Nursing Internship in Sri Lanka
Join a professional nursing internship in the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.
At a glance:
- Kandy, Sri Lanka
- 2–6 weeks (min 2 weeks)
- Accommodation & Meals Included
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Overview:
Gain international clinical exposure with a Nursing Internship at a teaching hospital. This is Sri Lanka’s second-largest and most advanced medical facility. With more than 2,700 beds, 75 wards, and a wide range of specialist units, this national referral center offers a unique opportunity to observe diverse cases and treatment protocols in one of South Asia’s premier teaching hospitals. Ideal for nursing students and graduates, this program builds clinical confidence while sharpening key skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and adaptability in a cross-cultural healthcare setting.
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Internship Details:
Hosted at a tertiary referral center affiliated with the University of Peradeniya Faculty of Medicine and the Post Graduate Institute of Medicine, this internship provides unparalleled access to real-world nursing practice. The hospital serves as a training hub for undergraduate and postgraduate medical professionals, offering exposure to specialized units including Pediatrics, Gynecology, Neurology, Cardiology, Orthopedics, Psychiatry, Oncology, ICU and more.
As an intern, you’ll shadow experienced nurses and specialists across wards, clinics, and theaters, observing patient care in a resource-conscious environment. While hands-on work is limited and subject to supervisor approval, the breadth of clinical cases and interdisciplinary teamwork offers a powerful learning opportunity.
This internship not only builds clinical awareness but also cultivates global health perspectives, intercultural competence and problem-solving skills. This is preparing you for a career in nursing that is both technically proficient and socially responsive. Completing the program culminates in a clinical appointment certificate which is a valuable addition to your professional profile.
As an intern, you’ll rotate across departments such as:
- Pediatrics
- Gynecology
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU)
- Intensive Care Units (Medical, Pediatric, SICU, Neurology)
- Orthopedics
- Psychiatry
- Oncology
- Cardiology & Cardiothoracic
- Dentistry
- Physiotherapy
- Urology & Nephrology
Interns observe in wards, clinics and operating theaters, depending on departmental availability. All placements are observation-based, with limited hands-on involvement, subject to supervisor approval. Department changes are possible but must be requested formally after completing one week in the current assignment.
This program is ideal for nursing students seeking global healthcare experience in a resource-conscious setting while developing their clinical awareness and professional adaptability.
Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
Type: Observation-based nursing internship abroad
Duration: 2–6 weeks
Start Dates: Every Monday, year-round (2025 & 2026)
Working Days: Monday to Friday
Working Hours: Determined by hospital staff and department placement
Supervision: Department specialists and the Post Graduate Medical Institute
Experience Level: Observation (limited hands-on tasks only if approved)
Participant Requirements:
Minimum Age: 20
Duration: Minimum 2 weeks
Education: Nursing or nursing-related field of study
Language: Basic English (higher proficiency recommended)
Documents Required (in hard copy at arrival):
- CV
- Passport copy
- CRB check
- University letter
- Letter of intent
- Bio form
- University insurance certificate
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Programme Highlights:
- Observe patient care across multiple hospital departments
- Witness protocols in wards, clinics, and operating theaters
- Gain insight into nursing in a developing healthcare system
- Learn from experienced professionals in specialized fields
- Receive a clinical appointment certificate upon successful completion
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What’s Included:
- Internship placement at Hospital
- Structured rotation and supervision by hospital staff
- Accommodation (shared room)
- Two meals per day on weekdays; brunch and dinner on weekends
- Airport pickup during regular hours
- Orientation in Kandy before placement
- 24/7 in-country support team
- Clinical appointment certificate
- English-speaking supervision, with local language support where applicable
Not included: Flights, visa, insurance, weekday lunch, personal expenses, optional tours or cultural activities.
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A Day in the Life:
- Breakfast at accommodation
- Depart for Hospital
- Observation in assigned department (wards, clinics, or theaters)
- Participation in departmental briefings or workshops, if available
- Return to accommodation for dinner
Schedules vary depending on hospital needs and department assignments.
Why this internship?
This internship not only builds clinical awareness but also cultivates global health perspectives, intercultural competence and problem-solving skills. This is preparing you for a career in nursing that is both technically proficient and socially responsive. Completing the program culminates in a clinical appointment certificate which is a valuable addition to your professional profile.
What you’ll gain through this professional internship experience:
- Critical Thinking: Observe clinical decision-making in diverse departments
- Collaboration: Work alongside nurses, doctors and fellow interns in a multicultural hospital environment
- Communication: Strengthen professional and intercultural communication skills
- Adaptability: Adjust to a resource-conscious healthcare setting
- Resilience: Learn to thrive in challenging clinical environments
- Reflective Practice: Record and evaluate your learning through daily hospital experiences
- Global Awareness: Develop understanding of healthcare delivery in a developing region
What our interns say
"This experience has been incredibly valuable. Not just as a person, but especially as a medical student. The doctors and nurses have been so welcoming and eager to teach. I’ve felt completely safe, supported, and inspired every single day."
– Jared, USA
Living in Kandy
Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage city, blends cultural heritage and modern life. When not at the hospital, you can explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic, visit tea plantations, stroll along Kandy Lake, or take day trips into Sri Lanka’s lush hill country. The city provides a perfect setting to balance professional growth with cultural immersion.
Ready to apply?
Advance your nursing career with this nursing internship in Sri Lanka. Observe clinical care in a leading teaching hospital, develop essential 21st Century Skills, and gain an international perspective that will set you apart in the healthcare field.