CIPC Graduate Internship 2026 – A 24‑month Chance to Work in South Africa’s IP Department
If you’re a South African graduate who’s finished a university degree or a national diploma but haven’t yet found a job, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) is offering a 24‑month internship that will help you jump into the world of intellectual property. Two positions are open for people who want to learn about copyright law, enforcement and how the government protects creative work. You’ll earn a monthly stipend of R12,000, work in Pretoria at the Sunnyside Office, and gain real experience that can open doors for future careers in law, business or tech.
What Is the Internship About?
The CIPC Graduate Internship 2026 is a program created by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. Its goal is to give unemployed graduates a chance to work in a government setting, especially in the area of IP copyright and enforcement. You’ll be part of a team that handles copyright complaints, investigates infringement, and helps companies register trademarks and protect their ideas.
Key Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 24 months |
| Location | Sunnyside Office, Pretoria, Gauteng |
| Stipend | R12,000 per month |
| Positions | 2 spots for IP copyright & enforcement interns |
Who Can Apply?
Educational background
- Bachelor of Commerce
- National Diploma in Business Management, International Trade, Criminology, Information Technology, Marketing, or Supply Chain Management
Age and status
- Must be 18‑35 years old
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed and a recent graduate
- Applicants who have not done any internship before get a priority
Why Join a Government Internship?
Working at CIPC lets you see how a country manages rules for companies and intellectual property. You’ll learn about:
- How copyright is protected in South Africa
- How to investigate and enforce IP laws
- How to do research on new IP issues
- Everyday office skills that are useful everywhere
These skills can help you get a job in many fields, from law firms to tech startups to international trade agencies.
How to Apply
Go to the portal
Submit your application online at Apply now. Do not send paper copies or emails.Upload three documents
- A current CV that shows your studies and any projects related to IP or law.
- A clear copy of your South African ID for citizenship check.
- Your degree or diploma certificate. If it’s foreign, have it verified by SAQA first.
Check the sections – Put each file in the right folder on the site. Wrong uploads mean automatic rejection.
Deadline – Finish everything by 5 February 2026. No extensions are offered.
Interviews – If shortlisted, be ready to go to an interview at the time and place the CIPC tells you.
If you run into trouble logging in, call the recruitment office on 087 743 7074, 087 743 7075 or 087 743 7197.
What to Expect Once You’re Inside
- A formal agreement that sets out your job duties and the program rules.
- A supportive team that shows you how to handle copyright cases and work with other government departments.
- Regular training that covers the law and the day‑to‑day tasks of IP enforcement.
You’ll finish the internship with a clear understanding of the legal and administrative side of creative rights—a skill set that is in high demand.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Show relevance – Highlight any coursework or projects that relate to copyright or law.
- Learn about CIPC – Browse their website to know what they do and how they help protect IP in South Africa.
- Prepare for questions – Think about why you want this role, how your degree fits, and what you hope to do after the internship.
- Double‑check your documents – Make sure your ID, certificates and CV are up to date and accurate.
If You Don’t Get In
Only two spots are available, so competition can be tough. If you’re not selected, consider other internship programs, government job boards or private companies that also work with IP or related fields. Keep applying elsewhere—there are many ways to start a career.
The Big Picture
A government internship like this gives you a behind‑the‑scenes view of how laws are enforced and how the country protects its creative work. It also shows future employers that you can work in a regulated environment and that you’re serious about your career.
Ready to Apply?
The CIPC Graduate Internship 2026 is a chance to earn a steady stipend, learn a niche skill set, and build a network that could last a lifetime. Don’t wait past 5 February 2026. Click below to send your application and start a journey into the world of intellectual property.
Apply now for a future where you can make a real difference in protecting creative ideas and inventions.
