A learnership is one of the best opportunities available to young South Africans. It allows you to earn a monthly stipend, gain real work experience, and walk away with a nationally recognised qualification — all at the same time. This guide covers everything you need to know about learnerships in 2026.
What is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured work-based learning programme that combines theory and practical training. It is registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and leads to a qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Learnerships are funded by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and hosted by companies across South Africa.
The key difference between a learnership and an internship is that a learnership results in a formal qualification, while an internship is typically just work experience. Learnership stipends typically range from R2,500 to R6,000 per month depending on the sector and NQF level.
Who Qualifies for a Learnership?
- South African citizens aged 18–35 (most programmes)
- Unemployed individuals — most learnerships specifically target unemployed youth
- Grade 9 minimum for NQF Level 1 and 2 learnerships
- Grade 12 / Matric for NQF Level 3 and above
- Some learnerships require specific subjects — check each one carefully
💡 Good news: Many learnerships do NOT require matric. If you have Grade 9 or Grade 10, you can still qualify for NQF Level 1 and Level 2 learnerships in fields like agriculture, cleaning, hospitality, and general services.
Types of Learnerships Available in South Africa
| Sector | SETA | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Finance & Banking | INSETA / FASSET | Short-term insurance, banking, financial planning |
| IT & Technology | MICT SETA | Systems development, IT support, networking |
| Agriculture | AgriSETA | Crop production, animal production, agri-business |
| Construction | CETA | Bricklaying, plumbing, electrician, carpentry |
| Hospitality | CATHSSETA | Accommodation, food & beverage, tourism |
| Retail | W&R SETA | Retail management, wholesale, distribution |
| Education | ETDP SETA | ECD practitioner, training and development |
| Mining | MQA | Drilling, blasting, engineering, safety |
Where to Find Learnerships
SAJobsNow Learnerships Page
Browse all current learnerships on our Learnerships page. We update listings daily from company websites and SETA portals.
SETA Websites
Visit the website of the SETA that covers your industry of interest. Each SETA publishes available learnerships on their site. Key SETAs: AgriSETA, MICT SETA, INSETA, W&R SETA, CATHSSETA, CETA, MQA, ETDP SETA.
Company Career Pages
Large companies like Absa, Standard Bank, MTN, Eskom, Transnet, Shoprite, and Anglo American run their own learnership programmes. Check their career pages regularly, especially from January to March when most programmes open.
Subscribe to Job Alerts
Subscribe to our free job alerts and select "Learnerships" as your category. You'll be notified the moment a new learnership is posted.
How to Apply for a Learnership — Step by Step
- Find a suitable learnership — match it to your qualifications, age, and location
- Read the requirements carefully — make sure you qualify before applying
- Prepare your documents:
- Updated CV (see our CV writing guide)
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copy of your highest qualification
- Proof of residence (utility bill or affidavit)
- Academic results (if required)
- Write a cover letter — explain why you want this specific learnership and what you bring to it
- Apply before the closing date — late applications are almost never accepted
- Follow up — if you haven't heard back within 2 weeks of the closing date, send a polite follow-up email
⚠️ Scam Warning: Legitimate learnerships are FREE to apply for. You will NEVER be asked to pay a registration fee, training fee, or any other fee to participate in a learnership. If anyone asks you to pay money, it is a scam. Report it immediately.
What Happens During a Learnership?
Most learnerships run for 12 months, though some can be 18 or 24 months. During this time you will split your time between theoretical classroom training and practical on-the-job experience at the host company. You will need to build a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) and complete assessments. At the end of the programme, you receive your NQF qualification.
Your stipend is paid monthly and is not a salary — you are not an employee. However, many learnership participants are offered permanent employment after completing their programme, especially if they performed well.
Tips for a Successful Learnership Application
- Apply for multiple learnerships at the same time — the acceptance rate is competitive
- Tailor your cover letter for each application — generic letters are easily spotted
- Apply as early as possible — many programmes close before the deadline when positions are filled
- Make sure your documents are certified — uncertified copies are a common reason for rejection
- Follow the application instructions exactly — some programmes require online applications, others accept email or walk-ins
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