University of the Free State – Internship

Finance internships can be especially useful when they give exposure to real systems and transactional work rather than only general office tasks. This UFS Finance internship in Bloemfontein is aimed at graduates in accounting who want practical experience with finance administration, transaction processing, data capture, and account-related queries inside a university environment.

At a glance

What this opportunity is

This is a finance internship designed to give practical exposure to transaction processing, data capture, account adjustments, and general finance administration. The role sits within the UFS Finance unit and gives selected interns the chance to apply their accounting knowledge in a real operational environment.

Note: This is not a general graduate admin role. The inherent requirement is specifically an accounting qualification at NQF Level 7, so the opportunity is much more relevant for accounting graduates who want hands-on finance exposure.

Who this opportunity may suit

• An accounting graduate who wants first-time finance workplace exposure
• Someone who is comfortable with systems, transaction processing, and accurate data work
• A candidate who needs practical experience but does not yet have formal work experience
• An applicant who can work professionally with students, colleagues, and finance-related queries

What you’ll do / learn

You’ll gain practical exposure to finance operations, transaction systems, account administration, and professional service interaction in a university finance environment.

• Process transactions on PeopleSoft
• Capture data
• Journalise rectifications and changes to accounts or entities
• Manage accounts and general enquiries
• Develop practical finance administration experience in a professional setting

Eligibility requirements

Check the requirements below before applying.

Essential requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or B-Tech degree on NQF Level 7 in the field of accounting
• Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
• Must be willing to sign an internship agreement with UFS
• If studying, no classes may be attended during office hours

Role-specific restrictions

• Should not currently be participating in an existing learnership or internship programme
• Must not have any formal work experience

Recommended / advantageous

• Sound knowledge of general accounting
• Good computer skills, including proficiency in MS Word and MS Excel
• Communication and people skills, with the ability to work well with students and colleagues

Core competencies mentioned on the advert

• Results orientated
• Ability to maintain composure and self-control
• Reliability, responsibility, and dependability
• Ability to deal with several activities at a time
• Ability to plan work and follow plans
• Ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations
• Proficiency in MS Office
• Ability to work cooperatively with others
• Sensitivity to the needs and feelings of others
• Ability to interact with others and establish personal connections

What this role really means

A finance internship like this usually means working with real records, systems, and account processes where accuracy matters every day. In practice, it is likely to involve repetitive but important finance tasks, careful data handling, and answering account-related queries professionally. If you are applying, it helps to show that you are methodical, reliable, and comfortable working with numbers and systems rather than only saying you are “hardworking”.

Application checklist

Make sure your application is complete before submitting.

• Detailed CV
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained
• SAQA accreditation if you hold foreign qualifications
• Copy of your South African ID or passport if you are a foreign national permanent resident
• Clear contact details (phone + email)
• Any supporting accounting, finance systems, or admin-related strengths on your CV

Important: The system allows a maximum of eight attachments, and UFS recommends merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

Need help with CVs, certified copies, and application tips? Use our Resources & Guides Hub.

About the sponsor

The University of the Free State is a South African public university with campuses in Bloemfontein and Qwaqwa. On its official site, UFS describes itself as a multi-campus institution with seven faculties, focused on teaching, research, and engagement with society. Read more about the university on the UFS Website

Quick tips for this application

• Make your accounting qualification easy to identify near the top of your CV
• If you have used finance or admin systems, spreadsheets, or accounting software during your studies, mention that clearly
• Keep your CV focused on accuracy, reliability, and ability to work with transactions and records
• Merge your supporting documents properly before uploading so you do not run into the attachment limit
• If you are still studying, be realistic about the “no classes during office hours” rule before applying

Mistakes to avoid

• Applying without an accounting qualification at the required level
• Leaving out qualification documents or official proof of qualification
• Submitting incomplete applications, because UFS states incomplete applications will not be considered
• Applying while already participating in another internship or learnership
• Using a generic CV that does not show finance or accounting relevance

Scam warning (important)

Do not pay any fee to apply for this internship. UFS states that applications may only be submitted online through its official vacancy website. Use only the official UFS careers page linked below.

How this opportunity was verified

We checked the official UFS vacancy listing for Internship (Contract appointment: 18 months) (4 positions) (Job ID 6393, posting 2082) and matched the sponsor background to UFS’s official website before preparing this post.

For more information about how our posts are verified, please visit our How we verify listings page.

How to apply

1. Open the official vacancy page using the button below.
2. Read the requirements carefully and confirm that your qualification and status match the internship rules.
3. Prepare your CV and supporting documents.
4. Submit your application through the official UFS vacancy platform before 25 March 2026.