The University of South Africa has opened applications for its 2026 internship programme, offering more than 150 paid internship positions across multiple campuses and regions, including Gauteng. The programme affects unemployed UNISA graduates under the age of 35 who are seeking structured workplace exposure after completing their studies. This development matters now as graduate unemployment remains high, particularly in Gauteng, and the application window closes in early February 2026.
According to the university, the internships form part of a 12-month learning programme aimed at bridging the gap between academic study and entry into the labour market.
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What the UNISA Internship Programme Is
The UNISA internship programme is a fixed-term arrangement offered to unemployed South African citizens who have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF level 6 or higher.
The university said the programme is not an employment contract and does not guarantee permanent placement. Instead, it provides supervised work exposure and skills development within the institution.
The 2026 intake includes positions across administration, finance, information technology, engineering, counselling, records governance, library services, and institutional support functions.
Who Qualifies for the 2026 Intake?
UNISA has confirmed strict eligibility criteria for applicants.
According to the internship call, applicants 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 previously appointed at UNISA or any other organisation
The university stated that preference will be given to persons living with disabilities, in line with its Employment Equity Plan.
Stipend and Contract Terms
All successful interns will receive a standardised stipend.
Key terms include:
- Annual stipend of R127 576
- Contract duration of 12 months
- Assumption of duty scheduled for 1 March 2026
- Internship agreement rather than permanent employment
UNISA noted that relocation costs are not covered and that interns are responsible for their own accommodation and travel arrangements.
Where The Internships are Located
Internship positions are spread across several provinces, with Gauteng accounting for the largest share.
Gauteng
Posts are based at multiple campuses and service centres, including Muckleneuk, Sunnyside, Florida, Ekurhuleni, Vaal, Midrand, and Lenasia. Departments include ICT services, finance, counselling and career development, facilities management, institutional intelligence, privacy and records governance, and student administration.
KwaZulu Natal
Positions are available in Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Richards Bay, and Newcastle, covering student administration, finance, counselling, library services, and registrar support.
Eastern Cape
Internships are offered in East London, Gqeberha, and Mthatha, with roles across administration, ICT, counselling, library services, and deputy registrar offices.
Western Cape
Posts are based in the Cape Town and Parow areas, particularly within counselling, communication science, and student administration.
Northern regions
Opportunities are also available in Polokwane, Mbombela, Giyani, and Middelburg, primarily in student administration, facilities management, and library services.
Fields of Study Targeted
UNISA said the programme targets graduates whose qualifications align with operational needs.
Priority 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
Each internship position is linked to a specific qualification requirement.
How The application Process Works
Applications are submitted through UNISA’s internal internship system, which is accessible only to UNISA students and graduates.
According to the university, applicants must:
- Submit separate applications for each position
- Indicate the correct reference number and student number
- Upload all required documents in the prescribed format
Incomplete applications or submissions that do not meet requirements will not be considered.
Closing Dates and Timelines
The main closing date for applications is 6 February 2026, with some positions allowing submissions until 9 February 2026.
UNISA said shortlisted candidates can expect feedback within 30 days after the closing date. Interviews may be conducted either in person or virtually.
Applicants who are not contacted within this period should consider their applications unsuccessful.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
For Gauteng graduates, the internship programme represents one of the largest structured graduate intakes currently open for 2026. With a significant number of positions based in the province, competition is expected to be high.
The programme offers institutional work exposure within South Africa’s largest distance learning university, but it remains time-limited and does not convert automatically into permanent employment. For many graduates, it provides the practical experience often required for entry-level roles.
The concentration of posts in Gauteng also reflects the province’s role as a national hub for higher education administration and academic support services.
Employment Equity and Inclusion
UNISA stated that it values diversity, inclusion, and universal access. Preference will be given to persons living with disabilities, and appointments will be made in line with the institution’s Employment Equity Plan.
Applicants are encouraged to disclose relevant information during the application process to enable appropriate consideration.
FAQs
Who can apply for the UNISA internships?
Only unemployed South African citizens who completed their qualifications at UNISA qualify.
Can graduates from other universities apply?
No. The programme is exclusive to UNISA graduates.
Can applicants apply for multiple positions?
Yes. Each position requires a separate application.
Is the internship permanent employment?
No. The internship is a fixed 12-month agreement.
What if I am not contacted?
If no response is received within 30 days after the closing date, the application should be considered unsuccessful.
What Happens Next
After applications close, UNISA will complete shortlisting and verification processes. Interviews and background checks will follow for shortlisted candidates.
Successful interns are expected to assume duty on 1 March 2026. The university stated that it is under no obligation to fill all advertised posts and that appointments depend on operational requirements and available resources.
