If you just finished an accounting degree and still feel stuck on the job hunt, a fresh 18‑month internship at the University of the Free State could be the launchpad you need. Seta often lists similar roles.
What the UFS Graduate Internship Programme is
The University of the Free State (UFS) is offering four Finance Internship positions at its Bloemfontein campus. These 18‑month contracts are designed for graduates with no formal work experience. The programme will immerse you in institutional finance systems, accounting workflows, and day‑to‑day administrative operations inside a respected South African university.
Who should apply?
To be eligible you need to meet all of the following:
- Bachelor’s degree or B-Tech (NQF Level 7) in Accounting.
- No previous formal accounting employment.
- South African citizenship or permanent residency.
- Available to work during normal hours if still studying.
- Willing to sign an internship agreement with UFS.
- Not currently enrolled in another internship or learnership.
In short, this is a first‑time entrant opportunity for accounting graduates, especially recent BCom or B-Tech students who want to gain university‑level finance exposure.
What you’ll gain
As an intern, you’ll work with PeopleSoft, a widely used enterprise resource planning system, and learn to:
- Process financial transactions.
- Capture and audit finance data accurately.
- Perform journal adjustments and rectifications.
- Handle finance enquiries and support account management.
- Assist with institutional finance documentation and administrative workflows.
These responsibilities mirror what employers look for in entry‑level finance administrators and junior accounting assistants, so your resume will stand out after you finish.
How to apply
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official UFS recruitment portal: Apply here.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload the required documents (see below). Remember you can attach a maximum of eight files.
- Submit before the closing date: 25 March 2026.
Documents you must upload:
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Proof of qualification – certificates or official transcripts.
- SAQA evaluation if your degree was earned outside South Africa.
- Copy of your South African ID or passport for permanent residents.
Practical tips to boost your application
- Make your CV highlight accounting modules, projects and any software skills.
- Showcase Excel proficiency and any other MS Office skills.
- Include a brief summary of academic finance projects that demonstrate analytical thinking.
- Prepare scanned copies of all documents early to avoid last‑minute glitches.
- Practice the basics of PeopleSoft online; this can give you a confidence boost.
- Keep all attachments under the eight‑file limit by bundling related documents into one PDF where possible.
FAQs
- Can I apply if I already have work experience? No – the programme is for graduates with no formal experience.
- Am I allowed to be in another internship at the same time? No – you must not be part of another internship or learnership.
- Do foreign graduates qualify? Only if you hold permanent residency and provide a SAQA evaluation of your qualification.
- Where will the internship take place? At UFS Bloemfontein Campus in the Free State.
Contact information
For more details or questions, call:
051 401 2979, 051 401 9813, 051 401 9848
Email: JardineS@ufs.ac.za, Recruit@ufs.ac.za
Next steps
The deadline is fast approaching – 25 March 2026. If you fit the profile and want to start your finance career in a university setting, click the application link, fill out the form, and upload your documents today. Good luck!
