Department of Human Settlements Graduate Internship Programme 2026/2027 : 24-Month Internship with R8,174.75 Monthly Stipend

The Free State Department of Human Settlements Graduate Internship Programme 2026/2027 is now accepting applications from unemployed South African graduates. This government internship offers a 24-month fixed-term contract with a monthly stipend of R8,174.75.

Successful candidates will gain valuable workplace experience in public service while working in Bloemfontein and district offices across the Free State. If you hold a relevant NQF Level 6 or Level 7 qualification, this opportunity could help you build practical skills and improve your career prospects.

Free State Human Settlements Internship 2026 Overview

Internship Details	Information
Department	Free State Department of Human Settlements
Programme	Graduate Internship Programme 2026/2027
Duration	24 Months
Monthly Stipend	R8,174.75
Location	Bloemfontein and District Offices
Closing Date	21 August 2026
Closing Time	16:00
Application Methods	Email, Hand Delivery, Postal Application

About the Free State Department of Human Settlements

The Free State Department of Human Settlements works to improve housing delivery and develop sustainable communities across the province. In addition, the department supports affordable housing projects, infrastructure development, rental housing services, and community planning.

Furthermore, the department offers graduates practical exposure to government operations. As a result, interns gain hands-on experience while contributing to important public service projects.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the internship programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be a South African citizen.
Be currently unemployed.
Have a Grade 12 certificate.
Hold a relevant NQF Level 6 or Level 7 qualification.
Never have participated in a Public Service Internship Programme before.

The department has not specified an age limit, minimum academic percentage, driver’s licence requirement, or previous work experience.

Available Graduate Internship Opportunities

The programme includes opportunities across several departments. Therefore, graduates from different academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Information Technology Internships

Information Technology – District Services (2 Posts)
Reference Number: HS 001/2026

Project Management Internships

Project Management Unit – District Services (15 Posts)

Office Administration Internships

Office Administration – District Services (10 Posts)

Affordable Housing Administration

Administrators – Affordable Housing
Reference Number: HS 012/2026

Rental Housing Internships

Rental Tribunal
Reference Number: HS 013/2026

Housing Development and Planning

Housing Development and Planning
Reference Number: HS 014/2026

Supply Chain Management Internships

Bid Administration and Logistics Management (2 Posts)
Reference Number: HS 015/2026

Financial Management Internships

Financial and Budget Management – Salaries and Tax (2 Posts)
Reference Number: HS 016/2026

Additional Internship Fields

The department is also recruiting graduates in:

Internal Audit
Human Resources Management
Corporate Communication
Labour Relations

These positions suit graduates in finance, administration, business, IT, communication, human resources, and related fields.

What You Will Gain During the Internship

The internship aims to bridge the gap between academic studies and employment. During the programme, interns may gain experience in:

Government administration.
Public sector communication.
Project coordination.
Professional reporting.
Team collaboration.
Policy implementation.
Administrative support.
Workplace mentoring.

Consequently, interns develop practical skills that are highly valued by government departments and private employers.

Documents Required for Your Application

Applicants must submit the following documents:

A fully completed New Z83 Application Form.
A recent and detailed CV.
Contactable referees.

Importantly, certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents are only required from shortlisted candidates. Therefore, you do not need to include certified copies during the initial application.

How to Apply for the Free State Human Settlements Internship

Applicants can apply using one of the following methods.

Email Application

Send your application to:

Email: recruit@fshs.gov.za

Make sure you include the correct reference number for the internship you are applying for.

Postal Application

Send your application to:

Head: HRM Directorate Human Settlements P.O. Box 247 Bloemfontein 9300

Hand Delivery

Deliver your application to:

OR Tambo House St Andrews Street Bloemfontein

Place your application in the designated application box at the Ground Floor Security.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is:

Date: 21 August 2026
Time: 16:00

Late applications are unlikely to be considered. Therefore, submit your application well before the deadline.

How to Improve Your Internship Application

A strong application can increase your chances of being shortlisted. Consider these useful tips:

Tailor your CV for the specific internship.
Highlight relevant university or TVET projects.
Include volunteer experience.
Mention leadership roles.
List your computer skills.
Demonstrate communication and teamwork abilities.
Double-check all contact information.

Download Form Here

Additionally, ensure your CV matches the internship field you are applying for.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Many applicants lose opportunities because of simple mistakes. Avoid the following:

Forgetting to sign the Z83 form.
Using the wrong reference number.
Applying for unrelated internship fields.
Submitting an outdated CV.
Providing incorrect contact details.
Listing referees who cannot be contacted.
Waiting until the last day to apply.
Missing the application closing time.

Carefully reviewing your application before submission can improve your chances of success.

Why You Should Apply

The Free State Human Settlements Graduate Internship Programme 2026/2027 offers valuable government work experience, professional development, and a competitive R8,174.75 monthly stipend for 24 months.

If you are an unemployed graduate looking to start your career in the public sector, this internship provides an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience while contributing to housing and community development in the Free State.

Submit your application before 21 August 2026 at 16:00 and ensure all required documents are completed correctly.