
National Treasury invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their 2026 Graduate Internship Programme vacancies. The closing date for applications is 12 January 2026.
The National Treasury graduate internship is one of South Africa’s most respected and competitive entry‑level programmes. Whether you love economics, finance, forensic auditing, IT, public policy, maths, communications, logistics or social sciences, this internship gives you a rare chance to learn from people who shape the country’s economy.
Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | National Treasury SA Graduate Internship Programme 2026 |
| Duration | 24 months (full‑time) |
| Location | National Treasury, Pretoria |
| Fields Eligible | More than 60 fields – from economics and finance to IT, law, HR, and design |
| Who Can Apply? | Graduates with a 3‑year diploma, degree or postgraduate qualification |
| Preference | High‑performing students with strong grades |
| Closing Date | 12 January 2026 |
| Application Method | Online through the National Treasury e‑Recruitment portal |
| Hand‑delivered / emailed applications accepted | No – only online applications |
| Organisation | Department: National Treasury, Republic of South Africa |
About the National Treasury
The National Treasury is a key part of the South African government. It:
- Sets national economic policy
- Manages public finances
- Plans the national budget
- Ensures accountability for public money
- Supports sustainable growth and long‑term infrastructure projects
Working here means you get to see how public money is spent, how budgets are built, and how policies shape the future of the country.
Why This Internship Matters
Many graduates find it hard to turn theory into real work experience. This internship helps you:
- Apply classroom knowledge to real projects
- Work for one of the country’s most respected departments
- Boost your CV for public and private jobs
- Receive structured training and coaching
- Build a professional network that lasts a lifetime
Success in this internship can open doors to leadership roles, specialist jobs, and further study.
What the 24‑Month Programme Offers
During the two‑year internship, you will:
- Get hands‑on work that influences national operations, not just sit in meetings
- Apply your knowledge to real policy, finance, and economics challenges
- Learn from senior experts – economists, auditors, IT specialists, and policy analysts
- See how budgets, procurement, and policies move from idea to action
After finishing, you’ll be highly sought after in government, state‑owned enterprises, financial firms, consulting agencies, and private‑sector finance, risk, and audit roles.
Who Should Apply?
Graduates with a 3‑year diploma, bachelor’s degree, or postgraduate qualification in any of these areas can apply:
Accounting & Finance
- Accounting, finance, management accounting, financial risk management, investment management, financial information systems, development finance
Economics & Statistics
- Economics, econometrics, development economics, mathematics, statistics, development studies
Information Technology
- Computer science, IT, information systems, business intelligence, data science, data management, informatics
Law & Compliance
- Law, LLB, forensic auditing, forensic investigation, investigative accounting
Public Sector, Policy & Management
- Public finance, public management, public policy, public procurement, administration, purchasing management, office administration
Social Sciences & Humanities
- Psychology, sociology, social work, political science, communication studies, media studies, journalism
Design & Visual Fields
- Graphic design, visual communications
Human Resources
- HR management, HR development, industrial psychology
Other Fields
- Logistics, supply chain management, marketing, administration, paralegal
People with disabilities are encouraged to apply – all offices are accessible.
Minimum Requirements
- Completed qualification (diploma, degree or postgraduate)
- From an approved field above
- High grades – preference for top performers
- Ready for 24 months of full‑time work in Pretoria
- Only online applications – no email or postal submissions
How to Apply
Send your application only through the National Treasury e‑Recruitment portal.
Complete application must include:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Any other documents the portal asks for
If you don’t hear back within three months after 12 January 2026, your application was not selected.
Apply Now
Apply for the National Treasury SA Graduate Internship Programme 2026 here
Application Tips
- Start early – the portal can get busy near the deadline.
- Use active verbs in your CV – show results and clarity.
- Show your best grades – Treasury values high academic achievement.
- Highlight leadership – group work, volunteering, campus roles.
- Keep your CV clean and professional – use a simple layout.
- Answer questions honestly and clearly – explain why you want this role.
- Tailor your CV and motivation to public finance and national development.
Career Path After the Internship
- Government & Public Sector
- Economist, budget analyst, policy specialist, financial analyst, supply chain practitioner, auditor, project manager, monitoring & evaluation officer
- Private Sector
- Financial planner, data analyst, risk specialist, IT systems officer, internal auditor, compliance officer, investment analyst
- Consulting & Advisory
Many former interns join consulting firms or go into research and international scholarships. The two‑year experience gives you a stable, well‑paid future.
FAQs
- Is this internship paid?
Government internships usually offer a stipend; check the portal for details. - Can I apply if I finish my degree in 2025?
Yes – as long as you have your qualification when the programme starts. - Do I need previous work experience?
No – the internship is for new or recent graduates. - Can I apply for more than one field?
Apply only in areas that match your qualification. - What if my degree isn’t listed?
The programme will only consider the fields mentioned above. - Can I submit by email?
No – only online via the official portal. - Will I receive feedback?
Only shortlisted candidates are contacted. If you don’t hear anything three months after the closing date, your application was unsuccessful.
Closing Date: 12 January 2026
Disclaimer
- This post is not a recruitment agency. All details come from the National Treasury’s official advert.
- Always apply through the official e‑Recruitment system.




