UNISA Internship Programme 2026: Paid 12-Month Opportunities for Unemployed Graduates
The University of South Africa , UNISA has officially opened applications for its UNISA Internship Programme 2026 offering unemployed UNISA graduates a valuable opportunity to gain structured workplace experience across multiple academic and administrative departments.
This 12-month paid internship, starting on 1 March 2026, is aimed at young South Africans who have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher and have no prior work experience. With a competitive annual stipend of R127,576, the programme plays a critical role in supporting graduate employability while strengthening institutional capacity.
Applications close on 6 February 2026, and late submissions will not be considered.
Overview of the UNISA Internship Programme 2026
The UNISA Internship Programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional employment. Interns are placed within specific UNISA departments aligned to their field of study, where they receive mentoring, skills development, and practical exposure in a real working environment.
The programme prioritises:
- Youth development
- Graduate employability
- Employment equity and inclusion
- Support for persons living with disabilities
Internships are offered across Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Gauteng, and other UNISA regional offices.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria Explained
To qualify for the UNISA Internships 2026, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be unemployed
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or above
- Have no prior work experience
- Have never been employed or appointed at UNISA or any other organisation
- Apply only for positions aligned to their completed field of study
- Accurately provide their UNISA student number and position reference number
Students living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, and preference will be given in line with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan.
Internship Duration, Stipend and Start Date
- Duration: 12 months
- Start Date: 01 March 2026
- Stipend: R127,576 per annum
- Contract Type: Internship Agreement
- Relocation Costs: At applicant’s own expense
This stipend provides meaningful financial support while interns gain hands-on experience in their respective disciplines.
Opportunities & Resources:
Available Internship Positions and Minimum Qualifications
UNISA is offering internships across multiple departments. Below is a summary of key opportunities:
ICT and Systems Integration (Eastern Cape)
- Qualification: National Diploma or Degree in ICT or Computer Science
- Department: Student Administration and System Integration
Administrative and Business Management (East London & Cape Town)
- Qualifications:
- Administrative Management
- Office Administration
- Business Management
- Public Administration
- Bachelor of Administration
Finance, Accounting and Supply Chain
- Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Finance, Accounting or Supply Chain Management
- Location: Eastern Cape and Western Cape
Library and Information Services
- Qualification:
- Bachelor of Information Science
- National Diploma in Information Science
- Locations: Gqeberha, East London, Pretoria
Communication and Marketing
- Qualification:
- Communication Science
- Public Relations
- Marketing
- Location: Gauteng (Muckleneuk, Pretoria)
Life Sciences (Laboratory-Based Internships)
- Qualifications:
- BSc Life Sciences (Microbiology or Molecular Biology)
- Honours in Physiology or Molecular Biology
- Location: Florida Campus
All positions require the applicant to be a UNISA graduate in the specified field.
Core Competencies UNISA Is Looking For
Successful applicants should demonstrate the following skills and attributes:
- Computer literacy (Microsoft Office 365 and internet usage)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Professional telephone etiquette
- Ability to work under supervision and in teams
- Attention to detail and strong organisational skills
- Time management and ability to multitask
- Problem-solving ability
- Confidentiality and ethical conduct
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
These competencies are essential for performing effectively in a professional university environment.
How to Apply for UNISA Internships 2026
Applications must be submitted online via the official UNISA internship portal, which is accessible only to UNISA students and graduates.
Required Documents (PDF format only):
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page motivational letter explaining why you should be considered
- Certified copy of South African ID (not older than 6 months)
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified academic record
- Certified copy of completed UNISA qualification
Important:
- No pictures or password-protected documents are accepted
- Applications for multiple positions must be submitted separately
- All applications must be submitted before 23:59 on 6 February 2026
Selection Process and Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Interviews will be scheduled by UNISA
- Background checks will be conducted for successful candidates
- Applicants must be available on interview dates
- If not contacted within 30 days after closing, consider the application unsuccessful
Why the UNISA Internship Programme Matters
Graduate unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges. UNISA’s internship programme directly addresses this issue by offering structured, paid opportunities that allow graduates to:
- Gain real workplace experience
- Improve employability
- Build professional networks
- Apply academic knowledge in practical settings
For many participants, this internship serves as a stepping stone into permanent employment within higher education, public institutions, or the private sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I studied at another university?
No. Only UNISA graduates are eligible.
Can I apply if I have work experience?
No. Applicants must have no prior work experience.
Is this internship open to postgraduate graduates?
Yes, as long as the qualification is NQF Level 6 or higher and completed at UNISA.
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes, but each application must be submitted separately.
Is the internship paid?
Yes. The annual stipend is R127,576.
Closing Date Reminder
The UNISA Internship Programme 2026 closes on 6 February 2026. With limited placements and high demand, eligible UNISA graduates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
This programme offers more than just experience—it provides a structured pathway into the world of work while supporting inclusive growth and youth development in South Africa.
