Looking for a graduate internship that offers real university experience and a monthly stipend? The UFS Internships 2026 programme gives unemployed South African graduates a chance to build practical skills in teaching, learning, e-assessment, and academic support while earning R9,497.50 per month.
The University of the Free State is inviting unemployed South African graduates to apply for its 2026 Internship Programme, offering a 12-month contract and a monthly stipend of R9,497.50. Applications close on 10 April 2026.
This opportunity is aimed at graduates who want to gain practical experience in a higher education environment, especially in teaching, learning, e-assessment, and blended learning support. For many applicants, this could be a strong first step into the world of academic support, digital learning, and university administration.
If you have a degree, no formal work experience, and want paid workplace exposure, this internship is worth serious attention.
The internship is based within the university’s Teaching and Learning environment and focuses on Assessment and Blended Learning Innovation Support Services. Successful candidates will work with online learning tools, help support assessments, and assist academic users across key digital platforms.
What is the UFS internship about?
The programme is designed to give graduates hands-on exposure to the technology side of teaching and learning. Interns will support systems and processes linked to e-learning, digital assessments, and academic training.
The official position is:
Intern – Technology in Teaching and Learning (Assessment Blended Learning Innovation Support and Services)
The internship runs for 12 months, giving selected candidates time to build practical skills in a structured university setting. It is especially suited to graduates interested in education technology, academic systems, online learning support, and training environments.
What will successful interns do?
Interns will assist with a range of important tasks that support assessment and blended learning activities at the university.
These duties include:
- Assisting with the development of e-assessment activities and question banks
- Supporting the scheduling of assessments on UFS online platforms
- Helping create training materials for objective assessments
- Assisting with the training of students and academic staff
- Collecting and analysing data, including report writing
- Providing support to users of online learning and assessment systems
This means the role is not just administrative. It gives interns exposure to both technical and academic support work, which can be valuable for future careers in education, training, digital systems, and institutional support.
Who can apply for the UFS Internships 2026?
To qualify, applicants must meet the university’s minimum requirements.
You must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s Degree or B-Tech qualification at NQF Level 7
- Have no previous formal work experience
- Not be part of another internship or learnership
- Be available for the full 12-month period
- Be willing to sign an internship or learnership agreement
This programme is clearly aimed at entry-level graduates who need their first real workplace opportunity.
What will give applicants an advantage?
Although these are not strict requirements, the university has highlighted a few factors that may strengthen an application.
Applicants may have an advantage if they have:
- A postgraduate qualification
- Experience as a Tutor, Student Assistant, or Teaching Assistant
- Familiarity with Learning Management Systems or Assessment Systems
These added strengths can help show that you already understand academic environments or digital learning tools, even if you do not yet have formal employment experience.
Which skills does UFS want from candidates?
The university is looking for graduates who can work well with people, stay organised, and handle detail-driven tasks.
Key competencies include:
- Strong organisational and planning skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Ability to collaborate and work under supervision
This suggests UFS wants someone who is reliable, adaptable, and comfortable supporting both staff and students in a structured environment.
Which documents must be submitted?
Applicants need to prepare a full set of supporting documents before submitting the online application.
Required documents include:
- A detailed CV
- Certified copies of qualifications or proof of qualifications
- SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications
- A copy of your ID or passport
Make sure your documents are clear, up to date, and properly certified where required. Missing paperwork can delay or weaken an application.
How much does the internship pay?
The University of the Free State internship offers a monthly stipend of R9,497.50.
For many graduates, that makes this opportunity especially attractive because it combines professional experience with financial support during the internship period.
A paid internship at a respected university can add real value to your CV while helping you build practical skills.
How can you apply?
Applications must be submitted online before the deadline.
Applications must be submitted through the official online application portal.
The closing date is 10 April 2026. Late applications will not be considered, so it is important to apply as early as possible and double-check that all required documents are included.
Why is this internship worth considering?
Graduate internships can be highly competitive, especially when they offer both structured experience and a monthly stipend. What makes this one stand out is the chance to work in a university environment while gaining exposure to digital learning systems and assessment support.
That kind of experience can open doors in areas such as:
- Higher education administration
- E-learning support
- Academic development
- Assessment coordination
- Training and development
- Education technology
For graduates trying to break into the job market, this is the kind of role that can help build confidence, workplace readiness, and career direction.
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Final Thoughts
The UFS Internships 2026 programme offers unemployed South African graduates a valuable chance to gain 12 months of practical experience in a university teaching and learning environment while earning R9,497.50 per month.
For applicants who meet the requirements and want to build experience in academic support, blended learning, and assessment systems, this is a strong early-career opportunity. With the deadline set for 10 April 2026, interested graduates should prepare their documents and submit their applications as soon as possible.
