Looking for hands-on experience in finance? The University of the Free State (UFS) Finance Internships 2026 offer 4 positions for recent graduates. This 18-month program gives South African unemployed graduates real-world skills in a university setting. Interns work with financial systems, accounting tasks, and admin duties in the Finance Department. This article covers the overview, job details, duties, requirements, selection criteria, skills needed, documents, how to apply, contacts, and key notes.
Internship Overview
The UFS Finance Internships 2026 provide strong training for new graduates. The program runs for 18 months in the Finance Department at Bloemfontein Campus. It starts as soon as possible and focuses on practical finance work.
Here are the key facts:
- Positions available: 4 Finance Interns
- Duration: 18-month contract
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
- Closing date: 25 March 2026
Interns gain exposure to financial systems like PeopleSoft, accounting processes, and admin functions. This setup helps build skills in a busy university environment.
Job Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Finance Interns (X4) |
| Job ID | 6393 |
| Contract | 18 Months (Temporary) |
| Department | Finance |
| Location | Bloemfontein Campus |
| Start Date | As soon as possible |
This temporary role suits recent graduates with no work experience. It offers steady pay and real tasks in finance. The setup lets interns learn while contributing to university operations.
Duties and Responsibilities
Interns handle key finance tasks each day. These duties build practical skills step by step. Here is what they do:
- Process transactions using PeopleSoft: Interns enter and check payments or receipts in the system. This keeps university finances accurate and up to date.
- Capture financial data: They input numbers and details from forms into records. Good attention helps avoid errors in reports.
- Journalise corrections and account changes: Interns fix mistakes in accounts by making journal entries. This skill sharpens accounting basics.
- Manage accounts and respond to general enquiries: They check student or staff accounts and answer questions. Clear communication makes this role smooth.
These tasks match everyday university needs. Interns see finance in action.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants need a solid education to qualify. The program targets those ready to start in finance. Check these basics:
- Bachelor’s Degree or B-Tech Degree (NQF Level 7) in Accounting: This is the main qualification needed. It shows core knowledge in accounting.
Submit all proofs with your application. Incomplete applications get rejected right away. Meet this to move forward.
Selection Criteria
UFS picks candidates who fit the program rules. These points help narrow the field. Review them to see if you qualify:
- Not in another internship or learnership: You must be free to focus fully here.
- No formal work experience: This program is for true beginners.
- South African citizen or permanent resident: Only locals or residents apply.
- Willing to sign an internship agreement: Agree to the terms upfront.
- No classes during office hours (if studying): Work hours come first.
These rules ensure fairness and focus. They target unemployed graduates eager to learn.
Recommended Skills and Key Competencies
Strong skills make interns stand out. UFS values both technical know-how and personal traits. This table groups them for quick review:
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Skills | Knowledge of general accounting principles; Computer skills (MS Word and Excel); Good communication and interpersonal skills; Ability to work with students and colleagues |
| Competencies | Results-oriented and reliable; Strong planning and organisational skills; Business awareness and adherence to policies; Leadership and teamwork abilities; Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills |
Build these areas to boost your chances. They help interns succeed in a team setting. Show them in your CV for an edge.
Required Documents
Gather these items before applying. Missing any means rejection. Use this list:
- Detailed CV
- Copies of qualifications (or proof if not yet complete)
- SAQA evaluation (if qualifications from outside South Africa)
- Copy of ID or passport
Double-check your files. Submit clear copies online.
How to Apply for UFS Finance Internships 2026
Follow these steps to apply right. Online is the only way. The deadline is 25 March 2026.
- Visit the official UFS site: Go to the careers page at UFS job search portal.
- Find Job ID 6393: Search for Finance Interns or use this direct apply link.
- Upload your documents: Add CV, qualifications, and ID as listed.
- Submit and confirm: Check everything before sending. No email or paper apps count.
Act fast to secure your spot in UFS Finance Internships 2026.
Contact and Enquiries
Reach out for questions before the deadline. Use these details:
- Tel: 051 401 2979
- Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
- Additional support: 051 401 9813 / 9848
Contact them about the application process only. They guide shortlisted candidates next.
Important Notes
Keep these points in mind:
Preference to designated groups: UFS follows Employment Equity rules.
POPIA compliance: Your data stays safe under privacy laws.
Shortlisted only contacted: Expect no reply otherwise.
No feedback in 6 weeks: Means your application did not succeed.
These rules keep the process fair and clear.