Complete Guide to Learnerships in South Africa
Your comprehensive roadmap to finding, applying for, and succeeding in learnership programs. From SETA requirements to career pathways and everything in between.
Learnership Quick Facts
Duration:
12-24 months typically
Stipend Range:
R3,500 - R8,000 per month
Outcome:
NQF qualification + work experience
Complete Guide Contents
What Are Learnerships?
A learnership is a structured learning program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical workplace experience, leading to a nationally recognized qualification. It's designed to develop skills needed by the South African economy while providing participants with employment opportunities.
Benefits for Learners
- • Earn while you learn (monthly stipend)
- • Gain practical work experience
- • Obtain nationally recognized qualification
- • No upfront costs or study fees
- • High chance of permanent employment
- • Mentorship and career guidance
Key Components
- • Structured learning program (theory)
- • Workplace experience (practical)
- • Mentorship and supervision
- • Assessment and evaluation
- • Unit standards and qualifications
- • Employment equity compliance
Types of Learnerships Available
🏭 Technical & Engineering
Manufacturing, mining, engineering, and technical fields requiring specialized skills.
Popular Programs:
- • Electrical Engineering
- • Mechanical Engineering
- • Welding and Fabrication
- • Automotive Technology
- • Mining Operations
Leading SETAs:
- • Manufacturing SETA (merSETA)
- • Mining Qualifications Authority
- • Energy and Water SETA
- • Transport SETA
💼 Business & Finance
Administrative, financial, and business management skills for corporate environments.
Key Areas:
- • Banking and Finance
- • Human Resources
- • Marketing and Sales
- • Project Management
- • Supply Chain Management
Major Employers:
- • Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank
- • Shoprite, Pick n Pay
- • MTN, Vodacom
- • Government departments
💻 IT & Digital
Technology, software development, and digital skills for the modern economy.
High-Demand Skills:
- • Software Development
- • Data Analytics
- • Cybersecurity
- • Network Administration
- • Digital Marketing
Growth Potential:
- • 35% industry growth annually
- • R25,000+ starting salaries
- • Remote work opportunities
- • International career paths
Eligibility Requirements
General Requirements
While requirements vary by program, most learnerships have similar baseline criteria for applicants.
✅ Basic Requirements
- • South African citizen or permanent resident
- • Age 18-35 (some programs extend to 40)
- • Matric certificate (Grade 12)
- • Unemployed or underemployed
- • Clear criminal record
- • Medically fit for work
📋 Additional Criteria
- • Meet Employment Equity targets
- • Specific subject requirements
- • Minimum academic performance
- • Language proficiency
- • Physical requirements (if applicable)
- • Geographic location preferences
Priority Groups
These groups often receive preferential consideration for learnership positions:
- • Youth (18-35 years)
- • People with disabilities
- • Rural and township residents
- • Previously disadvantaged individuals
- • NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training)
- • Single parents and heads of households
Step-by-Step Application Process
Research Available Programs
Identify learnerships that match your interests, qualifications, and career goals.
Where to Find Opportunities:
- • SETA websites and portals
- • Company career pages
- • Government job portals
- • Career guidance centers
- • Social media announcements
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documentation before starting your applications.
Essential Documents:
- • Certified ID copy
- • Matric certificate
- • Academic transcripts
- • Updated CV
Additional Documents:
- • Proof of residence
- • Affidavit of unemployment
- • Medical certificate
- • References (3 minimum)
Submit Applications
Apply to multiple programs to increase your chances of success.
Application Tips:
- • Apply early - programs fill up quickly
- • Follow instructions exactly
- • Tailor your CV for each application
- • Keep copies of all submissions
- • Meet all deadlines
Assessment & Selection
Most programs include multiple assessment stages to select the best candidates.
Initial Screening
Document verification and eligibility check
Assessments
Aptitude tests, interviews, group activities
Final Selection
Reference checks and final interviews
Top Learnership Opportunities 2025
Standard Bank Learnerships
Banking & Finance • 12-18 months
Comprehensive banking training with guaranteed employment opportunities.
Sasol Engineering
Chemical & Process Engineering • 24 months
World-class engineering training in petrochemicals and energy.
MTN Technology
IT & Telecommunications • 12 months
Cutting-edge tech skills in Africa's leading telecommunications company.
Shoprite Group
Retail Management • 18 months
Retail operations, management, and supply chain expertise.
Tips for Learnership Success
Before You Start
- • Research the company and industry thoroughly
- • Set clear learning goals and career objectives
- • Prepare mentally for the learning curve
- • Build basic computer and communication skills
- • Network with current and former learners
During Your Learnership
- • Maintain excellent attendance and punctuality
- • Be proactive in seeking additional learning opportunities
- • Build strong relationships with mentors and colleagues
- • Document your learning and achievements
- • Seek feedback regularly and act on it
- • Participate actively in all training components
Completion & Beyond
- • Ensure you meet all qualification requirements
- • Apply for permanent positions early
- • Maintain professional relationships
- • Continue learning and skill development
- • Consider further education or specialization
- • Mentor new learners when possible
Ready to Start Your Learnership Journey?
Don't wait for opportunities to pass you by. Start your application process today and build the career you've always wanted.