The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced an exciting Graduate Internship Programme for 2025/2026, offering unemployed graduates an opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience within one of the country’s most important public institutions. This 24-month Workplace Integrated Learning (WIL) Internship Programme is funded by the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) and aims to equip young graduates with practical skills that will enhance their employability and professional development.
The programme forms part of South Africa’s broader National Human Resource Development Strategy and National Skills Development Strategy, which focus on building a skilled workforce while providing meaningful work exposure to young professionals. Successful candidates will work in different SAPS departments across several provinces, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Closing Date: 13 March 2026
Location: Various Provinces, South Africa
Stipend: Determined by SASSETA
Available Internship Opportunities
1. Social Work Intern (16 Posts)
Location: SAPS Academies in Eastern Cape, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng
Reference Numbers: HRD INT 1-8/2025/26
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (NQF Level 6 or higher)
- Registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) with proof of paid membership for 2025/2026
- Qualification recorded on the National Learners’ Records Database (NLRD)
- Basic computer literacy (knowledge of MS Word and PowerPoint will be advantageous)
Key Responsibilities
- Provide occupational social work services to SAPS employees
- Implement preventative and restorative intervention programmes
- Promote employee health and wellbeing
- Work under the supervision of a qualified Social Worker
2. Psychologist / Trauma Counsellor Intern (13 Posts)
Location: SAPS Academies nationwide
Reference Numbers: HRD INT 9-16/2025/26
Minimum Requirements
- Honours Degree or B Psych Degree in Psychology
- Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Psychometrist or Registered Counsellor
- Valid proof of HPCSA registration for 2025/2026
Key Responsibilities
- Provide counselling and trauma debriefing services
- Facilitate Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) programmes
- Offer psychological support to SAPS members and their families
- Conduct organisational diagnosis and wellness interventions
3. Crime Intelligence Analyst Intern (8 Posts)
Location: Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, North West, and Western Cape
Reference Numbers: CI/FS 1 – CI/WC 8/2025/26
Minimum Requirements
- National Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or higher) in one of the following fields:
- Sociology
- Criminology
- Political Science
Key Responsibilities
- Analyse crime intelligence data
- Conduct threat and risk assessments
- Compile intelligence and analytical reports to support policing operations
4. Internal Audit Intern (9 Posts)
Location: All Provinces Reference Numbers: IA INT 01-09/2025/26
Minimum Requirements
- Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or higher) in:
- Internal Audit
- BCom Accounting
- Financial Management
- Cost and Management Accounting
- IT / Information Systems
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct risk assessments and internal audit activities
- Assist in executing audit programmes
- Compile and review audit reports
- Support audit processes using the TeamMate Audit System
5. Risk Management Practitioner Intern (2 Posts)
Location: Head Office, Pretoria
Reference Number: RIM INT 01/2025/26
Minimum Requirements
- Diploma or Degree in Risk Management, Internal Auditing, Finance, or Business Continuity Management
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with implementing the organisational Risk Management Framework
- Support Business Continuity Planning initiatives
- Facilitate risk assessments and reporting processes
6. Integrity Management Practitioner Intern (2 Posts)
Location: Head Office, Pretoria
Reference Number: RIM INT 02/2025/26
Minimum Requirements
- Diploma or Degree in:
- Public Administration
- Human Resource Management
- Law
- Risk Management
- Forensic Investigation
- Policing
Key Responsibilities
- Process financial disclosure forms and ethics applications
- Assist with integrity assessments and investigations
- Compile investigation and compliance reports
- Support ethics awareness and compliance programmes
Generic Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35 years
- Have Grade 12 (Matric)
- Be currently unemployed
- Have never participated in a similar internship programme
- Have no criminal record
- Apply for a maximum of three posts only
- Submit a separate application for each reference number
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Official SAPS Graduate Recruitment Application Form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of the following documents:
- South African ID
- Matric Certificate
- Relevant qualifications and academic transcripts
Important:
- Applications sent by email or fax will NOT be accepted.
- Applications must be posted or hand-delivered to the relevant SAPS offices.
- Late applications will not be considered.
Important Programme Information
- The internship will run for 24 months.
- Participation does not guarantee permanent employment within SAPS.
- Shortlisted candidates will undergo:
- Fingerprint screening
- Interviews
- Security vetting and background checks
How to Apply
Applicants must download and complete the official SAPS application form before submitting their application. Download the application form and apply before the closing date: 13 March 2026.
This internship programme presents a valuable opportunity for graduates who want to gain professional experience, contribute to public safety, and build careers within the policing and security sector. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing this important opportunity. Download Application form here
