Physical Therapy/ Pre-PT Internships

IMA has unique opportunities for pre-physical therapy students, graduate physical therapy program students, and licensed PTs to work with and be guided by dedicated physical therapists, physicians, PAs, and other healthcare professionals.

We work with an extensive network of public and private health facilities, enabling our interns and volunteers to apply their skills to enhance the well-being of the communities they serve while expanding their practical experience.

IMA focuses on improving the health of underserved individuals in the regions where we operate through initiatives such as medical clinics, public health education programs, and first responder and first aid training. Our comprehensive approach to care involves collaborating with local leaders to create ethical and sustainable community-driven projects.

Physical Therapy interns will collaborate with experienced physical therapists in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. They will assist in different tasks such as:

Interns will also observe and participate in physical therapy sessions. This program, developed in partnership with leading physical therapy schools, combines practical experience with educational modules. It will deepen their understanding of physical therapy practices, enhance their clinical skills, and provide exposure to global health challenges related to rehabilitation.

As a non-profit, IMA reinvests in the communities we serve. We offer a structured environment supported by local and U.S.-based resources and comprehensive training on safety and eye care best practices. You can learn more about the reasons to join IMA in our global health initiatives.

IMA’s Physical Therapy internship program philosophy is centered around three main goals: clinical experience, cultural competency, and global health competency. Clinical experience is essential to preparing for a healthcare career, and exposure to different cultures and healthcare systems is critical to becoming a well-rounded healthcare professional.

Understanding global health systems and healthcare policy is essential for physical therapists in diverse settings. In IMA’s Physical Therapy Internship, we incorporate these perspectives to help students recognize the challenges that impact access to rehabilitative care and develop thoughtful, culturally informed solutions.

Our Physical Therapy Internship emphasizes hands-on learning through clinical shadowing and supervised rotations. Interns engage directly in patient care, observe rehabilitation techniques, and assist local therapists in improving mobility, pain management, and functional outcomes.

Every Physical Therapy Intern has the opportunity to live and work within a new cultural context. Through daily life and professional practice, interns develop the cultural awareness to connect with patients from all backgrounds and build strong therapeutic relationships.

Interns gain firsthand exposure to how physical therapy services are delivered within international healthcare systems. By collaborating with local rehab centers and hospitals, you’ll deepen your understanding of public health structures and the role of allied health professionals in underserved regions.

From your first pre-departure call to your final day in the clinic, our team ensures you’re never on your own. IMA provides dedicated support staff to help you feel safe, prepared, and confident throughout your Physical Therapy Internship.

At the end of the internship, you’ll receive a formal certificate of completion and a personalized letter of recommendation highlighting your clinical contributions and skills. These documents are excellent assets when applying to graduate programs or future job opportunities in physical therapy.

IMA’s Physical Therapy Internships offer interns an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience, deepen their understanding of physical therapy, and develop a global perspective on healthcare.

Our programs are designed to prepare interns for successful careers in physical therapy, providing a comprehensive learning experience tailored to each intern's unique needs and goals. Our Physical Therapy Internships include:

At International Medical Aid (IMA), we design our Physical Therapy internships to support your academic goals, professional development, and global health understanding while delivering meaningful contributions to global communities.

In this internship, you’ll gain hands-on experience in real healthcare environments where physical therapy plays a crucial role in patient rehabilitation. Whether you’re supporting mobility recovery, pain management, or treatment plans for chronic conditions, your work will be guided and supervised by experienced local providers.

Every internship is customized to reflect your interests, education level, and career plans. Whether you're exploring PT as a future profession or preparing for graduate school, we’ll match you with a placement that builds your confidence and skill set in a relevant and rewarding way.

Our team is with you every step of the way—from your first application questions to your return home. We provide detailed pre-departure preparation, airport pickup, safe housing near your placement, and in-country guidance so you can focus on getting the most out of your internship.

Living and working abroad allows you to understand how physical therapy is practiced across different cultures and healthcare systems. This immersion builds critical cross-cultural communication skills that will serve you well in graduate school and your future physical therapy career.

We only partner with clinics and providers that prioritize responsible, ethical care. We focus on making a sustainable impact, ensuring that your internship supports local needs and contributes to long-term health outcomes without displacing local workers or compromising standards.

Your Physical Therapy Internship may occur in a hospital, rehabilitation center, community health program, or specialized clinic. Placement opportunities vary by country and time of year, but all offer meaningful clinical exposure relevant to your professional goals.

Interns stay in modern, secure housing close to their placement sites. Housing includes Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, access to clean water, and 24/7 security and staff support. Meals are provided, and interns can expect a balance of comfort and cultural authenticity.

In addition to your clinical work, we also offer optional travel excursions led by professional guides. From safaris in Kenya to rainforest hikes in Colombia and cultural tours in Peru, these add-on adventures let you explore the beauty and culture of your host country in a safe and organized way.

As an intern, your work directly supports patient outcomes in communities that often lack adequate rehabilitation care. You’ll leave with a better understanding of global health disparities and more confidence in your ability to contribute meaningfully to the physical therapy profession.

We help our interns prepare for what’s next by offering graduate school application support, customized letters of recommendation, and guidance on program selection based on your internship performance and professional goals.

To be considered for the Physical Therapy Internship Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Once you have submitted the requirements mentioned below, kindly follow the process below:

To prepare for your Physical Therapy Internship abroad, make the most of it. Here is the guide:

International Medical Aid offers a Physiotherapy Internship in various clinical settings. This program allows interns to gain hands‑on experience and develop specialized skills in areas such as sports medicine, neurology, and pediatric care. Find out more about the open opportunities in International Medical Aid through this link.