Princeton in Asia website

Princeton in Asia (PiA) offers service-oriented fellowships in the fields of education, media/journalism, international development (NGOs) and business, with a majority of fellows working as English teachers at universities and high schools. PiA fellowships are open to graduates or graduating seniors from all accredited colleges and universities.

Application Requirements: 

 The basic prerequisite for Princeton in Asia placement is a bachelor's degree. In addition:

  • TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) experience is required prior to leaving for Asia for all English teaching positions. At least 20 hours of TESL preparation either through a short course (such as that offered at Princeton) or through volunteer tutoring will fulfill this requirement. Tutoring can be accomplished at most universities. Check with colleges in your area to see if a TESL course is offered or contact a local Literary Volunteers program.
  • English teaching positions require native English speaking ability.
  • Asian language ability is NOT a prerequisite for most teaching positions. Non-teaching positions typically require some language skills.
  • All applicants MUST be able to come to Princeton for a person interview in January, and all applicants receiving placements MUST attend the weekend orientation held in late May on the Princeton University campus.

PiA is a Princeton-based program and a large percentage of applications come from Princeton students. But for any specific internship opening, PiA is looking for the best possible candidate regardless of their undergraduate institution.

Applicants should delineate their country(ies) of preference. A certain degree of flexibility may increase an applicant's change of placement. Visit PiA's website for specific program details.

Benefits: 

In addition to local salary and housing, Princeton in Asia provides:

  • An orientation program including travel, health, visa and packing information, as well as cultural and current affairs background on PiA locations
  • Group medical insurance for all fellows in need of coverage and who qualify for PiA's international travel plan, including emergency medical evacuation coverage
  • Selectively awarded language and cultural grants
  • Assistance in student loan deferments (letters to student loan agencies)

For costs Fellows are asked to assume, please visit Princeton in Asia's FAQ page.