Multiple SA-based internships are available through UNISA in 2026 following the University of South Africa’s official release of its latest 12-month Internship Programme. This nationwide call targets unemployed South African graduates who completed a UNISA qualification and are seeking structured workplace exposure to kick-start their careers.UNISA internships 2026 South Africa
The 2026 UNISA Internship Programme spans multiple provinces, campuses, and professional disciplines, making it one of the most inclusive graduate development opportunities currently available in South Africa. From administration and finance to information technology, engineering, psychology, communications, and library sciences, the programme addresses one of the biggest challenges facing young graduates today: lack of work experience.
UNISA has confirmed that all internships are non-renewable, structured around learning agreements rather than employment contracts, and include a competitive annual stipend of R127,576.
Why UNISA Internships Matter for Graduates
Graduate unemployment remains a critical challenge in South Africa. Many employers require work experience, yet most graduates struggle to access their first opportunity. UNISA’s internship programme is specifically designed to bridge this gap.
What sets these internships apart is their alignment with academic qualifications, structured mentorship, and exposure to real institutional operations across higher education, finance, governance, and student services.
For graduates who studied at UNISA and are seeking a credible entry point into the labour market, this programme offers practical experience backed by one of Africa’s largest universities.
UNISA Internship Programme 2026: Quick Overview
- Organisation: University of South Africa (UNISA)
- Programme Type: Internship Programme
- Duration: 12 months (non-renewable)
- Assumption of Duty: 01 March 2026
- Stipend: R127,576 per annum
- Who Can Apply: Unemployed South African citizens
- Qualification Requirement: UNISA qualification (NQF Level 6 or higher)
- Age Limit: 35 years or younger
- Experience Required: None
- Disability Inclusion: Encouraged, with preference in line with equity
- Application Method: Online via UNISA internship application system
- Closing Dates:
- 06 February 2026
- 09 February 2026
Important Conditions Applicants Must Know
Before applying, candidates should take note of the following conditions outlined by UNISA:
- Applicants must apply separately for each post using the correct reference number
- Relocation costs are the responsibility of the applicant
- Background and qualification verification checks will be conducted
- Incorrect or incomplete applications will not be considered
- Previous UNISA interns are not eligible to apply again
Minimum Requirements: Who Qualifies
To be considered for any UNISA internship in 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be an unemployed South African citizen
- Hold a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Have no prior work experience in the field applied for
- Have never participated in an internship at UNISA or another organisation
- Apply using the correct reference number and UNISA student number
Full List of UNISA Internships Available in 2026
Below is a consolidated and clearly structured list of the official UNISA internship opportunities, categorised by region and function.
A) Student Administration, Library, Communications & Academic Support Internships
Eastern Cape, Western Cape & Gauteng
- Student Administration & System Integration – Academic & Technology Support
- Location: Eastern Cape
- Qualification: ICT or Computer Science
- Student Administration & System Integration (Administration Stream)
- Location: East London
- Qualification: Administration or Business-related fields
- CAES Laboratories – Microbiology / Molecular Biology
- Location: Florida
- Qualification: BSc Life Sciences
- CAES Laboratories – Physiology / Molecular Biology (Honours)
- Location: Florida
- Qualification: BSc Honours
- Library and Information Services
- Location: Gqeberha
- Qualification: Information Science
- Deputy Registrar – Finance & Supply Chain
- Location: East London
- Qualification: Finance, Accounting, Supply Chain
- Deputy Registrar – Administration
- Location: Cape Town
- Qualification: Administration or Business Management
- Library and Information Services
- Location: East London
- Qualification: Information Science
- Communication Science Internship
- Location: Parow
- Qualification: Communication Science
- Regional Service Centre Administration
- Location: Gqeberha
- Qualification: Administrative Management
- Library Cataloguing Division
- Location: Pretoria (Muckleneuk)
- Qualification: Library & Information Science
- Institutional Development – Alumni Relations
- Location: Pretoria (Muckleneuk)
- Qualification: Communication, Marketing, Accounting
- UNISA Foundation & Alumni Relations
- Location: Pretoria (Muckleneuk)
- Qualification: Communication or Marketing
B) KwaZulu-Natal Region Internships
Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Richards Bay & Newcastle
- Regional Director’s Office – Administration
- Student Administration & Financial Aid – Multiple posts
- Facilitation of Learning Registrar
- Recorder
- Operations & Finance
- Library Unit
- Student Administration & Systems Integration (Engineering)
- Corporate Communication & Marketing
- Counselling & Career Development
C) Gauteng, Western Cape & National Specialised Internships
- Finance – Expenditure & Asset Management
- Finance – Compliance & Governance
- Finance – Salary Administration
- Finance – Funds Administration
- Finance – Creditors Management
- Career Guidance & Counselling – Sunnyside
- Ekurhuleni Campus – Administration / Accounting
- Sunnyside Campus – Business Administration
- Counselling & Career Development – Western Cape
- Counselling & Career Development – Gauteng
- Records Governance & Privacy
- Governance of Privacy
- UNISA Art Gallery & Department of Arts and Music
How to Apply for UNISA Internships 2026
Applications must be submitted online only using the official UNISA internship application system. Each internship advert includes:
- A unique reference number
- Specific qualification requirements
- Campus or regional placement details
Applicants must submit separate applications for each position they wish to be considered for.
Why This Programme Boosts Employability
Completing a UNISA internship provides graduates with:
- Verified institutional work experience
- Exposure to public sector operations
- Professional mentorship
- Improved employability in government and private sectors
- A stronger CV aligned with industry expectations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the UNISA internship a permanent job?
No. It is a 12-month internship agreement, not a permanent employment contract.
Can I apply if I studied at another university?
No. Only graduates with a UNISA qualification qualify.
Is work experience required?
No. These internships are designed for graduates without experience.
Can I apply for more than one internship?
Yes, but each application must be submitted separately.
Do disabled applicants qualify?
Yes. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged, and preference may be applied in line with equity policies.
Final Thoughts
Multiple SA-based internships are available through UNISA in 2026, offering unemployed graduates a rare opportunity to gain structured, meaningful workplace experience across South Africa. With a solid stipend, national reach, and diverse career fields, this programme stands out as one of the most impactful graduate initiatives for the year ahead.
Graduates who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply early, ensure accuracy, and take full advantage of this opportunity to transition from academic study into the professional world.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
