The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has opened applications for its Finance Portfolio Internship Programme 2026, offering unemployed South African graduates a valuable opportunity to gain real, hands-on experience in accounting and finance. Based in Pretoria, this internship is aimed at graduates who are ready to move beyond theory and step into practical, workplace-based financial operations within one of the country’s most respected research institutions.
If you recently completed a qualification in accounting or finance and are struggling to gain the experience employers expect, this programme is designed to help you bridge that gap in a meaningful and career-focused way.
About the CSIR Finance Portfolio Internship Programme 2026
The CSIR Finance Portfolio Internship Programme is a structured workplace learning opportunity that places graduates directly within the organisation’s finance environment. Interns are not observers. They actively support core finance functions and gain exposure to real systems, processes and compliance requirements used in large, professional institutions.
The programme focuses on building practical competence in accounting, asset management and financial administration, giving graduates the kind of experience that strengthens employability in both the public and private sectors.
What the Internship Involves
This internship is ideal for graduates who want applied experience in finance and accounting rather than purely academic exposure. Interns work under supervision while contributing to day-to-day finance operations.
Processing Financial Transactions
Interns assist with capturing and processing financial transactions, ensuring that all entries are accurate, compliant with internal policies and correctly recorded in the accounting system. This provides a strong foundation in real-world accounting workflows.
Financial Account Reconciliations
You will support the reconciliation of financial accounts by identifying discrepancies, correcting errors and ensuring transactions are recorded in the correct accounting period. This is a core accounting skill that is highly valued by employers.
Asset Accounting and Journals
The internship includes hands-on exposure to asset accounting. Interns help prepare documentation for asset additions, journals and cost allocations, gaining experience in fixed asset management.
Query Resolution and Stakeholder Communication
Interns respond to finance-related queries from internal divisions, clusters and asset custodians. You will learn how to communicate professionally, follow up on issues and escalate matters appropriately when required.
Financial Records and Audit Preparation
You will help maintain accurate financial records, including journals, transfers, disposals and reconciliation documents. This experience is essential for understanding audit trails and compliance requirements.
Month-End and Year-End Processes
Interns assist during month-end and year-end closing periods, ensuring deadlines are met and transactions are processed correctly. Early exposure to these cycles is extremely valuable for building a strong finance career.
Physical Asset Verification
The programme also includes participation in physical asset verification activities, such as barcode or QR code scanning and site visits across CSIR locations, providing a blend of finance and operational exposure.
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a three-year diploma or degree in Accounting or Finance.
Technical Knowledge
Candidates should have a basic understanding of accounting principles, introductory VAT knowledge and working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. Professional email communication skills using Outlook are also important.
Professional and Personal Skills
CSIR is looking for graduates who demonstrate attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, good time management and sound planning and organisational abilities. Successful interns are reliable, punctual, adaptable, able to work under pressure and communicate effectively in professional environments.
While the internship is based in Pretoria, interns are also expected to be self-motivated, disciplined and capable of working independently when required.
Who Should Apply
This internship is suitable for unemployed graduates who have completed a relevant qualification and are seeking structured workplace experience in finance. It is particularly valuable for those interested in accounting operations, asset management, compliance or financial administration roles.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official CSIR application platform.
Apply for the CSIR Finance Portfolio Internship Programme 2026 here:
APPLY FOR THE CSIR FINANCE PORTFOLIO INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Closing Date
Applications close on 22 December 2025.
Final Thoughts
The CSIR Finance Portfolio Internship Programme 2026 offers more than just workplace exposure. It provides graduates with practical, hands-on experience in a professional finance environment, helping them build confidence, competence and credibility in the job market.
For accounting and finance graduates who are serious about launching their careers, this internship presents a strong foundation and a meaningful step toward long-term professional growth.
