application. They should highlight relevant experiences, coursework, and skills. The Foundation is particularly interested in applicants who have clear academic and career goals.
- Preference goes to those planning to pursue graduate studies or gain research experience in education or public policy.
- A selection committee, including Program Managers and the Director, reviews applications. It’s worth noting that competition for this program is strong. Although the Foundation receives many high-quality applications, only a few are selected.
- If an applicant meets the basic criteria but is not selected, their application remains on file for a year. If a relevant position opens, the Foundation may reach out.
Internship Schedule
The Foundation offers flexible scheduling for interns, adapting the work term to program needs and the intern’s availability. Applicants can note any schedule preferences or limitations in their application.
Application Process
Applicants are advised to seek guidance from their university career centers to prepare professional resumes, cover letters, and personal statements.
The application is done online, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is beneficial.
Application Steps
- Online Application Form: Complete the form on the Al Qasimi Foundation’s website.
- Cover Letter: This letter should explain why the applicant wants to intern with the Foundation and describe their relevant experiences, skills, and academic and career goals. The letter should also specify the desired internship dates and duration.
- Resume: Include information on education, research experience, work history, honors, and extracurricular activities.
- Transcripts: Submit the latest transcript for the current program and official transcripts for completed degrees.
- English Proficiency: Provide an official TOEFL or IELTS score report if English is a second language.
- References: Provide contact details of two or three references, with at least one from a professor at the applicant’s current university. Another reference can be from a work supervisor.
- Academic Writing Sample: This sample should be a recent paper written for a university course.
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. All application materials, including cover letters, resumes, and writing samples, should be in English, though
Apply now. We wish you all the best!
