---

How to Apply for MERSETA Funded Learnerships in South Africa: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

MERSETA funded learnerships play a critical role in addressing skills shortages in South Africa’s manufacturing, engineering, and technical sectors. These learnerships are designed to provide unemployed youth and qualifying applicants with structured learning that combines theoretical knowledge and practical workplace experience, leading to nationally recognised qualifications.

This pillar guide explains what MERSETA funded learnerships are, who qualifies, how to apply step by step, and what to expect after applying. It is intended to serve as a reliable reference point for learners and to support related cluster content published on openlearnership.co.za.

---

What Are MERSETA Funded Learnerships?

MERSETA stands for the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority. It is one of South Africa’s SETAs, established in terms of the Skills Development Act, to facilitate skills development in its designated sectors.

MERSETA funded learnerships are structured training programmes that:

• Are registered with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)
• Lead to a nationally recognised qualification
• Combine classroom learning with on-the-job workplace training
• Are funded through skills development levies paid by employers

Learners who are accepted into these programmes usually receive a monthly stipend to support them during the learnership period.

---

Why MERSETA Learnerships Are Important

MERSETA learnerships are designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. Many young people leave school with theoretical knowledge but lack workplace experience. These programmes address that gap by offering:

• Practical skills aligned with industry needs
• Exposure to real work environments
• Improved employability after completion
• Access to scarce and critical skills occupations

For employers, MERSETA learnerships help build a skilled workforce and support transformation and compliance objectives.

---

Who Can Apply for MERSETA Funded Learnerships?

Eligibility requirements vary depending on the specific learnership and training provider. However, most MERSETA funded learnerships share common criteria.

General Eligibility Criteria

Applicants are usually required to:

• Be a South African citizen
• Be unemployed at the time of application
• Be between 18 and 35 years old
• Have a valid South African ID
• Meet the minimum education requirement for the programme

Educational Requirements

Depending on the learnership level, you may need:

• Grade 10 or Grade 11
• Matric (Grade 12)
• Mathematics and/or Physical Science for technical programmes

Some programmes also consider applicants with relevant NCV or TVET qualifications.

---

Sectors Covered by MERSETA Learnerships

MERSETA funded learnerships are available in various fields, including but not limited to:

• Mechanical engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Welding and fabrication
• Fitting and turning
• Automotive manufacturing
• Toolmaking
• Metal production
• Boiler making
• Mechatronics

Each learnership is aligned with an occupation registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

/seta-learnerships-interview-questions-in-2026/

---

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for MERSETA Funded Learnerships

Step 1: Understand the Type of Learnership You Are Applying For

Before applying, it is important to understand:

• The qualification level
• The duration of the learnership
• The career path it supports
• The entry requirements

This helps you avoid applying for programmes you do not qualify for and improves your chances of being shortlisted.

---

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Most MERSETA funded learnership applications require the following documents:

• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of highest qualification
• Updated CV
• Proof of address
• Bank confirmation letter (in some cases)
• Disability confirmation letter, if applicable

Ensure documents are:

• Clearly scanned
• Recently certified
• Saved in commonly accepted formats such as PDF

---

Step 3: Find Legitimate MERSETA Funded Learnership Opportunities

MERSETA does not recruit learners directly. Applications are handled through:

• Accredited training providers
• Employers participating in MERSETA programmes
• Public and private companies

Legitimate opportunities are often advertised on:

• Company career portals
• Training provider websites
• Official social media pages
• Trusted learnership information platforms such as openlearnership.co.za

Always verify that the learnership is MERSETA funded and that the provider is accredited.

---

Step 4: Read the Learnership Advertisement Carefully

Each advert contains critical information, including:

• Closing date
• Application method
• Required qualifications
• Location of training
• Contact details

Failure to follow instructions exactly as stated may result in automatic disqualification.

---

Step 5: Submit Your Application Correctly

Applications may be submitted through:

• Online application forms
• Email submissions
• Employer recruitment portals

When submitting your application:

• Use a professional email address
• Name your documents clearly
• Double-check attachments before sending

Avoid submitting multiple applications to the same provider unless instructed otherwise.

---

Step 6: Wait for Shortlisting and Communication

After the closing date, training providers or employers will shortlist candidates. If shortlisted, you may be invited to:

• Complete literacy or numeracy assessments
• Attend interviews
• Submit additional documents

Not all applicants will receive feedback due to high volumes of applications.

---

Step 7: Sign the Learnership Agreement

Successful applicants are required to sign a learnership agreement, which is a legal document involving:

• The learner
• The employer or training provider
• MERSETA

This agreement outlines learner responsibilities, training duration, stipend arrangements, and assessment requirements.

---

Step 8: Start the Learnership Programme

Once registered, learners begin structured training that includes:

• Classroom-based learning
• Practical workplace exposure
• Continuous assessments

Learners who meet all requirements and complete the programme successfully receive a nationally recognised qualification.

---

How Long Do MERSETA Learnerships Last?

Most MERSETA funded learnerships last between 12 and 24 months, depending on the qualification level and occupational requirements.

---

Do MERSETA Learnerships Guarantee Employment?

MERSETA learnerships do not guarantee permanent employment. However, they significantly improve employability by providing:

• Practical experience
• Industry-recognised qualifications
• Workplace references

Some learners may be absorbed by host employers based on performance and business needs.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

• Applying without meeting minimum requirements
• Submitting incomplete documents
• Missing application deadlines
• Paying application or placement fees

MERSETA funded learnerships are free to apply for. Any request for payment should be treated with caution.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the minimum qualification for MERSETA learnerships?

The minimum qualification depends on the programme. Some require Grade 10, while others require Matric with specific subjects.

Can I apply if I am studying?

Most MERSETA funded learnerships are intended for unemployed applicants. Studying applicants are usually not eligible unless stated otherwise.

Are MERSETA learnerships paid?

Yes, most programmes offer a monthly stipend, but the amount varies depending on the programme and funding structure.

How often are MERSETA learnerships advertised?

There is no fixed schedule. Opportunities depend on employer participation and funding availability.

Can I apply for more than one learnership?

Yes, as long as you meet the requirements and follow each application’s instructions.

How do I know if a learnership is legitimate?

Legitimate learnerships are offered through accredited providers and do not charge application fees.

---

Disclaimer – OpenLearnership.co.za

OpenLearnership.co.za is an independent informational platform that publishes learnership and skills development information for public benefit. We are not affiliated with MERSETA and do not recruit or select learners. All applications must be submitted directly to official training providers or employers.

---