The University of South Africa (UNISA) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, which includes numerous roles across various departments and regions.
Key Deadlines & Details
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Closing Date: February 6 – February 9, 2026 (varies by specific advertisement/department).
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Assumption of Duty: March 1, 2026.
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Stipend: Approximately R127,576.00 per annum.
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Duration: 12 months (non-renewable).
I have compiled a comprehensive guide for you to apply online, including the specific requirements, necessary documentation, and regional contact details.
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Match your motivation: Ensure your one-page letter specifically mentions the department you are applying to and how your UNISA qualification prepared you for it.
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Check your Student Number: The application form requires an accurate UNISA student number; double-check this to avoid automatic disqualification.
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Regional Preference: While you can apply for positions in different provinces, note that relocation is at your own expense.
Would you like me to help draft a template for your motivational letter based on a specific department?
UNISA 2026 Internship Programme Application Guide
UNISA invites unemployed South African graduates to apply for 12-month internship opportunities. The programme is designed to provide practical work experience to graduates with no prior formal experience.
1. Eligibility Requirements
To be considered, you must meet the following criteria:
- Unemployed South African Citizen.
- UNISA Graduate: Must have completed a UNISA qualification (NQF Level 6 or higher).
- Age Limit: Not older than 35 years.
- Experience: Must have NO formal work experience in the field of application.
- Previous UNISA Interns: Applicants previously appointed at UNISA or any other organization as an intern are generally not considered.
2. Required Documentation (PDF Format Only)
Prepare the following documents. Note that certifications must be not older than 6 months:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- One-page motivational letter.
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate.
- Certified Academic Record.
- Certified copy of UNISA Completed Qualification.
Important: Do not upload pictures (JPEG/PNG) or password-protected files. Only PDF is accepted.
3. How to Apply Online
- Find the Advert: Access the official UNISA Vacancies Portal.
- Select a Position: Identify the specific reference number (e.g.,
REF/ECR/DSAR/NM) that matches your qualification. - Submit Application: Use the official Microsoft Forms link provided in the PDF job advertisement.
- Note: You must be signed in with your UNISA student account to access the form.
- Individual Submissions: If you are applying for multiple positions, you must submit a separate application form for each reference number.
4. Available Regional Opportunities (Examples)
| Region/Campus | Qualification Field | Reference Example |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng (Muckleneuk) | Admin / Office Management / Public Admin | REF/GR/SC/01/2026 |
| Eastern Cape | Accounting / Admin Management | REF/ECR/DSAR/NM |
| Western Cape | Psychology / Industrial Psychology | REF/WC/PS/02/2026 |
| Florida (CAES) | Agriculture / Horticulture / Electrical Eng | REF/CAES/LHC/DM |
5. Selection Process
- Shortlisting: Correspondence is limited to shortlisted candidates.
- Interviews: Candidates must be available for interviews on dates determined by UNISA.
- Background Checks: Successful candidates will undergo vetting.
- Outcome: If you do not hear from UNISA within 30 days of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Disclaimer: This document is for informational purposes. Always verify the latest closing dates and reference numbers on the official UNISA website.
