South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) Graduate Internships 2026: Stipend and Requirements
The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is offering unemployed graduates the chance to gain valuable workplace experience through its Graduate Internship Programme for the 2026-2028 period. This two-year programme provides a stipend and aims to equip graduates with practical skills in various fields within the public sector. Applications are open to those who have not previously participated in an internship.
Application Closing Date: 29 July 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Two years
Stipend: R72 000 to R102 000 per year
Minimum Qualification: Relevant Diploma or Degree
Opportunity Type: Graduate Internship
About the SAQA Graduate Internship Programme
The SAQA Graduate Internship Programme is designed to offer unemployed graduates essential workplace experience. This initiative focuses on providing practical exposure within a national public institution, helping graduates bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. The programme runs for two years and is specifically for individuals who require this type of experience and have not been part of any prior internship.
Successful interns will receive an annual stipend ranging from R72 000 to R102 000. This financial support aims to assist interns during their development period. The programme is structured to offer learning opportunities across different departments, contributing to the overall skills development within South Africa’s education and qualifications framework.
About the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is a public entity established by the National Qualifications Framework Act. Its primary role is to oversee the development and implementation of South Africa’s National Qualifications Framework (NQF). SAQA works to ensure that qualifications are of high quality and are recognised nationally and internationally.
SAQA’s functions include evaluating foreign qualifications, maintaining the NQF, and supporting quality assurance in education and training. By offering internships, SAQA contributes to developing a skilled workforce that can support the country’s education and skills development system.
Available Internship Fields
The SAQA Graduate Internship Programme offers opportunities in several key areas. Applicants should ensure their qualification aligns with the field they wish to apply for. The available fields are:
- Supply Chain Management
- Authentication Services
- Executive Support
- Legal and Compliance
Supply Chain Management Internship
For those interested in Supply Chain Management, a Diploma in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Public Administration, or Finance is required. Interns in this field may gain exposure to procurement processes, purchasing, supplier administration, asset management, contract administration, financial documentation, record keeping, and supply-chain reporting. This area is crucial for the efficient operation of any organisation.
Authentication Services Internship
The Authentication Services internship is suitable for graduates with a Diploma or Degree in Information Management, Education, or Administration. Successful candidates can expect to gain experience in qualification verification, document authentication, information management, records administration, customer support, and data capturing. They will also learn how to handle qualification-related enquiries.
Executive Support Internship
Graduates with a Degree in Public Management, Education, or Administration can apply for the Executive Support internship. This role offers practical exposure to executive office administration, including diary management, meeting coordination, minute taking, correspondence handling, document preparation, and stakeholder communication. It is a role that requires strong organisational skills.
Legal and Compliance Internship
This internship is for graduates who have completed a Degree in Law or an LLB degree. Successful applicants will gain practical experience in legal research, compliance monitoring, policy interpretation, governance, and regulatory frameworks. They will also be involved in risk management, drafting legal documents, and supporting internal compliance processes.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the SAQA Graduate Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be unemployed graduates.
- Require workplace experience.
- Have completed a qualification relevant to the selected internship field.
- Must not have participated in an internship programme before.
- Must submit a complete online application.
- Must upload all required supporting documents.
- Applications must be submitted before the closing date.
The provided information does not specify an age limit or a citizenship requirement.
Internship Duration
The SAQA Graduate Internship Programme is a two-year commitment. Successful candidates are expected to be available for the entire duration of the programme. This structured experience is designed to build a strong foundation for a career in the public sector.
Internship Stipend
Successful interns will receive an annual stipend ranging from R72 000 to R102 000 per year. The exact stipend amount may vary based on the specific position, the intern’s qualification level, and SAQA’s internal pay structure. The advertisement does not detail the monthly stipend amount or if additional benefits are included.
Who Should Apply?
This internship programme is ideal for recently qualified graduates who are unemployed and seeking their first professional workplace opportunity. It is particularly suited for those who have never participated in an internship before. Graduates in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Public Administration, Education, Information Management, Law, and LLB programmes are encouraged to apply. It is also a good fit for individuals interested in public-sector administration and gaining experience in qualification verification and compliance.
Competencies Required
While the primary focus is on qualifications, demonstrating certain skills can strengthen an application. These include professional communication, computer literacy, proficiency in Microsoft Office, attention to detail, time management, and organisational ability. Teamwork, problem-solving skills, report-writing ability, a willingness to learn, professional conduct, and the ability to handle confidential information are also valuable.
What Interns May Learn
During the two-year programme, interns can expect to gain experience in various professional areas. This includes workplace administration, professional email communication, record management, and meeting preparation. They will also learn about public-sector procedures, report writing, stakeholder communication, and professional ethics. Working with policies and legislation, data capturing, document verification, and supporting team-based projects are also part of the learning experience.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents for their application:
- An updated CV.
- A copy of their South African identity document (if requested).
- Copies of completed qualifications.
- An academic transcript.
- Proof of qualification completion.
- Any additional supporting documents requested on the SAQA portal.
As a full official document list is not provided, applicants must follow the specific instructions on the online application system.
How to Prepare Your CV
Your CV should clearly outline your full personal and contact details, educational qualifications with graduation dates, relevant academic subjects, and computer skills. Include any student projects, volunteer experience, leadership roles, or community involvement. If you have no formal work experience, highlight activities that demonstrate responsibility, initiative, teamwork, or communication abilities.
How to Apply for the SAQA Graduate Internship Programme 2026-2028
Applications must be submitted online through the official SAQA e-Recruitment portal.
Click here to apply for the SAQA Graduate Internship Programme 2026-2028
Applicants should follow these steps:
- Visit the official SAQA careers portal.
- Search for the Graduate Internship Programme.
- Select the internship that matches your qualification.
- Create a new applicant profile or sign in to an existing one.
- Complete all required sections of the application form.
- Upload your updated CV and all necessary supporting documents.
- Carefully review your entire application before submitting.
- Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date.
Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
- Applicants must meet all the minimum requirements to be eligible.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are clear and certified where required.
- Double-check all personal and contact details for accuracy.
Closing Date
Applications for the SAQA Graduate Internship Programme close on 29 July 2026. It is advisable to submit your application well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
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