CSIR invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Finance Portfolio Internship vacancies.
The closing date for applications is 22 December 2025.
What the Internship Is All About
If you just finished a diploma or a university degree in accounting or finance, this program can give you a real‑world work experience that many employers want.
The internship is located in Pretoria and will let you jump straight into the day‑to‑day work that keeps a big research organisation running.
A Quick Snapshot
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) |
| Programme | Finance Portfolio Internship Programme 2026 |
| Location | Pretoria, South Africa |
| Field | Accounting & Finance |
| Who Should Apply | Recent graduates (no students) |
| Qualification | 3‑year diploma or degree in Accounting or Finance |
| Closing Date | 22 December 2025 |
| Type | Practical, workplace‑based learning |
What You’ll Do Every Day
Process Financial Transactions
- Make sure each entry is correct, follows the rules, and is recorded in the system.
Reconcile Accounts
- Spot mistakes, fix them, and confirm that everything lines up for the right period.
Manage Asset Accounting
- Prepare paperwork for new assets, journal entries, and cost allocation.
Answer Finance Questions
- Deal with queries from different parts of the organisation and know when to ask for help.
Keep Records for Audits
- Store journals, transfers, disposals, and supporting documents so the audit team can check them easily.
Help with Month‑End & Year‑End
- Assist in closing books, meeting deadlines, and making accurate reports.
Verify Physical Assets
- Scan barcodes, visit sites, and match the physical items to the records.
Support Audit Readiness
- Keep documents organised and ready for internal or external audits.
What You Need to Be Eligible
Education
- A 3‑year diploma or degree in Accounting or Finance.
Technical Skills
- Basic accounting concepts.
- Introductory knowledge of VAT.
- Comfortable with Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
- Able to use Outlook and write professional emails.
Professional Traits
- Careful with details.
- Able to solve problems quickly.
- Good at managing time and planning.
- Organized and can keep track of many tasks.
Personal Qualities
- Arrives on time and can be trusted.
- Works well even when pressure builds.
- Adapts easily to new situations.
- Communicates clearly, both in writing and speaking.
- Builds good relationships with teammates.
- Shows a strong work ethic.
Work Style
- Even though the job is in Pretoria, you must be able to work independently and stay disciplined when needed.
How to Apply
Go to the official CSIR website or click this link:
Apply for the CSIR Finance Portfolio Internship Programme 2026Fill out the application form and attach your CV and cover letter.
Send it before the closing date: 22 December 2025.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight any accounting or finance modules you studied.
- Show off your Excel and reconciliation skills.
- Give real examples that prove you’re detail‑oriented and responsible.
- Apply early—don’t wait until the last day.
What Happens After the Internship?
The experience you gain can open doors to many roles:
- Junior Accountant
- Financial Officer
- Asset Accountant
- Management Accounting Trainee
- Internal Audit Trainee
- Public Finance Graduate Programs
- Articles (SAICA, SAIPA, CIMA) depending on your qualifications
This internship can also help you prepare for professional certification exams and for a permanent job in finance.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the internship paid? | Most CSIR internships offer a stipend. The exact amount will be shared during the recruitment process. |
| Can students apply? | No, this internship is only for graduates who have finished a three‑year qualification. |
| What if I studied a related finance course? | Yes, as long as your qualification is in accounting or finance and matches the role. |
| Is this a permanent job? | No, it is a temporary internship, but it boosts your employability significantly. |
| Where is it located? | In Pretoria. |
| When does the application close? | 22 December 2025. |
Important Notes
- This post is not written by CSIR, so the final decision about hiring is theirs.
- Provide honest, accurate information on your application.
- Late applications may not be considered.
- Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a spot.
- Always double‑check the details on the official CSIR page.
