South African graduates struggling to get their first real work experience now have a powerful opportunity.
The University of South Africa (UNISA), in partnership with the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET), has officially opened applications for the UNISA & FASSET Internship Programme 2026.
This 12-month structured internship is designed to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and real workplace experience in the finance and audit sectors.
If you are a UNISA graduate with no work experience, this could be your breakthrough.
Quick Overview
- Programme: UNISA & FASSET Internship Programme 2026
- Duration: 12 months
- Start Date: 01 April 2026
- Closing Date: 06 March 2026
- Stipend: R127 576 per annum
- Locations: Pretoria (Muckleneuk & Sunnyside) and Johannesburg (Florida)
- Eligibility: UNISA graduates (NQF Level 6 or higher)
- Age Requirement: 35 years or younger
- Experience Required: None
Persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Why This Internship Matters
Many graduates face a frustrating reality:
“You need experience to get a job — but you need a job to get experience.”
This programme exists specifically to solve that challenge.
It forms part of a broader graduate employment and financial sector transformation initiative, giving young professionals practical exposure in institutional finance operations.
Internship Fields Available
Placements are within finance and audit departments, including:
- Financial Governance & Compliance
- Budget and Cost Management
- Student Funding Finance
- Revenue and Treasury Management
- Expenditure Management
- Internal Audit
- Forensic Investigation
These roles provide real exposure to financial systems, compliance processes, and auditing frameworks — ideal preparation for accounting and auditing careers.
QUICK LINKS:
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet all the following criteria:
Basic Eligibility
- South African citizen
- Unemployed
- 35 years old or younger
- Completed a UNISA qualification (NQF Level 6 or higher)
- No prior work experience
- Must not have participated in a FASSET-funded programme before
- Must not have previously been employed at UNISA
Required Qualifications
Depending on placement, qualifications may include:
- BCom Accounting Science
- Management Accounting
- Diploma or Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
- Internal Auditing qualifications
- Forensic Auditing / Investigation degrees
Skills & Competencies Required
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Computer literacy (Microsoft Office 365)
- Strong communication skills
- Professional telephone etiquette
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Ability to work under pressure
- Problem-solving skills
- Confidentiality awareness
- Teamwork and initiative
This programme looks for professional readiness — not just academic performance.
What You’ll Receive
Although this is not permanent employment, the benefits are significant:
- R127 576 annual stipend
- 12 months verified workplace experience
- Finance-sector exposure
- Professional mentorship
- Strong CV-building experience
- Increased employability
For many graduates, one structured internship can completely change their career trajectory.
Documents Required
Applicants must upload:
- Updated CV
- One-page motivational letter
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Academic record
- Proof of completed UNISA qualification
Important Rules:
- Documents must be certified within 3 months
- Only PDF files accepted
- No images or password-protected documents
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official UNISA internship portal.
Important tips:
- Include the correct reference number
- Add your UNISA student number
- Submit separate applications for multiple positions
- Apply before 23:59 on 06 March 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Career Opportunities After This Internship
Completing this programme can lead to:
Entry-Level Roles
- Junior Accountant
- Audit Assistant
- Finance Administrator
- Compliance Officer
Professional Growth Paths
- SAICA trainee accountant route
- Internal auditing certifications
- Forensic investigation careers
- Treasury or budgeting specialist roles
With one year of formal workplace exposure, graduates become significantly more competitive in the job market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a 12-month internship agreement.
2. Do I need work experience?
No. This programme is designed for graduates with no prior experience.
3. Can non-UNISA graduates apply?
No. The internship is strictly for UNISA graduates.
4. Will relocation costs be covered?
No. Relocation is at your own expense.
5. When will successful candidates be contacted?
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
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Mbalizuke Nkosi
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.
With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.
The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.