Discover SETA Learnerships for 2026. Free accredited training, monthly stipends, requirements, useful links and application guidance for South African youth.

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SETA Learnerships in South Africa – Your Complete 2026 Guide to Skills, Jobs, and Career Growth

For thousands of young South Africans, SETA Learnerships are one of the most powerful pathways to employment, skills development, and long-term career success. SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities) play a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and the workplace by offering structured training programmes that combine theory, practical experience, and a recognised qualification.

As South Africa continues to battle unemployment, especially among youth aged 18–35, SETA Learnerships remain one of the most valuable tools for creating real opportunities. These programmes offer more than just learning—they provide industry-specific knowledge, mentorship, workplace exposure, and in many cases, monthly stipends to help learners support themselves while studying.

If you are looking for a reliable, government-backed way to grow your career, this is the ultimate guide to SETA Learnerships in 2026 and how they can transform your future.

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⭐ What Are SETA Learnerships?

SETA Learnerships are structured training programmes designed to help individuals gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge within a specific industry. They combine:

• Classroom learning
• On-the-job training
• Workplace mentorship
• Assessments and competencies

Successful learners receive a nationally recognised qualification, registered with the NQF (National Qualifications Framework) and overseen by the QCTO.

Learnerships typically last 12 months, but some can run longer depending on the qualification.

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⭐ Why SETA Learnerships Are So Valuable

SETA Learnerships are recognised for empowering young people and job seekers by offering:

✔ Free accredited training

Most learnerships are fully funded.

✔ Monthly stipend support

Many SETA Learnerships pay stipends ranging from R3 500 – R6 000 per month.

✔ Work experience that employers want

You gain practical experience in real companies—something that makes you more employable.

✔ Nationally recognised qualifications

Learners receive NQF Level 2–5 qualifications, depending on the programme.

✔ Higher chance of long-term employment

Many companies absorb high-performing learners into permanent roles after completion.

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⭐ Types of SETA Learnerships Available

There are 21 different SETAs, each responsible for skills development in a particular sector. This means there are learnerships available across multiple industries.

1. Health and Welfare SETA (HWSETA)

For careers in:

• Nursing
• Social work
• Community health
• Pharmacy assisting
• Caregiving

2. Finance and Accounting SETA (FASSET)

Popular for:

• Accounting
• Auditing
• Financial management
• Bookkeeping

3. Transport SETA (TETA)

Covers:

• Aviation
• Freight and shipping
• Logistics
• Professional driving

4. Services SETA

One of the broadest sectors:

• HR
• Real estate
• Business administration
• Call centre (contact centre)
• Management

5. MICT SETA

Ideal for tech-driven careers:

• IT support
• Software development
• Cybersecurity
• Digital marketing
• Data capturing

6. MERSETA

Focused on engineering and manufacturing:

• Welding
• Automotive repair
• Mechatronics
• Engineering trades

7. BANKSETA

Best for:

• Banking
• Risk management
• Compliance
• Microfinance careers

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⭐ Who Can Apply for SETA Learnerships?

Most SETA Learnerships require:

• South African citizenship
• Age 18 to 35
• Grade 11 or Matric (varies by programme)
• Willingness to learn
• No application fees

People with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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⭐ Benefits of Completing a SETA Learnership

✔gain a recognised qualification

You become more employable

build workplace confidence

You may receive a monthly stipend

might get absorbed into a permanent role

SETA programmes are designed to give you a solid foundation that employers trust.

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⭐ How to Apply for SETA Learnerships in 2026

You can apply in several ways:

1. Official SETA websites

Each SETA advertises programmes throughout the year.

2. Partner companies

Banks, hospitals, engineering firms and tech companies collaborate with SETAs.

3. Online learnership portals

Many reliable websites publish verified opportunities.

4. Through openlearnership.co.za

We share updated, verified openings for youth across South Africa.

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⭐ Useful Links for SETA Learnership Applications (Official Live Links)

To make application process easier, here are trusted, official and AdSense-safe links you can use to find SETA Learnerships:

✔ SETA Official Websites

• Services SETA: https://www.serviceseta.org.za
• MICT SETA: https://www.mict.org.za
• HWSETA: https://www.hwseta.org.za
• BANKSETA: https://www.bankseta.org.za
• FASSET: https://www.fasset.org.za
• TETA: https://www.teta.org.za
• : https://www.merseta.org.za

✔ Skills Development & Verification

• SAQA: https://www.saqa.org.za
• QCTO: https://www.qcto.org.za
• https://www.dhet.gov.za

✔ Opportunity Portals

• SAYouth.mobi: https://sayouth.mobi
• Indeed SA: https://za.indeed.com

These links will help you access accredited programmes safely, quickly and without any fees.

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⭐ Tips to Increase Your Chances of Being Accepted

✔ Prepare certified documents

Write a strong motivation letter

✔ Apply early

Apply for several SETAs, not just one

Keep your CV updated and professional

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⭐ Common Questions About SETA Learnerships

Do they pay a stipend?

Yes. Many offer R3 500 – R6 000 per month.

Can I apply without Matric?

Yes. Some accept Grade 10 or Grade 11.

Are SETA Learnerships free?

Absolutely—never pay to apply.

Do I need experience?

No. These programmes are made for unemployed youth.

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⭐ Why SETA Learnerships Matter for the Future of South Africa

SETA Learnerships play a major role in:

• Reducing unemployment
• Strengthening economic growth
• Providing free accredited skills
• Empowering young people
• Supporting workplace readiness

They are one of the government’s most impactful skills development tools.

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⭐ Final Thoughts

SETA Learnerships are the perfect opportunity for young South Africans who want to build real skills, gain workplace experience and earn a recognised qualification—all without paying fees. Whether you’re passionate about health, finance, tech, engineering, or business, there is a SETA programme designed for you.

Keep checking official SETA websites and openlearnership.co.za for the latest updates, and apply as early as possible to secure your place.

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openlearnership.co.za Disclaimer

openlearnership.co.za is not a recruitment agency and does not hire learners. We simply share verified opportunities to help South Africans access education and career development. Always apply directly to the organisation offering the learnership. We do not charge any fees.