2026 Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII) Internships Opened

By | September 2, 2024

Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII) has opened its 2026 Internship program and is inviting all unemployed graduates to apply now. All interested applicants should apply using the details below.

CLOSING DATE: 02 September 2026

“Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute” (SPII) is a Johannesburg, South Africa non-profit think tank dedicated to advancing South Africa’s Constitution and to eradicating poverty and inequality through empirical research. An Intern in Research and Administration is needed for a fixed-term assignment at SPII

Position: Research and Administrative Intern

Duration: 6 months (fixed term)

Terms: 5 days per week

Stipend: R7 000 per month (not negotiable)

This position will work across a number of our key projects, including our social security and decent standard of living work, all of which are aligned to our focus on the reduction of poverty and inequality in South Africa, through the realisation of the transformative socio-economic rights in the Constitution.

INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS

Applicant must have a first degree in:

  • Human rights/Constitutional law,
  • Politics,
  • Economics,
  • Development,
  • or a related field.
  • Honours degree is an advantage.

INTERNSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work closely with the Research Manager and Research team to support SPII’s research work on the Social Security and Decent Standard of Living 2026 research projects.
  • Undertake primary and secondary research work as well as research writing, where necessary.
  • Assist with projects implementation and monitoring.
  • Assist with the administration of the research unit’s projects – in support to the senior and junior Researchers.
  • Assist with the development of research proposals and with compiling reports, as required.
  • Engage in networking and the profile raising of SPII by participating in relevant workshops, conferences and stakeholder meetings.
  • Engage in media and publicity work for SPII, as required.
  • Provide general administrative support to the Research team.
  • Provide ad hoc assistance to the general work of SPII, as required.

INTERNSHIP COMPETENCIES

  • An interest in human rights particularly in relation to socio-economic rights.
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a small team, and a demonstrated ability to use initiative and to take a proactive approach to work.
  • Communication skills – ability and confidence to speak in public and with stakeholders.
  • Proven experience with using social media for campaigning.
  • Good English reading and writing skills are essential.
  • The ability to communicate in at least one other South African language is an advantage.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office skills.
  • Commitment to the values of SPII and a passion for social justice.
See also  Doxa Deo School o f Divinity Online Application For Admission

METHOD OF APPLICATION

To apply, submit a short CV, a motivation/cover letter, and a sample of your written work to: applications@spii.org.za

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

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  • SPII is committed to Employment Equity and will give preference to historically disadvantaged South African applicants.
  • Those with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
  • Late and incomplete applications will not be considered for the position.
  • Only suitable qualified candidates will be considered, SPII reserves the right to cancel the position should the needs of the SPII change or should we regard the submissions not to be adequate based on its needs.
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

 


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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.


📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.
See also  University of Johannesburg NSFAS Approved List

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.
  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
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  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.


💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).


🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.


🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information


📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.