NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027: Applications Open for South African Graduates

Who can apply

• NTT DATA states that the programme is ideally suited to recent graduates aged 26 and younger who want to launch careers in the technology industry.
• Information Technology;
• Commerce;
• Engineering; or
• a related field.
• Applicants should assess their qualification against the wording of the official vacancy rather than assuming that every Diploma or Degree automatically qualifies.
• Graduates who want to investigate where their qualifications could potentially lead can use the Edupstairs Career & Qualification Explorer.
• The Explorer brings South African OFO occupations and SAQA qualification records together, allowing graduates to investigate careers, qualifications, NQF levels and career-to-qualification connections.
• Applicants should have completed, or be due to complete by December 2026, a three-year Diploma or Degree in Information Technology, Commerce, Engineering or a related field.
• Can Information Technology graduates apply?
• Use the Edupstairs Career & Qualification Explorer to investigate South African careers, OFO occupations, SAQA qualifications, NQF levels and career-to-qualification connections.
• Which SETA is relevant to ICT careers?

How to apply

Applications are submitted directly to NTT DATA Young Talent - we do not collect applications. Read the eligibility criteria, prepare your supporting documents, then complete your application on the official page.

Full details

Recent graduates who want to start a career in technology, engineering, business or a related professional field should look at the NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027.

The programme is based in Johannesburg, Gauteng. It gives recent graduates practical work experience, along with structured learning, mentorship, industry-recognised certifications and exposure to real business projects.

NTT DATA is mainly looking for graduates who have completed a three-year Diploma or Degree in Information Technology, Commerce, Engineering or a related field, or who will complete one by December 2026.

Successful candidates start as Associate Graduates. They work alongside experienced professionals and build technical, professional and leadership skills.

NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027: Quick Overview

What Is the NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme?

The NTT DATA Graduate Programme is meant to help graduates move from tertiary education into a professional technology and business environment.

It is not just a chance to watch experienced staff at work.

Graduates are expected to take part in real business initiatives and in operational and project work. They also apply what they learned while studying to workplace problems.

The programme includes several kinds of development, such as:

• hands-on work experience;
• structured learning;
• industry-recognised certifications;
• mentorship;
• practical business projects;
• technical development;
• professional development;
• leadership development; and
• exposure to technology and business solutions.

A graduate who has spent several years on a Diploma or Degree but has little work experience may find this kind of programme helpful. It can close the gap between what you learn in class and what you can do at work.

Who Can Apply for the NTT DATA Graduate Programme 2027?

NTT DATA says the programme suits recent graduates aged 26 and younger who want to start a career in the technology industry.

Applicants should have completed a three-year Diploma or Degree in the following fields, or be due to complete one by December 2026:

Check your qualification against the wording of the official vacancy. Do not assume that every Diploma or Degree qualifies.

If you want to see where your qualifications could lead, you can use the Career and Qualification Explorer.

The explorer brings together South African OFO occupations and SAQA qualification records. You can look at careers, qualifications, NQF levels and how careers connect to qualifications.

Information Technology Graduates

The programme is especially relevant to graduates who want to work in South Africa's technology industry.

Depending on your qualification, skills and placement, technology careers can include areas such as:

• Software Development;
• Information Technology;
• Information Systems;
• Business Analysis;
• Cloud Computing;
• Cybersecurity;
• Data;
• Networking;
• IT Support;
• Infrastructure;
• Systems Administration;
• Digital Transformation;
• Technology Consulting; and
• related ICT careers.

Do not assume the programme guarantees a place in one specific technical job. NTT DATA describes the opportunity more broadly, across its business units and functions.

Before you apply, use the Career and Qualification Explorer to research jobs such as Software Developer and other ICT careers.

Commerce Graduates

You do not need a computer science or IT degree to apply.

NTT DATA specifically includes Commerce as a qualifying field.

Commerce is a broad field. It may cover business, management, finance, information systems and other commercial subjects.

Still, compare your exact qualification with the official requirements before you apply.

Technology companies need more than developers and engineers.

Large technology organisations can include professional functions such as:

business operations → finance → project management → consulting → sales → commercial management → human resources → procurement → customer operations → technology.

