UNISA has opened more than 150 paid internship opportunities for 2026, offering unemployed graduates a 12-month programme designed to provide structured workplace experience across multiple disciplines.
UNISA Announces Major Internship Intake for 2026
The University of South Africa has officially opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, unveiling more than 150 paid internship positions across various regions and institutional divisions. The programme is aimed at unemployed UNISA graduates under the age of 35 who are seeking structured workplace exposure after completing their studies.
This intake arrives at a critical time, as graduate unemployment remains high across the country. Through this initiative, the university aims to support young graduates by helping them transition from academic study into practical work environments aligned with their qualifications.
The internship programme runs for a fixed period of 12 months and forms part of UNISA’s broader skills development and employability strategy.
What the UNISA Internship Programme Involves
The UNISA Internship Programme is a structured, non-permanent work exposure initiative offered to unemployed South African graduates who have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher.
The university has emphasised that the programme does not constitute permanent employment and does not guarantee absorption into full-time roles. Instead, it focuses on supervised learning, professional development, and practical skills acquisition within a real institutional environment.
For the 2026 intake, internship placements span a wide range of operational and academic support areas, ensuring that graduates are exposed to meaningful work aligned with their fields of study.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
UNISA has outlined clear eligibility requirements for the 2026 internship intake. Applicants must meet all criteria to be considered.
To qualify, candidates must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or above
- Have no prior formal work experience
- Not have been previously appointed at UNISA or any other organisation
The university has confirmed that preference will be given to persons living with disabilities, in line with its Employment Equity Plan.
Internship Duration and Financial Support
All successful interns will be appointed on a fixed-term internship agreement for a period of 12 months. The programme offers a standardised stipend to support interns during their placement.
Key conditions include:
- An annual stipend of R127 576
- A 12-month contract period
- An expected start date aligned with institutional operational planning
UNISA has noted that relocation, accommodation, and travel costs remain the responsibility of the intern.
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Where the Internship Positions Are Based
Internship opportunities are distributed across multiple regions, with placements linked to UNISA campuses, service centres, and administrative offices.
A significant number of positions are allocated to Gauteng, while additional placements are available across KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, the Western Cape, and selected northern regions. These roles span departments such as student administration, finance, ICT services, counselling, library services, facilities management, institutional support, and governance functions.
The geographic spread reflects UNISA’s national footprint and the operational needs of its regional structures.
Fields of Study Targeted
UNISA has confirmed that each internship position is linked to specific qualification requirements. The programme prioritises graduates whose academic backgrounds align with institutional operations.
Targeted fields include:
- Accounting and finance
- Business and public administration
- Information technology and computer science
- Engineering disciplines
- Psychology and industrial psychology
- Library and information science
- Records and archives management
- Communication and marketing
- Environmental science and agriculture
This alignment ensures that interns gain relevant experience that strengthens their employability beyond the programme.
Employment Equity and Inclusion
The university has reiterated its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and universal access. Appointments will be made in accordance with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan, with specific consideration given to persons living with disabilities.
Applicants are encouraged to provide accurate information during the application process to enable appropriate assessment and support where required.
How to Apply
The link will only allow access to Unisa Students and graduates. To apply please click the following
link: Application form for Internship Program 2026 – Fill out form
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 06 February 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the UNISA Internship Programme?
Only unemployed South African citizens who have completed their qualifications at UNISA are eligible.
Can graduates from other universities apply?
No. The programme is exclusive to UNISA graduates.
Is the internship permanent employment?
No. The programme is a fixed 12-month internship and does not guarantee permanent placement.
Can applicants apply for more than one position?
Yes. Each internship position must be applied for separately.
What happens if I am not contacted?
Applicants who are not contacted within 30 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Conclusion
The UNISA Internship Programme 2026 represents one of the largest structured graduate internship intakes currently available, offering more than 150 paid opportunities across multiple disciplines. While the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, it provides valuable institutional work exposure that many graduates need to enter the labour market. For unemployed UNISA graduates seeking practical experience within a recognised academic institution, this internship offers a meaningful step toward long-term career development.
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