VET internship abroad: what does it really mean?

What Is a VET Internship Abroad?

A VET internship abroad is a practical learning experience within Vocational Education and Training (VET) that allows students to apply their skills in a real work environment.

When people hear the word internship, they often think of temporary work experience. However, a VET internship abroad under Erasmus+ is something quite different.

It is not simply a student working in another country. It is a structured educational experience designed to connect vocational training with real professional environments.

Understanding Vocational Education and Training (VET)

VET stands for Vocational Education and Training.

A VET internship is a period of work-based learning that enables students in vocational pathways to develop professional skills directly in a company related to their field of study.

Participants are usually:• Vocational school students• Apprentices• Learners in technical or professional education

The internship is not random. It is aligned with the learner’s study profile (hospitality, mechanics, business, ICT, catering, and more) and based on clearly defined learning objectives.

VET Internship vs. Simple Work Experience

At first glance, a VET internship and standard work experience may seem similar — both take place in a company. However, their structure and purpose are very different.

VET Internship (Erasmus+) | Simple Work ExperienceStructured learning objectives | No formal learning planLinked to study programme | Not necessarily linked to educationMonitored by tutors/mentors | Limited or no supervisionLearning outcomes documented | No formal certificationPart of an Erasmus+ project | Independent experience

In short, an Erasmus VET internship is not just about performing tasks — it is about learning through real professional situations.

Why Choose a VET Internship Abroad?

Adding the international dimension makes the experience even more valuable.

Working in a different country allows learners to:• Use a foreign language in real professional contexts• Adapt to new working methods• Understand different workplace cultures• Become more independent and responsible

This combination of vocational training and international exposure is one of the core strengths of Erasmus VET mobility.

The Educational Value of an Erasmus+ VET Internship

An Erasmus internship for VET learners is designed around educational value, not only professional exposure.

Students develop:

Technical SkillsDirectly related to their professional sector.

Soft SkillsSuch as:• Communication• Teamwork• Problem-solving• Time management

Personal GrowthLiving abroad helps learners build:• Autonomy• Adaptability• Confidence

These competences are essential for entering the labour market and are often difficult to develop solely in the classroom.

How Is Learning Structured During the Internship?

A VET internship abroad is organised within an Erasmus+ project, which ensures quality and structure.

This means:• Learning objectives are defined before departure• Tasks at the host company support those objectives• Mentors and tutors monitor the experience• Learning outcomes are documented at the end of the mobility

The internship is therefore an integral part of the student’s educational pathway — not separate from it.

Conclusion: More Than Just Working Abroad

A VET internship abroad is not simply “working in another country.” It is a structured learning experience where vocational training, professional practice, and international exposure come together.

Through Erasmus VET mobility, students gain not only sector-specific competences, but also the language, social, and personal skills needed for their future careers.