So if you are a Commerce graduate who wants to work in technology, do not rule out graduate programmes at technology companies.

Engineering Graduates

NTT DATA names Engineering as a qualifying field.

Depending on your qualification and the business needs, engineering graduates can bring useful skills in areas such as:

• analytical thinking;
• systems thinking;
• mathematical problem solving;
• technical design;
• project work;
• process improvement;
• data analysis;
• technology;
• infrastructure; and
• structured problem solving.

The official advert does not promise every engineering graduate a particular engineering role.

Apply based on the programme requirements and the opportunities NTT DATA makes available.

What Will NTT DATA Graduates Do?

NTT DATA describes the programme as a practical workplace development opportunity.

Associate Graduates can expect to work alongside experienced professionals and subject-matter experts.

1. Gain Practical Workplace Experience

Graduates will be fully part of a professional work environment.

This can help you understand workplace expectations, professional communication, how organisations are structured and how large business and technology projects run.

1. Contribute to Real Business Projects

Participants are expected to help with actual business initiatives, not just learn through classroom training.

Working with experienced professionals lets graduates see how theory is applied to real organisational problems.

1. Complete Structured Learning and Certifications

A useful feature of the programme is that it combines work experience with structured development.

NTT DATA says graduates can build their technical and professional skills through:

• structured learning pathways;
• certifications; and
• on-the-job experience.

Industry-recognised certifications may strengthen your professional profile alongside your Diploma or Degree.

1. Participate in Operational and Project Activities

Graduates may take part in operational and project work linked to the business unit or function where they are placed.

Your experience may be different from another graduate's, depending on where you are placed.

1. Apply Academic Knowledge

Graduates are expected to use what they learned in theory to deal with business problems and support solutions.

This step matters.

University and college teach concepts, methods and technical principles.

At work, you must apply those ideas under real deadlines, business needs, client expectations and organisational processes.

1. Work With Colleagues, Clients and Stakeholders

NTT DATA expects graduates to work well with people across the organisation.

Communication and building good relationships matter as much as technical skill.

1. Participate in Community Initiatives

Graduate participants may also get involved in corporate social responsibility and volunteer projects.

Skills NTT DATA Is Looking For

Qualifications matter, but NTT DATA also looks for certain personal strengths.

Applicants should show:

• curiosity;
• willingness to learn;
• a growth mindset;
• adaptability;
• strong problem-solving ability;
• initiative;
• accountability; and
• the ability to build positive working relationships.

When you write your CV, think of real examples from university, college, projects, volunteering, student groups or earlier work that show these strengths.

Do not just write that you are a problem solver.

Where you can, show proof through projects, responsibilities, achievements and practical experience.

Applicants Outside Johannesburg Must Consider Relocation

The programme is based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

NTT DATA states that applicants who do not live in Johannesburg must be willing to move there at their own cost.

Take this condition seriously.

Before you apply, if you live outside Gauteng, think about the costs of:

• relocation;
• accommodation;
• deposits;
• transportation;
• daily commuting; and
• general living expenses.

Do not assume NTT DATA will cover these costs unless the employer clearly confirms it.

Explore ICT Careers Through the SETA Platform

If you are interested in technology, it helps to know the role of MICT SETA in South Africa's skills development system.

MICT SETA covers sectors linked to media, information and communication technologies.

The SETA platform brings together South Africa's 21 SETAs. It lists workplace development pathways such as internships, graduate placements, Work Integrated Learning, learnerships, skills programmes, apprenticeships and occupational qualifications.

Technology graduates can use the platform to look at pathways in areas such as:

• software development;
• IT support;
• cloud computing;
• cybersecurity;
• data science;
• Internet of Things;
• digital technologies;
• graduate internships;
• Work Integrated Learning; and
• other ICT-related development programmes.

You can also look for graduate placement opportunities on the SETA platform.

This matters because graduates should not depend on just one employer.

A stronger plan looks like this:

Career → Qualification → Skills → Graduate Programme → Workplace Experience → Certifications → Professional Career

University Students Planning for Technology Careers

If you have not graduated yet but want to join a programme like NTT DATA's graduate intake, start planning before your final year.

