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IMA's Award-Winning Healthcare Internships Abroad
Hospital shadowing programs are proven to strengthen med school applications — and our programs go above and beyond. Unique, in-depth, and focused on multiple medical specialties, our summer and winter internships take place in East Africa, South America or in multi-country formats. In part thanks to our immersive and multifaceted internship model, IMA alumni go on to top MD, DO, and PA programs across the country.
Interested in spending an unforgettable summer or winter break with IMA?
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Reasons to Join IMA
Reasons to Join IMA
International Medical Aid (IMA) offers healthcare and pre-med internships in various medical specialties, providing students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in clinical settings and develop specialized skills, including the following:
Maximize Your Learning
Compared to typical pre-health shadowing programs, IMA delivers exceptional depth and breadth — more hands-on, didactic, and service-learning experiences, as well as expansive global and intercultural insights.
Prioritize Your GPA
Our programs are so full of extracurricular accomplishments that you can focus on your academic goals while in school, without worrying about how your pre-med requirements will fit into your schedule.
Impress Top Medical Schools
IMA helps you showcase your competencies through powerful stories. More than a list of accomplishments, our programs give you the extensive skillsets medical schools are looking for — notably grounded in compelling, real-world experience.
What's in an IMA Program?
- From 50 to 200 hours of immersive clinical shadowing
- Training in multiple medical specialties (1 per week)
- Access to world-class clinical mentors and advising
- Internships offered year-round during academic breaks (2-12 weeks)
- Study abroad programs located throughout East Africa and South America
- Cultural treks crafted by international experts and local guides
- Community service through targeted medical outreach
- Invaluable, grounded insights into global healthcare
- Designated mentors available and looking after your needs 24/7
- Structured schedule that covers everything from lectures, hospital rounds, and clinical work to cultural outings and community outreach
- Transportation provided by our private drivers, and your personal safety is always our top priority
- Comprehensive post-program admissions support to get you into your top med schools
success stories
Our Impact and Success Stories
At International Medical Aid, the value we offer extends beyond our programs. It's echoed in the positive impact we have on the lives and careers of our students. Each student's journey is unique, yet they all share a common thread - transformative experiences that have shaped their academic and professional journeys, while creating lasting connections with peers and mentors from around the world.
From enhancing their understanding of global health to gaining hands-on exposure in their respective fields, our alumni have found their time with IMA to be profoundly impactful. They've not only honed their skills and knowledge, but also learned to navigate the complexities of healthcare with a renewed perspective and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About IMA Internship Programs
Anyone pursuing a career in healthcare, including undergraduate students, graduate students, licensed professionals, and individuals seeking global clinical experience, can apply.
Applications are submitted through this link. The process involves completing an application form, submitting your resume, and detailing your goals for participating in a global health program.
While prerequisites vary by program, candidates typically need an interest in healthcare, the ability to travel internationally, and, in some cases, prior clinical or academic experience in the health field.
Yes, many IMA internships can count for academic or course credit, depending on your institution's policies. Participants are encouraged to coordinate with their academic advisors or the institution's registrar's office to ensure the program meets the required criteria.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but early submission is encouraged to secure your spot in your preferred program and location.
No, IMA programs are designed for individuals at all experience levels, from beginners exploring healthcare to advanced professionals seeking international exposure.
While prerequisites vary by program, most require an interest in healthcare, the ability to travel internationally, and, in some cases, prior clinical or academic experience. Please note that programs in South America require at least two years of Spanish language experience.
Program durations vary, with options ranging from 2 weeks to 6 months, depending on your preference and availability.
Participants engage in clinical shadowing, healthcare workshops, and community outreach while immersing themselves in the local culture through guided experiences.
Yes. Our programs—including didactic experiences such as the Global Health Lecture Series and Clinical Simulation—are conducted in English. Programs in South America require at least two years of Spanish language experience. Additionally, every program includes intensive, clinically oriented language courses in the local language to enhance patient interaction and cultural immersion.
IMA provides comprehensive pre-departure orientation, on-site program coordinators, housing arrangements, and 24/7 participant support.
IMA program fees include all in-country expenses, such as accommodations, chef-prepared meals, transportation related to the placement, hospital fees, travel insurance, and unlimited WiFi access. These fees also contribute to supporting IMA's Global Humanitarian Initiatives. Travel expenses are not included.
IMA provides need-based scholarships and encourages participants to apply for external grants and funding opportunities.
The fee typically covers accommodation, meals, program materials, orientation sessions, and on-ground support during your internship.
IMA offers flexible payment plans to help participants manage their program costs.
Absolutely! IMA provides guidance on fundraising strategies to help participants finance their programs.
IMA prioritizes safety by partnering with reputable hospitals, conducting risk assessments, and providing 24/7 in-country support.
Participants should consult their healthcare provider regarding recommended vaccines and medications based on the destination and program duration.
Yes, travel insurance is required for all participants, covering health, accident, and trip interruption during the program.
IMA has trained staff on-site to handle emergencies and coordinate with local healthcare facilities to provide immediate assistance.
Yes, participants receive detailed pre-departure information, including health precautions, cultural tips, packing lists, and travel advice.
Alumni Experiences & Testimonials
Five words. That’s it. The ultimate definition of short and sweet. At the end of each week during debriefing, we were asked to present the group with five words that encompassed our experience in our respective departments. Every Friday, this…
My experience in Mombasa and CGTRH was priceless. All of the IMA staff were so accommodating and supportive. They always made sure to ask you how you were doing and that you were cared for. I never doubted my safety…
I first started out losing my bags at the airport. Once I finally got them back, the staff was more than happy to pick up my bags twice for me. Javan and Teddy were awesome; I admired their upbeat attitudes…
Ready to Start Your Journey with IMA?
Choosing to join IMA means you're committed to making a difference in your future and the world. Ready to get started? Apply Today and become part of a community that's shaping the future of healthcare, one student at a time. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to Contact Us.
Our team is always here to help. Join us and start your extraordinary journey today.
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