One of the first and most common questions in any internship interview is:
“Tell me about yourself.”
It sounds simple, but most students and graduates struggle to answer it confidently. The good news? This is your first chance to impress—and with the right approach, you can set the tone for a great interview.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what interviewers want to hear, what to avoid, and give you examples you can use.
âś… Why Do Interviewers Ask This?
They want to:
- Get a quick summary of who you are
- Understand your background and goals
- See how well you communicate
This question helps them decide if you’re a good fit for the internship, both professionally and personally.
🎯 How to Structure Your Answer (The 3-Part Formula)
Use this simple structure:
1. Who You Are Now
Start with your name, current level of study, and field.
“I’m a second-year Information Technology student at Tshwane University of Technology…”
2. Your Skills & Experience
Mention your academic strengths, soft skills, and any relevant projects or experience.
“…I’ve developed strong skills in problem-solving and teamwork through group projects, and I’ve completed a short course in Python programming.”
3. Your Goals & Why You’re Applying
Explain what you’re looking for and why this internship excites you.
“…I’m now looking for an internship where I can apply what I’ve learned in a real-world environment and continue building my tech skills.”
đź“‹ Full Example Answer (Student with No Experience)
“I’m a third-year Marketing student at the University of Johannesburg. I’ve always been interested in branding and content creation, and I’ve built strong communication and teamwork skills through my academic projects. I recently helped organize a student event that attracted over 300 people. I’m now looking for a marketing internship where I can apply my creativity and learn more about digital strategy.”
đź“‹ Example Answer (Student With Some Experience)
“My name is Kabelo, and I’m a final-year HR Management student at UNISA. I’ve volunteered at a local NGO where I helped with admin and community outreach. I’m passionate about people development and organizational culture. That experience taught me how to work in a team and handle responsibility. I’m now excited to gain more hands-on experience in HR through your internship programme.”
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Repeating your entire CV
- ❌ Talking too long (keep it under 1–2 minutes)
- ❌ Saying irrelevant info (like hobbies unless related)
- ❌ Sounding unsure (“Um… I don’t know really…”)
đź’ˇ Quick Tips
- Practice your answer before the interview
- Keep it natural and confident, not robotic
- Match your answer to the type of internship you’re applying for
- Always end with why you’re excited about the opportunity
🧠Bonus Tip: End With a Hook
Say something like:
“That’s a bit about me—I’m excited about the opportunity to grow and contribute to your team.”
🔚 Final Thoughts
“Tell me about yourself” is more than small talk—it’s your chance to shine. Prepare your answer, practice it, and go into the interview with confidence.
You’ve got this! 💪
đź“š More Internship Prep Resources
- Top 20 Internship Interview Questions (And How to Answer Them)
- How to Write a CV for Internships in South Africa
- How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship
Need personal help with your interview prep? Email us at info@gointern.co.za
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Internships in South Africa 2026
Internships are one of the most effective ways for young people in South Africa to gain real-world work experience. Whether you are a recent graduate, a student still studying, or someone looking to change careers, internships can open the door to valuable opportunities. Below are some of the most common questions about internships in South Africa, along with detailed answers to help you succeed.
1. What is an internship?
An internship is a structured program offered by companies, government departments, or NGOs that allows students and graduates to gain work experience in their chosen field. Internships are usually temporary — lasting anywhere from three months to a year — and may be paid or unpaid.
Unlike casual work, an internship focuses on skills development, mentorship, and exposure to professional environments. Many internships lead to permanent jobs if the candidate performs well.
2. Why are internships important in South Africa?
Internships are especially important in South Africa because many employers require work experience even for entry-level jobs. Since graduates often finish university or college without practical experience, internships help bridge this gap.
Key benefits of internships include:
- Gaining hands-on skills relevant to your career.
- Building a professional network.
- Improving your CV and employability.
- Increasing chances of securing permanent employment.
- Exploring different career paths before committing long-term.
3. Are internships paid in South Africa?
Internships in South Africa can be both paid and unpaid.
- Paid internships usually offer a monthly stipend to cover transport, food, and basic living costs. The amount varies by company and industry.
- Unpaid internships provide work experience without financial support. These are more common in NGOs, creative industries, or small businesses.
Even if an internship is unpaid, the value of experience, references, and networking can outweigh the lack of pay — especially for students looking to enter competitive industries.
4. Who can apply for an internship?
Most internships are designed for:
- Recent graduates who have completed a diploma, degree, or certificate.
- Final-year students seeking workplace experience as part of their qualification.
- Unemployed youth registered with programs like YES (Youth Employment Service).
Some internships are open to all young South Africans aged 18–35, while others may require specific qualifications or skills.
5. How long do internships last?
The duration of internships varies depending on the employer and industry:
- Short internships: 3–6 months, often project-based.
- Graduate internships: 12 months, common in government and corporate programs.
- Work-integrated learning (WIL): 6–12 months, usually required by universities or TVET colleges for graduation.
6. How do I find internships in South Africa?
There are several ways to find internship opportunities:
- Career websites such as GoIntern, Indeed, or Career24.
- Company websites — many big organizations like Sasol, Nedbank, or Eskom advertise graduate internships.
- Government portals like the DPSA (Department of Public Service and Administration).
- University career centers or student support services.
- Networking — asking lecturers, alumni, or professionals in your field.
7. What documents are needed to apply for an internship?
When applying for an internship, you will normally need:
- A South African ID (certified copy).
- An updated CV.
- Matric certificate and/or academic transcripts.
- Motivational letter explaining why you want the internship.
- Proof of residence (for government or municipal internships).
- Bank details (for paid internships).
8. Do internships guarantee permanent jobs?
Not always. Internships are primarily designed to give experience, not employment. However, many companies use internships as a recruitment tool. If you perform well, you may be offered a permanent position.
Your chances of being hired after an internship increase if you:
- Show commitment and professionalism.
- Take initiative and learn quickly.
- Build strong relationships with colleagues.
- Demonstrate that you add value to the organization.
9. What is the difference between an internship, learnership, and apprenticeship?
- Internship: For students or graduates, focused on workplace exposure. Duration is 3–12 months.
- Learnership: A structured program combining theory and practical training. Leads to an NQF qualification. Funded through SETAs.
- Apprenticeship: Technical training in trades (like plumbing, welding, or electrical work) that leads to artisan qualifications.
10. When should I apply for internships in 2026?
Most internships for the 2026 intake will open between September 2025 and February 2026. Graduate programs at large companies usually advertise opportunities towards the end of the year for placements starting in January. Government internships often open at the beginning of the year.
To increase your chances:
- Start searching in the second half of 2025.
- Keep your CV updated.
- Apply to multiple opportunities — don’t wait for just one.
Conclusion
Internships are a stepping stone to building a successful career in South Africa. They provide students and graduates with valuable skills, workplace experience, and networking opportunities that can lead to permanent employment. Whether paid or unpaid, an internship in 2026 could be the launchpad for your future success.
If you’re serious about your career, start preparing your application documents now and keep an eye on internship listings throughout 2025.
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