Use the University Explorer to look at university programmes, admission requirements and study pathways.

If you are interested in technology and related careers, you can look at qualifications in areas such as:

• Information Technology;
• Computer Science;
• Information Systems;
• Software Engineering;
• Computer Engineering;
• Electronic Engineering;
• Data Science;
• Business Information Systems;
• Commerce; and
• related fields.

Do not choose a qualification just because it sounds employable.

Start with the career you want, then understand the qualification route, then look at institutions that offer suitable programmes.

What About TVET College Graduates?

NTT DATA's advertised minimum requirement is a three-year Diploma or Degree in Information Technology, Commerce, Engineering or a related field.

If you studied at a TVET college, check your qualification carefully. Do not assume an N6 certificate meets the requirements.

TVET College students interested in technology, engineering and business can use the TVET College Explorer to look at vocational study pathways across South Africa's 50 public TVET Colleges.

TVET students who need workplace experience should also look at WIL and workplace development opportunities on the SETA platform.

How to Apply for the NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027

Applications are handled through NTT DATA's official recruitment platform.

The programme reference is: R-149466

Closing date: 9 October 2026

Check the official NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027 recruitment page to confirm the current status.

Documents to Prepare

You must follow whatever documents NTT DATA asks for through its recruitment system.

As general preparation for any graduate application, it helps to have these ready:

• updated CV;
• South African ID or relevant identification documentation;
• Matric certificate;
• Diploma or Degree certificate, if already completed;
• academic transcript;
• proof of current or final-year studies where applicable;
• relevant professional or technical certifications; and
• any additional documentation requested by NTT DATA.

If you finish your qualification during 2026, make sure your CV clearly shows your expected completion date.

How to Strengthen Your NTT DATA Application

Do not send a generic graduate CV.

The programme focuses strongly on learning, technology, business exposure, problem solving and professional development.

Your CV should make your relevant skills easy to spot.

Depending on your qualification, consider showing real experience in areas such as:

• programming;
• software projects;
• networking;
• databases;
• cloud technologies;
• cybersecurity;
• data analysis;
• engineering projects;
• business analysis;
• information systems;
• financial or commercial analysis;
• university group projects;
• leadership;
• presentations;
• problem solving;
• volunteering; and
• relevant certifications.

Academic projects count when you do not yet have work experience.

If you built an application, designed a database, completed an engineering design project, analysed a business problem or took part in a major group project, you have evidence that can show practical skill.

Latest Internships and Graduate Opportunities

Keep searching after you apply to NTT DATA.

Several internships and graduate opportunities have been published recently.

UNISA Finance Asset Management Internship Programme 2026 - X3 Opportunities for Accounting Graduates

UNISA is offering three Finance: Asset Management internships for qualifying Accounting graduates.

Office of the Chief Justice Graduate Internship Programme 2026 - X29 Opportunities

The Office of the Chief Justice is recruiting unemployed graduates in Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, Risk Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Law and related fields.

Gauteng Tourism Authority Internship Programme 2026

This opportunity is for graduates in Digital Media, Multimedia Design, Graphic Design, Digital Communications, Marketing, Journalism, Film and Television Production, Public Relations and related fields.

Shoprite Supply Chain Graduate Programme 2026

Shoprite's programme offers nationwide opportunities for graduates in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research and related disciplines.

Discovery HR Administrator WIL Programme 2026

Discovery is offering HR workplace learning opportunities that suit TVET N6 Human Resources students who need practical work experience.

Marsh Graduate Programme 2027

The Marsh Graduate Programme offers graduate development opportunities in fields including risk, insurance, engineering, law, finance and technology.

iMasFinance Learning and Development Internship Programme 2026

This 12-month programme in Centurion is for unemployed graduates with a three-year Diploma or Degree in Human Resources Development or a related qualification.

Feltex Finance Graduate Training Programme 2026

Feltex is offering a Graduate Trainee Finance opportunity in Rosslyn for graduates in Finance, Accounting, Financial Management and related fields.

If you are interested in technology, also look at the Microsoft Internship Programme 2026. It includes several South African graduate opportunities in technology and business functions.

