UNISA & FASSET 2026 Internship Programme Opens – Apply Today for Future Careers
UNISA is looking for suitable young people to apply for their Internship Programme 2026 opportunities. The closing date for applications is 6 March 2026.
What the internship is all about
This 12‑month programme is a bridge between university books and real‑world finance work. You’ll be paid, learn real skills, and get a foot in the door for future jobs in accounting or audit.
- Pay: R127 576 per year – that’s about R10 600 a month.
- Start: 1 April 2026.
- Locations: Pretoria (Muckleneuk & Sunnyside) and Johannesburg (Florida).
- Who it’s for: Any UNISA graduate (NQF Level 6 or higher) who is 35 years or younger, unemployed, and a South African citizen. No previous work or FASSET internship experience allowed.
If you live with a disability, the programme specifically encourages you to apply – a great chance for inclusive learning.
Fields you could land in
Most posts are in finance and audit departments. Pick the one that tickles your interest:
- Financial Governance & Compliance
- Budget & Cost Management
- Student Funding Finance
- Revenue & Treasury Management
- Expenditure Management
- Internal Audit
- Forensic Investigation (Internal Audit)
Most roles are based in Pretoria, with a few in Johannesburg.
What you’ll do day‑to‑day
- Join a team of accountants or auditors and shadow real projects.
- Prepare reports, budgets, or audit logs under supervision.
- Attend training sessions and learn software like Microsoft Office 365.
- Participate in meetings, ask questions, and help solve problems.
It’s a hands‑on learning experience, not a desk job.
Eligibility checklist
| Requirement | Must be true for you |
|---|---|
| South African citizen | ✔ |
| Unemployed | ✔ |
| 35 yrs or younger | ✔ |
| Completed a UNISA qualification (NQF 6+) | ✔ |
| No prior work experience | ✔ |
| Not already done a FASSET programme | ✔ |
| Not previously employed at UNISA or other organisation | ✔ |
Qualifications that fit the job
- BCom Accounting Science
- Accounting Sciences (Management Accounting)
- Diploma or Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
- Internal Auditing qualifications
- Forensic Auditing / Forensic Investigation degrees
Competencies that will make you stand out
- Basic computer skills (Office 365).
- Clear writing and speaking.
- Phone etiquette – you’ll be on calls.
- Detail‑oriented and can keep a secret.
- Able to work under pressure and manage time.
- Problem‑solver and team‑player.
These are the soft skills that employers value just as much as the book knowledge.
What the internship gives you
| Benefit | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Stipend | R127 576 a year keeps your wallet happy while you learn. |
| Real workplace exposure | Employers love seeing hands‑on experience on a CV. |
| Finance‑sector insight | You’ll understand how big organisations manage money. |
| Mentorship | A senior will guide you and give career advice. |
| CV boost | One year of experience can set you apart from other applicants. |
| Employability | After the internship, you can jump straight into junior accountant, audit assistant, or compliance officer roles. |
Documents you’ll need
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – keep it tidy, no PDFs of scanned images.
- One‑page motivational letter – explain why you want this internship.
- Certified copy of your South African ID (within 3 months).
- Certified matric certificate (within 3 months).
- Academic record (transcript) – certified.
- Proof of your UNISA qualification – certified.
Important: All files must be PDF, no images or password‑protected.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Visit the UNISA internship portal (official site).
- Create or log into your account.
- Enter the reference number: UNISA & FASSET Internships2026.
- Fill in your UNISA student number.
- Attach each required PDF file.
- Submit separate applications if you’re targeting more than one field.
- Double‑check everything, then hit Submit before 23:59 on 6 March 2026.
Tip: Apply early (ideally within the first week) to avoid a slow portal and give yourself time to tweak the motivation letter.
Standing out in your application
- Tailor your motivational letter to the finance sector and public‑sector impact.
- Highlight any coursework or projects that show your passion for numbers.
- Show that you’re eager to learn – maybe mention a recent finance webinar you attended.
- Keep the tone professional but approachable.
- Proofread for typos – a clean document signals attention to detail.
After the internship – career paths
| Entry‑level role | Professional path |
|---|---|
| Junior Accountant | SAICA trainee accountant route |
| Audit Assistant | Internal auditing certification |
| Finance Administrator | Treasury or budgeting specialist |
| Compliance Officer | Forensic investigation careers |
A year of real work experience can be a massive boost when you’re job‑hunting next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need work experience?
No, that’s part of why it exists.
Can someone who didn’t study at UNISA apply?
No – it’s exclusively for UNISA graduates.
Will relocation costs be covered?
No, you’ll need to sort that yourself if you’re moving.
When will I hear back?
Only shortlisted candidates get contacted.
Apply right now
If you’re ready to step into the world of finance and get paid for learning, apply for the UNISA & FASSET Internship Programme 2026 here before it closes.
Remember, the clock is ticking – the portal closes on 6 March 2026.
