The University of South Africa has officially opened applications for the highly anticipated UNISA Internships 2026 programme. The internship initiative is designed to provide unemployed graduates with valuable workplace experience while helping them develop practical skills in a professional environment.
The 12-month internship programme offers successful applicants the opportunity to work in different university departments while receiving a competitive annual stipend. Graduates from various provinces across South Africa are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
About the UNISA Internships 2026 Programme
The UNISA Internship Programme is aimed at unemployed South African graduates who have completed qualifications through UNISA at NQF Level 6 or higher. The programme focuses on empowering graduates with hands-on work exposure that can improve their future employment opportunities.
Internships will run for a period of 12 months and do not guarantee permanent employment after completion. However, the experience gained can significantly strengthen a graduate’s CV and career prospects. UNISA has also encouraged persons living with disabilities to apply. Recruitment will align with the university’s Employment Equity Plan.
Internship Locations
The internship programme is available across several South African provinces, including:
- Eastern Cape
- Free State
- Gauteng
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Limpopo
- Mpumalanga
- North West
- Northern Cape
- Western Cape
Minimum Requirements for UNISA Internships 2026
Applicants must meet the following requirements before applying:
- Be an unemployed South African citizen
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Hold a completed UNISA qualification
- Possess an NQF Level 6 qualification or higher
- Have no previous work experience
- Not have worked at UNISA or another organisation before
- Submit separate applications for different internship positions
- Include the correct reference number and student number during application
Failure to meet these conditions may lead to disqualification during the screening process.
Available Internship Opportunity
One of the advertised internship placements is within the Finance: Budget and Cost Management department located in Muckleneuk.
Required Qualifications
Applicants should possess one of the following qualifications:
- Bachelor of Science in Computing
- BCom in Quantitative Management
- BCom in Economics
- Bachelor of Accounting Sciences
- Generic BCom with Decision Sciences or Economics majors
UNISA confirmed that two internship positions are available under this placement.
Skills and Competencies Required
Candidates applying for the internship programme should demonstrate strong workplace and communication skills.
Key competencies include:
- Computer literacy
- Good communication skills
- Strong interpersonal abilities
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Problem-solving skills
- Teamwork abilities
- Professional telephone etiquette
- Good written and verbal English
- Ability to work under pressure
These skills may improve a candidate’s chances during the shortlisting process.
UNISA Internship Stipend 2026
Successful interns will receive an annual stipend of R127,576 during the internship period. Although the internship is temporary, it provides graduates with an excellent opportunity to gain professional experience and improve employability in South Africa’s competitive job market.
Important Dates
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Internship Duration | 12 Months |
| Assumption of Duty | 1 June 2026 |
| Closing Date | 22 May 2026 |
Applicants are advised to submit applications before 23:59 on the closing date to avoid missing the opportunity.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must upload the following documents in PDF format:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page motivational letter
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Academic record
- Certified copy of completed UNISA qualification
UNISA does not accept image files or password-protected documents.
How to Apply for UNISA Internships 2026
Applications must be submitted online through the official UNISA internship application portal. Only UNISA students and graduates can access the application system. Applicants should ensure that they:
- Use the correct reference number
- Include their UNISA student number
- Upload all required documents
- Apply separately for multiple internship opportunities
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews, while successful applicants may undergo background verification checks.
Important Notes for Applicants
Before applying, candidates should keep the following in mind:
- Relocation expenses will be the responsibility of the applicant
- Late applications may not be considered
- Incomplete applications may be rejected
- Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days should consider their application unsuccessful
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for UNISA Internships 2026?
Only unemployed South African citizens who have completed UNISA qualifications can apply.
What is the age requirement?
Applicants must be 35 years old or younger.
Does UNISA accept applicants with work experience?
No. The programme specifically targets graduates without prior work experience.
How much is the internship stipend?
Successful candidates will receive an annual stipend of R127,576.