Tools you may find useful:

View Other Employment Opportunities here

Need Help?

The NTT DATA programme is worth a careful look if you are completing an Information Technology, Commerce, Engineering or related Diploma or Degree in 2026.

But the best approach is not this:

NTT DATA application → wait.

Try a wider approach:

Identify your career → understand your qualification → build relevant technical skills → apply for suitable graduate programmes → keep applying → gain workplace experience → earn relevant certifications → build your professional career.

Use the Career and Qualification Explorer to see where your qualification could take you.

Use the University Explorer if further study is part of your plan.

Use the TVET College Explorer to look at vocational and occupational study pathways.

Use the SETA platform to look at internships, WIL, graduate placements, learnerships, apprenticeships and skills development programmes across South Africa's 21 SETAs.

Most importantly, keep applying to opportunities that truly match your qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027?

It is a graduate development programme that helps recent graduates enter the workplace through practical experience, structured learning, mentorship, certifications and exposure to business and technology projects.

1. Where is the programme based?

The advertised programme is based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

1. What is the reference number?

The reference number is R-149466.

1. What qualifications are required?

Applicants should have completed a three-year Diploma or Degree in Information Technology, Commerce, Engineering or a related field, or be due to complete one by December 2026.

Yes. Information Technology is specifically listed as a qualifying field.

1. Can Commerce graduates apply?

Yes. Commerce is specifically included.

1. Can Engineering graduates apply?

Yes. Engineering is specifically listed as a qualifying field.

1. Can final-year students apply?

The advertisement says applicants may have already completed their qualification or be due to complete it by December 2026.

1. Is there an age requirement?

NTT DATA says the opportunity is ideally suited to recent graduates aged 26 and younger.

Read the official wording carefully. Do not read this more broadly than the employer states.

1. What if I don't live in Johannesburg?

NTT DATA states that applicants who do not live in Johannesburg must be willing to relocate at their own cost.

1. Does the programme include certifications?

Yes. NTT DATA says graduate development includes structured learning and industry-recognised certifications.

1. Will graduates work on real projects?

Yes. Participants are expected to help with real business initiatives and take part in operational and project activities.

1. Can TVET College students apply?

Compare your exact qualification with NTT DATA's requirement for a three-year Diploma or Degree in IT, Commerce, Engineering or a related field. Do not assume an N6 certificate meets the requirement.

TVET students can use the TVET College Explorer and the SETA platform to look at more workplace pathways.

1. Where can I research ICT careers and qualifications?

Use the Career and Qualification Explorer to look at South African careers, OFO occupations, SAQA qualifications, NQF levels and how careers connect to qualifications.

MICT SETA is most relevant to skills pathways in information, communications, media and technology.

1. What is the advertised closing date?

The indexed NTT DATA vacancy lists 9 October 2026.

However, check the current vacancy status right away. NTT DATA's main careers page currently says the position has been filled.

1. Where do I apply?

Use the official NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027 page and check whether the application function is still available.

You can also:

Disclaimer

This guide is based mainly on the NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027 recruitment information for reference R-149466, together with extra career and education research.

Vacancies can be updated, withdrawn or filled before the advertised deadline.

We do not recruit candidates for NTT DATA, receive applications, decide eligibility or guarantee interviews, selection or employment.

Never pay anyone who says they can secure an NTT DATA graduate position, interview or application for you.

Editorial Integrity

The official programme details in this guide, including the Johannesburg location, reference number R-149466, full-time status, qualification fields, the December 2026 completion requirement, the preferred graduate age, the relocation condition, programme responsibilities, development structure and the advertised closing date, come from NTT DATA's recruitment information.

The application status warning reflects a difference found between NTT DATA's official recruitment pages at the time of publication.

References to the Career and Qualification Explorer, University Explorer, TVET College Explorer, SETA platform, MICT SETA pathways, application preparation and recently published internships are extra guidance to help you look at wider career, education and workplace development opportunities.

The publisher is a registered non-profit organisation, NPO No: 232 - 182, PBO: 930066984. It never asks people for money or CVs for jobs. Watch out for fake job posts and recruitment fraud, and check a posting with a scam detection tool before you apply.

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