What’s the job?
UNISA is opening a graduate internship program for 2026, giving fresh‑grad students a chance to work at one of Africa’s biggest and most respected open‑distance learning universities. The program is a fixed‑term role that lets you learn real‑world skills while helping the university grow.
Why this internship matters
South Africa still struggles with high youth unemployment. Even graduates with good degrees often find it hard to land a job. An internship like UNISA’s gives you the hands‑on experience that employers look for and lets you build a resume that stands out.
You’ll learn to:
- work in a professional setting
- collaborate with teams
- use administrative and tech tools
- manage time and report on projects
These skills can help you find a job in either the public or private sector afterward.
What you’ll do
Interns can be placed in many departments, such as:
- Academic and student support – help with teaching plans, student services, and curriculum work
- Administration and management – office duties, records, and public administration tasks
- Finance and economics – accounting, budgeting, and economic research
- ICT – help maintain software, manage data systems, and support tech projects
- Human resources – manage employee relations, training, and workforce planning
- Media and marketing – write, design, and run social media and other communications
You will get a mentor to guide you, a chance to join everyday projects, and workshops that build your skills.
Who can apply?
To keep things fair, UNISA has clear rules:
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| South African citizen | You must hold a valid ID |
| Unemployed | You can’t be working full time |
| Relevant qualification | A diploma, degree, or post‑grad from an accredited school |
| Age | Usually a recent grad, no set upper limit but under 35 is typical |
| First‑time intern | You haven’t done a UNISA internship before |
You must also show a computer‑friendly resume, a copy of your ID, your qualification certificates, and academic transcripts.
What UNISA looks for
Both the papers on your diploma and the way you act matter. They want interns who:
- can use a computer and basic research tools
- write and speak clearly
- manage their own time well
On the personality side, they want:
- a willingness to learn
- professionalism
- attention to detail
- the ability to work solo and with others
These qualities match the values of a good university.
What to expect
- Mentoring – a supervisor will check in with you regularly.
- Hands‑on work – you’ll help on real projects, from data entry to research.
- Professional training – you’ll attend orientation, skill workshops, and performance reviews.
- Stipend – you get a monthly allowance to cover living costs. It’s not a full salary, but it helps you get by while you learn.
The internship usually lasts a few months. The exact length and stipend can change, so check the official page for details.
How to apply
- Go to the UNISA careers site.
- Fill out the online application.
- Upload your CV, ID, certificates, and transcripts.
- Submit before the closing date: 9 February 2026, 23:59 S.A. time.
Apply for the UNISA Graduate Internship Programme 2026 here
(link: https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/About/Employment-at-Unisa/Jobs-and-careers?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Make sure every piece of information is accurate; missing documents can cause you to lose your spot.
Tips for a strong application
- Customize your CV – Highlight projects that match the internship area.
- Show tech skills – List any software or coding you know.
- Include volunteer work – Experience outside of school counts.
- Submit early – The program attracts many applicants; early applications reduce technical glitches.
- Use official UNISA channels – Avoid shady offers or unpaid “job” posts.
What the internship can do for your career
Graduates who finish the program often get:
- A recognised work experience line on their CV
- A professional reference from a UNISA staff member
- Better job prospects in many fields
- A deeper understanding of how higher education works
Some interns later land permanent jobs, contract positions, or pursue further study.
Protect yourself from scams
UNISA never asks for money to apply. Be wary of:
- Emails that request payment
- Social media posts that look like job offers but aren’t on the official UNISA site
- Unverified email addresses that aren’t from the university
Always double‑check with the official UNISA careers page.
Quick FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I apply if I went to another university? | Yes, as long as your qualification is relevant and from a recognised institution. |
| Is this a permanent job? | No, it’s a short internship to build skills. |
| Can I apply for several positions? | Follow the instructions in each job ad. |
Wrap‑up
The 2026 UNISA Graduate Internship Programme is a solid step for anyone looking to turn a university diploma into real work experience. It gives you a taste of professional life, helps you grow, and can open doors after you finish. Make sure to prepare a clean application, keep it on time, and follow the official route.
Good luck, and remember: the first step is the hardest, but once you’re inside, you’ll learn a lot and gain a lot of confidence.
