SAIPA Professional Accountant Trainee Learnership 2026
A three-year SAQA-registered training programme at a SAIPA Approved Training Centre leading to the Professional Accountant (SA) designation, for BCom Accounting graduates who want articles.
Apply for the SAIPA Professional Accountant Trainee Learnership
Provider: South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) • National
Program Overview
Program Details
Key Benefits
- ✓NQF Level 8 accredited qualification
- ✓Real workplace experience with a recognised employer
- ✓Stipend: Trainee package
- ✓Mentorship and structured on-the-job training
- ✓Strong pathway toward permanent employment
Entry Requirements
- ✓Employment under a training contract at a SAIPA Approved Training Centre (ATC) — an accounting firm registered with SAIPA (mandatory)
- ✓A BCom (or equivalent) degree in Accounting, completed or in progress, from a recognised/accredited university
- ✓Required core academic subjects: Financial Accounting 3, Taxation 2, Auditing/Internal Auditing 2, Corporate/Commercial Law, and Management Accounting 2
- ✓Certified copies of degree/academic record and ID, plus the signed employment/training contract
- ✓Payment of the trainee administration fee (R346.16) via the SAIPA online application portal
Career Opportunities
On successful completion, learners can pursue roles such as:
How to Apply
Check the requirements
Confirm you meet every entry requirement before you apply.
Prepare your documents
Certified ID, matric certificate / qualifications, CV and any supporting documents.
Apply online
Submit your application via the official South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) careers portal.
Assessments & interview
Shortlisted candidates complete assessments and interviews.
Placement
Successful learners sign a learnership agreement and begin the programme.
⚠️ Good to Know
DURATION is the one clear factual contradiction. The official SAIPA "Trainee Accountants" page states the learnership/training contract runs for 3 YEARS (not the "12 months" in the existing listing). After the 3-year contract trainees write the Professional Evaluation (PE) exam to qualify as a Professional Accountant…
• Only shortlisted candidates are typically contacted — check the official portal for the latest intake dates.
• Learnerships are aimed at unemployed South African youth; preference is often given to candidates from designated groups.
• Beware of scams — GoCareers never charges for applications, and neither do legitimate employers.
Ready to apply?
Head to the official South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) careers portal to submit your application.
Apply for the SAIPA Professional Accountant Trainee Learnership →