University of South Africa invites unemployed South African graduates to apply for the 2026 Internship Programme aimed at providing workplace exposure and professional development opportunities to qualifying candidates.

The 12-month internship programme is targeted at graduates who completed qualifications through UNISA and are seeking practical workplace experience within a professional finance and budget management environment. The programme offers graduates an opportunity to strengthen workplace skills while gaining valuable exposure in one of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions.

Applications are currently open for internship positions within the Finance: Budget and Cost Management division based at the Muckleneuk Campus in Pretoria.

UNISA Internship Programme Overview

The internship programme is available to unemployed South African citizens who completed a qualification equivalent to NQF Level 6 or higher through UNISA. Successful candidates will participate in a 12-month internship agreement intended to provide workplace training and industry exposure.

The internship programme is not a permanent employment contract but serves as an opportunity for graduates to develop practical experience and improve future employability.

Graduates with no previous work experience are encouraged to submit applications before the closing date.

Internship Position Details

Position Reference Number

• REF/FIN/BCM/KM

Department

• Finance: Budget and Cost Management

Location

• Muckleneuk, Pretoria

Number of Positions Available

• 2

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must possess one of the following completed UNISA qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Computing
• BCom in Quantitative Management with Decision Sciences major
• BCom in Economics with Financial Modelling stream
• Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Financial Accounting or Management Accounting
• BCom General qualification with majors in Decision Sciences or Economics

Only applicants who completed qualifications in the listed study fields will be considered during the selection process.

Important Application Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements before applying:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be unemployed
• Must have completed a UNISA qualification equivalent to NQF Level 6 or higher
• Must not be older than 35 years
• Must have no previous work experience
• Must not have previously participated in a UNISA internship or internship programme at another organisation
• Must submit separate applications for multiple positions
• Must accurately indicate the position reference number and UNISA student number on the application portal

Graduates living with disabilities are encouraged to apply for the programme.

Applicants who fail to meet the minimum requirements may not be considered for the internship opportunity.

Skills and Competencies Required

The university is seeking graduates with strong communication abilities, professionalism, and the ability to work in a structured office environment. Candidates should be willing to learn, adapt quickly, and work under supervision while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

Required competencies include:

• Computer literacy in Microsoft Office 365 and internet applications
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Professional telephone etiquette
• Ability to work effectively within a team
• Ability to take initiative under supervision
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to prioritise tasks efficiently
• Good time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
• Proficiency in English both verbally and in writing
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Strong sense of responsibility, punctuality, and commitment

These competencies are important within the finance and budget management environment where organisational skills and accuracy are essential.

Internship Duration and Stipend

Successful candidates will enter into a 12-month internship agreement commencing on 01 June 2026.

Internship Duration

• 12 Months

Starting Date

• 01 June 2026

Annual Stipend

• R127 576.00 per annum

The stipend will support interns throughout the internship period while they gain practical workplace exposure.

Documents Required for Application

Applicants must upload all supporting documents during the online application process. Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Required documents include:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• One-page motivational letter explaining why consideration should be given for the internship
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of Matric Certificate
• Certified academic record
• Certified copy of completed UNISA qualification

Certified documents must not be older than six months.

Only PDF documents will be accepted during the application process. Pictures, screenshots, and password-protected files will not be accepted.

Closing Date

Closing Date for Applications: 22 May 2026

Applications must be submitted before 23:59 on the closing date.

Graduates are encouraged to submit applications early to avoid delays or technical difficulties during the submission process.

Selection Process

Only shortlisted candidates will receive communication regarding interviews and further recruitment processes. Shortlisted applicants will be expected to avail themselves on interview dates determined by the university.

Background verification checks will also be conducted on successful candidates before final placement.

Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.

Important Information for Applicants

Applicants should note the following important conditions:

• Relocation costs will be for the applicant’s own account
• The internship does not guarantee permanent employment
• Only UNISA graduates in the specified study fields will be considered
• Applications submitted after the deadline may not be reviewed
• Incomplete applications may be disqualified

The internship programme presents an opportunity for graduates interested in finance, economics, accounting, computing, and decision sciences to gain valuable workplace experience within a professional university environment.

Successful candidates will gain exposure to financial systems, budgeting procedures, administrative operations, institutional reporting processes, and professional workplace standards that can strengthen future career opportunities in both public and private sector organisations.

How to Apply for the UNISA Internship Programme 2026

Applicants should ensure the following before submitting applications:

• The correct reference number is included
• Accurate personal details are provided
• All required documents are uploaded in PDF format
• Applications are submitted before the closing deadline

The link will only allow access to Unisa Students and graduates. To apply please click the following
link: Application form for internship programme 2026 – Fill out form

Late applications may not be considered.