Apply for SARB and BER Economist Internships 2027
Role Overview
South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and the Bureau for Economic Research (BER) invite South African Economics graduates to apply for the Economist Internship Programme 2027.
Internship Application Closing Date: 30 June 2026 at 09:00
Internship Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
SARB and BER Economist Internship Programme 2027
The South African Reserve Bank, in partnership with the Bureau for Economic Research at Stellenbosch University, is offering the 2027 Economist Internship Programme.
This programme is aimed at graduates who are completing or have completed an Honours or Master’s degree in Economics and want to gain practical training in economic research, forecasting, analysis and communication.
Successful candidates will be employed full-time by the South African Reserve Bank and will spend a year receiving intensive training and practical experience at the Bureau for Economic Research in Stellenbosch.
Programme Details
Programme: 2027 Economist Internship Programme
Host Organisations: South African Reserve Bank and Bureau for Economic Research
Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Duration: January 2027 to December 2027
Employment Type: Full-time employment with SARB
Salary: Competitive salary during the training year
Interview Period: July and August 2026
Purpose of the Internship
The purpose of the programme is to provide practical training to suitably qualified Economics graduates so that they can function effectively as economists in the public and private sectors.
Successful candidates will work with experienced BER economists and gain exposure to business-orientated macroeconomic analysis.
The programme will also help interns develop skills in economic forecasting, research, communication, modelling and professional report writing.
What Interns Will Learn
Successful candidates will gain practical experience in:
Economic research.
Macroeconomic analysis.
Economic forecasting.
Economic modelling.
Data analysis.
Report writing.
Professional communication.
Real-world economic problem-solving.
Data Science for Economics Pathway
The programme also offers a possible Data Science for Economics pathway for qualifying candidates.
This pathway is suitable for applicants who have strong quantitative skills and an interest in using data science tools in economics.
Candidates interested in this pathway should have experience or interest in:
Quantitative subjects.
Programming.
Coding.
Data analysis.
GitHub portfolio or profile.
These skills may be useful for graduates interested in economics, banking, finance, consulting and research careers.
Employment Opportunity
Successful candidates will be employed full-time by the South African Reserve Bank.
Interns will spend their training year at the Bureau for Economic Research in Stellenbosch from January 2027 to December 2027.
During this period, candidates will receive a competitive salary while gaining professional training and work experience.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must be South African citizens.
Applicants must have an Honours degree in Economics or a Master’s degree in Economics.
Applicants must have completed macroeconomics at postgraduate level by January 2027.
Applicants must be fluent in English.
Applicants must have excellent communication skills, strong writing abilities and good presentation skills.
Selection Process
The recruitment process is competitive.
Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete psychometric assessments.
Reference checks and security clearance processes will also form part of the selection process.
The SARB will consider employment equity and workforce diversification objectives during the selection process.
Skills That Can Strengthen Your Application
Applicants with strong skills in econometrics, statistical analysis, Python, R, SQL, Excel modelling, economic forecasting, data visualisation, research methodology, report writing and public speaking may have an advantage.
Evidence of research projects, academic awards, publications or strong quantitative work may also strengthen an application.
Career Benefits
This internship can help graduates gain valuable experience in central banking, economic research, financial services and policy-related work.
The programme may open doors to careers in government departments, economic consulting, financial institutions, research organisations, investment firms, academia and international organisations.
How to apply
Click here to apply for SARB and BER Economist Internship Programme 2027.
Applicants must apply online before the closing date.
Closing Date
The closing date for the SARB and BER Economist Internship Programme 2027 is 30 June 2026 at 09:00.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure that all required information is submitted correctly.
Final Thoughts
The SARB and BER Economist Internship Programme 2027 is a valuable opportunity for Economics graduates who want to gain practical experience in research, forecasting, analysis and economic policy work.
Graduates who meet the requirements should apply before 30 June 2026 at 09:00.
About Apply
Apply is hiring for this internship position in South Africa.
Why This Is Good for Starters
Internship positions like this one are ideal for building real-world experience. Even if you don't meet every requirement, applying shows initiative — and many employers value attitude over experience for entry-level roles.