The 12‑Month Internship Programme 2026 at the University of South Africa (UNISA)
The University of South Africa is looking for fresh graduates who don’t yet have any work experience to join its 12‑month internship programme in 2026. The internship will begin on 1 March 2026 and ends after a year. Each intern receives a yearly stipend of R127 576. The positions are in several cities: Pretoria (Muckleneuk and Florida), Johannesburg, Polokwane and Nelspruit.
About the Programme
UNISA is the biggest distance‑learning university in Africa. This internship is a chance to learn what happens in a real office or on a construction site, while still getting a paycheck. The aim is to give recent graduates practical experience that lines up with the courses they completed at UNISA.
Who Can Apply?
- You must be a South African citizen who is currently unemployed.
- Only UNISA graduates with a qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher are eligible.
- You should not have worked in the field you want to study.
- Applicants must be 35 years old or younger.
- If you have already worked for UNISA or another company, you cannot apply.
- Each open position requires a separate application – don’t combine them.
- Your application must include the position reference number and your UNISA student number.
Open Positions (2026)
1. Quality Assurance and Enhancement
Reference: QAE1/P/01
Location: Pretoria (Muckleneuk, Florida), Johannesburg
Qualifications Needed:
- Diploma or BCom in Internal Auditing
- Advanced Diploma in Accounting Science
- Bachelor of Accounting Science
Open Slots: 2
2. Facilities Management – Maintenance (Mechanical / Electrical)
References: FMM1/P/04 & FMM2/P/04
Location: Pretoria (Muckleneuk)
Qualifications Needed:
- Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering
- Diploma or Degree in Electrical Engineering
Open Slots: 8 (4 for each reference)
3. Facilities Management – Maintenance (Civil / Building)
Reference: FMM3/P/02
Location: Pretoria (Muckleneuk)
Qualifications Needed:
- Degree or National Diploma in Civil Engineering or Building
Open Slots: 2
4. Facilities Management – Support Services (Waste Management & Recycling)
Reference: FMSS/P/02
Location: Pretoria (Muckleneuk)
Qualifications Needed:
- Bachelor of Environmental Science
- Bachelor of Environmental Management
Open Slots: 2
5. Facilities Management – Project Management
Reference: FMPM/P/13
Locations: Pretoria (Muckleneuk), Polokwane, Nelspruit
Qualifications Needed:
- Diploma or Degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Environmental Management
Open Slots: 9
What the Interns Will Need
Skills that help you succeed
- Comfortable using Microsoft Office 365 and searching online
- Good at talking and writing with others
- Able to work in a group and follow a supervisor’s guidance
- Pays attention to small details and takes initiative
- Can finish tasks quickly even when there’s a tight deadline
- Speaks and writes English well
- Solves problems, manages time, and can juggle more than one task
- Keeps information private when required
- Shows dedication, responsibility and arrives on time
Documents You Must Send
All files must be PDF only (no pictures or password‑protected files).
- Detailed CV
- One‑page motivational letter
- Certified copy of your South African ID (no older than 6 months)
- Certified Matric Certificate (NQF Level 4)
- Academic record
- Proof of your UNISA qualification
Missing any document or sending it after 23:59 on 9 February 2026 will mean your application is ignored.
How to Apply
The application link is available only for UNISA students and graduates.
Apply for the UNISA Internship Programme 2026 – fill out the online form
Make sure to submit everything before the deadline. Relocation costs will be paid by the applicant.
Equality and Fairness
UNISA welcomes applicants with disabilities and follows its Employment Equity Plan. Only the people who make it to the next step will be contacted. If you haven’t heard back within 30 days after the deadline, you can treat your application as unsuccessful.
If you’re ready to jump into the world of professional work, this internship can help you start on the right foot.
Check the main UNISA page for more information about the internship and other opportunities.