Kick‑start your career with UNISA Internships 2026
If you just finished a degree at the University of South Africa (UNISA) and are ready to jump into the job market, UNISA’s 2026 internship programme could be the perfect stepping stone. The university is offering more than 150 paid positions across the country, each lasting a full year and paying an annual stipend of R127,576. The application window closes on February 9, 2026, so gather your documents and apply before the deadline.
What Are UNISA Internships 2026?
UNISA’s internship scheme is a one‑year paid learning experience aimed at unemployed South African graduates who earned a diploma or a degree (NQF level 6 or above) from UNISA. The jobs cover a wide range of fields – from finance and IT to engineering, psychology, library services and administration – and are spread across Gauteng, KwaZulu‑Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and the northern provinces.
Who Can Apply?
- Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen and currently unemployed.
- Education: A UNISA qualification at NQF level 6 or higher (National Diploma or Degree).
- Age: 35 years or younger.
- Experience: No previous paid job experience is required – this is for first‑time job seekers.
- Previous Employment: You should not have worked at UNISA or any other company before.
- Priority: Graduates with a disability are given special consideration.
Which Degrees Are Accepted?
| Field | Typical Qualifications |
|---|---|
| Business & Administration | Admin Management, Public Administration, Business Management, etc. |
| Finance & Accounting | Accounting Sciences diploma, BCom Accounting, BCom Finance, etc. |
| Information Technology | National Diploma IT, BSc Computer Science, Data Science, Cybersecurity, etc. |
| Psychology & Counseling | BA Psychology, Honours in Psychology, etc. |
| Engineering | Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Building Engineering. |
| Library & Information Sciences | Bachelor of Information Science, Archives and Records Management. |
| Other Areas | Communication, Marketing, Environmental Science, Agriculture, Social Work, Art History. |
Where Are the Positions?
Gauteng – Pretoria’s Muckleneuk campus hosts most of the roles, especially in Finance (18 posts), ICT (45+ posts), Library, and Facilities Management. Other campuses (Sunnyside, Ekurhuleni, Florida, Vaal, Midrand, Lenasia) also list positions in counseling, engineering, and student services.
KwaZulu‑Natal – 36 jobs in Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Richards Bay, and Newcastle, covering student administration, finance, library, and communications.
Eastern Cape – Around 25 openings in East London, Port Elizabeth, and Mthatha for student admin, library services, and counseling.
Western Cape – Opportunities in Cape Town and Parow for student admin and communications.
Northern Regions – Positions in Polokwane, Nelspruit, Giyani, and Middleburg focusing on student administration and facilities.
Stipend and Perks
- Annual stipend: R127,576 (≈ R10,631 per month).
- Contract length: 12 months, non‑renewable.
- Start date: March 1, 2026.
- Benefits: Hands‑on experience, mentorship, a chance to build a professional CV, and networking across South Africa’s biggest distance‑learning university.
Note: This is an internship agreement, not a permanent job. You must cover any relocation costs yourself.
How to Apply
- Choose the job – Find the position reference number that matches your degree.
- Prepare your documents – In PDF only:
- Updated CV
- One‑page motivational letter
- Certified ID, matric, academic record, and UNISA qualification (all not older than 6 months)
- Use your correct UNISA student number
- Submit online – Go to the UNISA internship portal, enter the reference number and your student number, then upload all PDFs.
- Before the deadline – Apply by February 6, 2026 (23:59) or, for selected posts, by February 9, 2026.
Apply here [Apply here]
Tips for a Strong Application
- Motivational Letter – Keep it one page, state the job you want, explain why you’re interested, list your relevant skills, and show enthusiasm. Check for spelling and grammar.
- CV – Highlight academic achievements, relevant courses, volunteer work, and computer skills (Office 365). Make it tidy and easy to read.
- Match your degree – Only apply where your qualification fits the job’s requirements (e.g., finance roles need accounting degrees, ICT roles need IT degrees).
What Happens Next?
After you submit, HR will review all applications. If you’re shortlisted, you’ll be called for an interview – either in person or online. Expect a response within 30 days of the closing date. After a successful background check, you’ll sign the internship contract and start on March 1, 2026.
Contact for Questions
| Role | Contact | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| General enquiries | Mulanga Munyaradzi | 012 433 9542 |
| KZN region | Kagiso Maphoto | 012 429 3446 |
| Gauteng positions | Bulelwa Daile | 012 429 2353 |
| ICT roles | R Mavasa | 012 429 6265 |
| Northern regions | CH Ndlovu | 012 429 3075 |
Always mention the job reference number when you call.
FAQs
- Can I use a degree from another university? No – you must have finished at UNISA.
- What if I already have work experience? You’re not eligible.
- Can I apply for more than one job? Yes – submit each separately with the correct reference.
- What if I’m 36? The age limit is 35 or younger.
- Will I need to move? Some positions may require relocation; you must pay for it yourself.
- Is it a permanent job? No – it’s a 12‑month internship.
- What after the internship? The experience can help you land a full‑time role elsewhere.
Why Go For a UNISA Internship?
- Reputable name – UNISA is Africa’s largest distance learning university.
- Diverse work setting – Experience different regions and cultures across South Africa.
- Networking – Meet managers, mentors, and other interns.
- Skill building – Apply classroom knowledge in real projects.
- Support for people with disabilities – The programme prioritises inclusive hiring.
- Structured learning – You’ll work under supervision, not just do random tasks.
Special Focus for Applicants With Disabilities
UNISA wants to make sure people with disabilities can join. If you have a disability, mention it in your application and note any accommodations you need. Many roles specifically recommend graduates with disabilities.
Highlighted Opportunities
- ICT Academy of Applied Technologies – 10 posts for tech graduates.
- CAES Laboratory & Horticulture – 10 posts for agriculture and horticulture students.
- KZN Student Admin & Financial Aid – 18 posts across KwaZulu‑Natal.
- Facilities Management – 23 posts for engineers and environmental science grads.
- Finance Department – 18+ posts for accounting and finance graduates.
Quick Checklist Before You Hit “Apply”
✅ South African citizen
✅ Unemployed, no prior employment
✅ ≤35 years old
✅ UNISA degree at NQF 6+
✅ Matching qualification for the job
✅ All PDFs ready and recent (≤6 months)
✅ Updated CV and motivation letter
✅ Know your student number and reference number
✅ Understand stipend, contract length, and start date
✅ Ready to work full‑time for a year
✅ Open to relocation if needed
Don’t Miss Out
With 150+ positions across the country, UNISA’s 2026 internship programme is one of the biggest graduate chances in South Africa. Whether you want to work in finance, IT, engineering, psychology, or library services, there’s likely a role that fits your background.
Prepare your paperwork, write a clear motivation letter, and apply by February 9. This paid internship could be the launchpad for your future career.
Apply now [Apply now]
Good luck – and remember, the next step could be just one click away!
