University holidays don’t always have to be about relaxing at home or catching up on Netflix. For many students, vacation work — also known as vac work — is a golden opportunity to gain real-world experience, build your CV, and even earn some extra cash while studying.
Whether it’s a formal internship, a short work placement, or volunteering, vac work is one of the smartest moves you can make for your future career.
💡 What is Vac Work?
Vacation work is a structured programme that allows students to work at a company during their university holidays. Some positions are paid, while others focus more on training and exposure.
It’s a win-win:
- Employers get to assess potential future hires.
- Students get practical skills, industry exposure, and networking opportunities.
Most employers prefer graduates with work experience, even if it’s short-term. By doing vac work, you gain the kind of insight and interpersonal skills that a classroom can’t always provide. Plus, your supervisor can become a reference for future job applications.
👉 Related: Tips to Submitting a Bursary Application
🌟 Benefits of Vac Work
Still wondering if vac work is worth it? Here are five top reasons to apply:
1. Test Your Career Choice
Vac work allows you to try out your chosen field before committing long-term. For example, law students can experience what it’s really like at a law firm before pursuing articles.
2. Earn Extra Income
If your vac work is paid, you’ll have additional money for transport, savings, or personal expenses. Even unpaid internships offer valuable experience and mentoring that can boost your career later.
3. Gain New Experiences
Every job teaches something new. Whether you’re learning industry-specific tools or soft skills like teamwork and communication, vac work enriches your perspective.
4. Show Responsibility
Parents and guardians often want to see signs of independence. By securing a vac job, you prove that you’re responsible and career-focused.
5. Feel Accomplished
There’s nothing like the pride that comes with achieving something on your own. Even small wins at work can build confidence and prepare you for bigger opportunities.
🏢 Companies Offering Vac Work in South Africa
Here’s a list of well-known organisations that regularly run vacation programmes for students:
- Accounting & Audit Firms: PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG, BDO, SNG Grant Thornton, Moore SA
- Law Firms: Bowmans, Webber Wentzel, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, Norton Rose Fulbright, Werksmans, ENS Africa, Cox Yeats, BBM Law, TMJ Attorneys, Venns Attorneys
- Corporate & Finance: FNB, Public Investment Corporation, Allan Gray, TFG
- Engineering & Tech: Sasol, WBHO, Zutari, Hensoldt, Peralex, Psybergate
- Other Programmes: Barnaschone Attorneys, ASL, Bell Equipment, Bisset Boehmke McBlain, African Council for Graduates, Clyde & Co, Malan Scholes, Fairbridges Wertheim Becker
👉 Tip: Check company websites under “Careers” or “Students & Graduates” sections for application details and deadlines.
📌 How to Find and Apply for Vac Work
- Start early – Applications often open months before the holiday period.
- Polish your CV – Highlight academic achievements and skills.
- Write a strong motivational letter – Employers want to see your enthusiasm.
- Network – Use LinkedIn or university career centres to connect with recruiters.
- Apply widely – Don’t limit yourself to one company; cast a wide net.
👉 Related: Preparing for a Bursary Interview
Final Thoughts
Vac work is more than just a holiday job — it’s a stepping stone to your career. By the time you graduate, you’ll not only have a degree but also practical experience, references, and a professional network to help you land your first full-time role.
So, whether it’s at a top law firm, an engineering company, or a financial institution, grab the opportunity to gain real-world experience while you study. Your future self will thank you.