Internship Requirements: Your Complete Guide to Internship Success

Internships are vital stepping stones in launching a professional career, providing hands-on experience and crucial industry exposure. Understanding the requirements for internships not only boosts your chances of being selected but also sets you up for long-term success. Whether you’re a student, a graduate, or someone transitioning careers, knowing what’s expected will help you make informed choices and unlock valuable opportunities.

Essential Highlights

Internships in South Africa generally require applicants to be between 18 and 35, hold a relevant diploma or degree, and be unemployed at the start of the program.
Expect to submit a comprehensive CV, academic transcripts, and often a Z83 application form or program-specific documents.
Most internships are full-time, run for 12–24 months, and offer stipends instead of salaries.
Soft skills like communication, computer literacy, and teamwork are as crucial as academic credentials.
Application processes are competitive; attention to detail and tailoring each application boost your success rate.
For step-by-step guides and up-to-date listings, visit Requirements.co.za.

What Are Internship Requirements?
Eligibility Criteria: Age, Education, and More
Application Process: Documents and Steps
Typical Internship Benefits & Stipends
Top Tips to Secure Your Ideal Internship
Recommended Resources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Are Internship Requirements?

Internship requirements are the set of criteria and qualifications applicants must meet to be considered for an internship position. These requirements ensure that candidates are adequately prepared to contribute meaningfully and benefit fully from the experience.

Qualifications typically vary by industry, but most internships seek candidates with at least a National Diploma (NQF level 6) or a Bachelor’s degree relevant to the field[2][5][7].
Internships may also specify certain majors, such as Human Resource Management, Communications, Economics, or IT.
Soft skills—such as written and verbal communication, teamwork, and computer literacy—are frequently listed as desirable[7].

For a more detailed breakdown by sector, check out the curated internship requirements list at Requirements.co.za.

Eligibility Criteria: Age, Education, and More

To be eligible for an internship, candidates must meet specific age, education, and employment status criteria. While exact requirements differ between programs, the following are typical across South Africa:

Age Range: Most internships are open to candidates aged 18–35[2][7].
Citizenship: South African citizenship is standard for most local government and corporate internships[7].
Academic Credentials:
- At minimum, an NQF Level 6 or 7 diploma (e.g., in Human Resources, Public Administration, Computer Science, etc.) or a Bachelor’s degree[2][5][7].
Employment Status: Applicants must typically be unemployed and not currently studying full-time or permanently employed[2][7].
Language Skills: Fluency in English (speak, read, and write) is commonly required[7].
Computer Literacy: Basic to advanced computer skills are often mandatory[7].

Some internships specify that applicants should not have previously participated in a similar program, ensuring opportunities are accessible to more graduates[2].

Application Process: Documents and Steps

Applying for an internship is a formal process that involves preparing key documents and meeting strict deadlines.

Common Documents Required:

Comprehensive CV/Resume highlighting education, skills, and experience[5].
Certified copies of academic transcripts, certificates, and ID documents.
Application form (such as the Z83 for government internships)[5].
Cover letter detailing your motivation and suitability.

Application Steps:
1. Identify suitable opportunities on trusted portals like Requirements.co.za and on employer or government sites[3].
2. Read requirements carefully—each program may have unique needs regarding qualification, location, or skillset.
3. Tailor your application documents for each position, demonstrating a clear alignment between your background and the requirements.
4. Submit applications before the deadline, double-checking all included documentation[5].
5. Prepare for an interview, which may test your technical and soft skills.

For examples of successful internship applications and more advice, visit the latest internship listings.

Typical Internship Benefits & Stipends

Internships in South Africa usually offer stipends, not full salaries, but the benefits extend well beyond pay.

Stipends vary by level of qualification and field, averaging between R7,450 and R10,000 per month[5][7].
Duration is typically 12–24 months, with fixed contract dates[5][7].
Additional benefits may include medical aid (some corporate programs), training certifications, and mentorship[7].
Real-world experience: Internships provide an invaluable bridge between academic study and full-time employment, equipping you with work experience, references, and networking opportunities[7].

Top Tips to Secure Your Ideal Internship

Landing your dream internship is about more than just meeting the requirements—it’s about standing out.

Start your search early; applications fill up fast, especially in high-demand sectors.
Customize your CV and cover letter for each application, using keywords from the internship posting.
Highlight transferable skills, such as teamwork and communication, as these are valued across industries.
Follow application instructions precisely, as incomplete or batch applications are often rejected[5].
Seek out feedback on your CV and interview technique from career advisors or professionals in your field.
Stay updated by subscribing to alerts on trusted platforms like Requirements.co.za.

Need more tips? Explore expert advice on internship readiness from SA Government resources, HSRC, or banking internships at Standard Bank.

Recommended Resources

Requirements.co.za – Your go-to for up-to-date internship requirements and application resources.
Internship requirements breakdown – Detailed eligibility criteria and sector-specific advice.
Browse open opportunities – Current listings of internships by field and institution.
Department of Employment and Labour – Official information on government internship openings and requirements.
Higher Education South Africa – Guidance for university graduates.
Youth Employment Service (YES) – National initiative connecting youth with work experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Who can apply for internships in South Africa?
Anyone aged 18–35 with the required qualifications (typically a diploma or degree), who is unemployed and a South African citizen, can apply for most internships[2][7].

Q2: What documents are usually required for internship applications?
You need a detailed CV, academic transcripts, certified copies of qualifications and your ID, and sometimes a completed Z83 form or other program-specific application forms[5].

Q3: Are internships paid or unpaid?
Most formal internships in South Africa are paid in the form of a monthly stipend, which varies depending on your field and level of qualification (usually R7,000–R10,000)[5][7].

Q4: How long do internships usually last?
Internships typically run from 12 to 24 months, depending on the organization and position[2][5][7].

Q5: Can I apply for multiple fields or posts with one application?
No. You must submit a separate application for each post or field, and applications referencing more than one post are usually not considered[5].

Q6: Where can I find the most up-to-date internship requirements and opportunities?
Visit Requirements.co.za for the latest requirements and listings across all sectors.

Q7: Are soft skills and extracurricular activities important?
Absolutely. Skills like communication, teamwork, and a proactive attitude can make your application stand out and increase your chances of selection[7].

Internships are the bridge between your studies and a successful career. Understanding — and meeting — the requirements is the first step to unlocking doors in your chosen sector. For more tools, tips, and the latest internship opportunities, make Requirements.co.za part of your journey!

Internship Requirements