Physician Assistant and Pre-PA Internships

An IMA internship offers you more than just a chance to shadow healthcare professionals—it builds core competencies that medical and PA schools highly value. 

Through your experience abroad, you’ll learn about medicine in diverse environments, gaining resourcefulness and a realistic perspective on global healthcare challenges. 

This opportunity demonstrates to admissions committees that you’ve gone the extra mile to explore and understand the medical field, much like volunteer work or hands-on experiences. Additionally, by asking questions, keeping a detailed journal, and engaging with your mentors, you cultivate meaningful relationships that may lead to strong letters of recommendation—an essential component of your application.

We offer rotations across multiple specialties, including emergency medicine, internal medicine, surgery, dermatology, pediatrics, oncology, and more. You’ll be placed in a setting that complements your skills and career objectives.

• 24/7 In-Country & U.S.-Based Support
• Cost-effective flight planning with FlightFox
• Pre-Departure Assistance (travel, visas, immunizations, etc.)
• Physician-Led Orientation covering local healthcare systems, safety, and cultural norms
• Hospital/Clinic Placement with structured clinical rotations and mentorship by licensed PAs, physicians, and other healthcare providers
• Global Health Lecture Series led by local and international experts
• Community Medical Clinics & Health Education (e.g., hygiene education, women’s health)
• Weekly Cultural Activities like treks, language lessons, and local excursions
• Safe, Gated Housing with 24/7 security, Wi-Fi, an in-house chef for meals, and weekly laundry service
• Support for Graduate School Applications (letters of recommendation, advising, etc.)

IMA admits cohorts ranging from approximately 35 to 70 interns in any given cycle, all residing in our secure program residences. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn and network with peers from diverse backgrounds.

You’ll live in one of our comfortable Program Residences in safe neighborhoods within our host countries. Accommodations are shared, with amenities such as Wi-Fi, meals prepared by an in-house chef, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security, promoting a supportive, community-centered environment.

Interns in the Physician Assistant/Pre‑PA Internship program typically spend 6–8 hours in the hospital during structured clinical rotations (for example, from 8 AM to 4 PM) and have afternoon downtime for activities, including our Global Health Lecture Series and Community and Clinical Outreach Activites. You may opt to work one night shift per week, and weekends are flexible for excursions or extra clinical work. Your schedule is developed in partnership with your Program Mentor. Here is a Sample Program Schedule.

Yes. While the nature of patient interaction varies depending on your role, the hours you accumulate during an Physician Assistant/Pre‑PA Internship are considered direct patient care experience. Furthermore, these hours are validated by our Medical Director in the US, ensuring that your experience meets professional standards.

Yes. We support interns through:

• Payment Plans (2 or 4 installments, with full balance due 30 days prior to start)
• Guidance on Scholarships (through your university or external organizations)
• Fundraising Resources on platforms like GoFundMe and FundMyTravel
• Uplift Loans for flexible, monthly payment options

Program fees typically include:

• Housing: Secure, shared accommodations
• Meals: Three daily meals
• Transportation: In-country transportation (airport pick-up/drop-off and daily travel to clinic/hospital)
• Clinical Placement and Mentorship: Structured rotations with experienced professionals
• Medical Insurance: Coverage up to $1,000,000
• Cultural Excursions & Community Outreach: Weekly activities
• 24/7 In-Country Support: Ongoing staff support
  Please check our website for the most current fee schedule based on your desired location and internship duration.

We suggest budgeting around $50–$100 per week for personal expenses (e.g., dining out, local transportation to cafes or markets, souvenirs, or weekend activities).

Absolutely. IMA maintains a 100% safety rating across all program sites. We prioritize intern safety by selecting secure housing, providing comprehensive orientations, and offering 24/7 in-country support. Our staff is well-versed in local protocols and emergency procedures.

Visa regulations differ by country. Upon acceptance, IMA provides guidance on the visa application process, including required documents and timelines. Interns are responsible for completing any necessary paperwork, but we’ll guide you every step of the way.

• Pre-Departure Briefing: Assistance with logistics (flights, vaccines, travel insurance)
• In-Country Orientation: Physician-led introductions to local healthcare systems, cultural norms, and safety protocols
• 24/7 On-Site Staff: Available to help with health concerns, housing, placements, or cultural adjustments
• Ongoing Mentorship: Consistent support from licensed healthcare professionals throughout your rotations

If you have further questions or need additional information about International Medical Aid’s Physician Assistant/Pre-PA Internship Program, please contact our admissions team. We’re here to ensure you have a fulfilling and impactful clinical experience abroad!