Introduction
Not passing matric or leaving school early can feel like the end of the road for many young South Africans. Society often places heavy emphasis on Grade 12 as the minimum requirement for success, which can make those without matric feel excluded from opportunities.
However, the reality is very different.
In South Africa, there are learnerships that do not require matric and are specifically designed to help individuals who have Grade 9, Grade 10, or Grade 11 enter the workforce, gain skills, and earn recognised qualifications. These programmes exist to ensure that lack of matric does not permanently limit a person’s future.
This article provides a detailed, honest, and realistic guide to learnerships that do not require matric. You will learn what these learnerships are, who qualifies, which industries offer them, how to apply, and how they can still lead to long-term career growth.
Can You Get a Learnership Without Matric?
Yes.
You can get a learnership without matric.
Many learnerships in South Africa are registered at lower NQF levels, which means they do not require a Grade 12 certificate. These programmes focus more on practical skills, workplace readiness, and hands-on learning rather than academic performance.
Learnerships without matric are particularly aimed at:
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School leavers who did not complete Grade 12
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Youth who left school early due to financial or personal reasons
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Individuals who struggled academically but are motivated to work
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People seeking entry-level employment and skills
Why Learnerships Without Matric Exist
Learnerships were introduced to address skills shortages and unemployment, not only academic progression. The goal is to create multiple pathways into employment, not just one.
These learnerships exist because:
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Not all careers require matric-level academics
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Many industries need practical, hands-on workers
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Work ethic and commitment matter as much as qualifications
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Skills can be built progressively over time
For many people, a learnership without matric is the first step, not the final destination.
Understanding NQF Levels (Simple Explanation)
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) is used to classify qualifications in South Africa.
Learnerships that do not require matric are usually registered at:
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NQF Level 1
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NQF Level 2
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NQF Level 3
These levels are designed for entry-level learners and focus on:
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Foundational skills
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Workplace behaviour
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Basic technical abilities
You can move up the NQF levels over time, even without matric.
Who Can Apply for Learnerships Without Matric?
Learnerships without matric are open to many people, including:
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Youth aged 18–35
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Individuals with Grade 9, 10, or 11
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Unemployed individuals
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People with no formal work experience
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Individuals seeking practical skills
Each learnership has its own criteria, but matric is not always a requirement.
Common Entry Requirements
Although matric is not required, applicants usually need:
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A South African ID
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Basic literacy (reading and writing)
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Basic numeracy skills
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Willingness to learn and work
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Availability for the full duration of the learnership
Some programmes may include assessments to check basic skills.
Industries That Offer Learnerships Without Matric
Several industries offer learnerships that focus on practical skills rather than academic qualifications.
Common Fields Include
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Wholesale and Retail
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Cleaning and Hygiene Services
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Security Services
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Agriculture and Farming
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Construction (entry-level)
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Manufacturing and Production
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Hospitality (basic roles)
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Logistics and Warehousing
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Community and Social Services
These sectors rely heavily on hands-on work, making them suitable for learners without matric.
📌 Example of Entry-Level Learnership Environments
(This image represents a generic, professional training environment, similar to Shutterstock editorial stock, and aligns with entry-level learnerships.)
How Long Do These Learnerships Last?
Most learnerships without matric last:
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12 months
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In some cases, 6 to 18 months
The duration depends on:
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The qualification level
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The industry
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Workplace requirements
These are fixed-term programmes, meaning they end after completion.
Do Learnerships Without Matric Pay?
Yes.
Learners receive a monthly stipend, not a salary.
Typical Stipend Ranges
For learnerships without matric:
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R2,000 – R3,000 per month
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Sometimes slightly higher depending on funding
Stipends are intended to help with:
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Transport
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Meals
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Basic living costs
They are usually tax-free for unemployed learners.
Are These Learnerships Legitimate?
Yes, as long as they are:
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Registered with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs)
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Offered by accredited training providers
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Linked to recognised employers
Legitimate learnerships never charge fees.
How to Apply for Learnerships Without Matric
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
You will usually need:
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Updated CV
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Certified copy of your ID
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Proof of highest grade passed
Certification should be recent.
Step 2: Create a Basic CV
Even without matric or experience, your CV can include:
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Education level
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Skills (communication, teamwork, physical work)
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Volunteer work or informal experience
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Willingness to learn
Keep it honest and simple.
Where to Find These Learnerships
Reliable places include:
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Company career pages
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Accredited training providers
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SETA announcements
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Community notice boards
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Trusted platforms like learners247.co.za
Avoid unverified sources that ask for payment.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
Many applicants are rejected due to:
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Missing documents
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Applying without meeting requirements
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Submitting poor-quality CVs
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Ignoring instructions
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Falling for scams
Attention to detail improves your chances.
Learnership Scams to Watch Out For
Red flags include:
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Requests for application fees
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Promises of guaranteed jobs
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Poorly written adverts
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No contact details
Always verify before applying.
What Happens After You Complete the Learnership?
After completion, learners may:
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Be offered permanent employment
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Gain work experience for future jobs
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Progress to higher NQF learnerships
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Continue education through alternative routes
Completion opens more doors than doing nothing.
Can You Still Build a Career Without Matric?
Yes.
Many people build successful careers by:
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Starting with entry-level learnerships
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Gaining experience
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Progressing through skills-based qualifications
Matric is not the only path to success.
Learnerships vs Adult Education Options
Some learners choose to:
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Complete a learnership first
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Later return to complete matric or equivalent
This combination can strengthen long-term opportunities.
Why Persistence Matters
Finding a learnership without matric may take time. Successful learners often:
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Apply multiple times
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Improve their CVs
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Stay informed
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Remain patient
Opportunities exist, but persistence is essential.
The Role of learners247.co.za
Websites like learners247.co.za help by:
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Sharing verified opportunities
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Educating learners on processes
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Reducing misinformation
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Supporting informed decision-making
Accurate information empowers learners.
Final Thoughts
Not having matric does not mean you have no future. Learnerships without matric provide a realistic, practical, and legitimate pathway into the workforce for many South Africans. They offer skills, experience, income, and recognised qualifications that can change your direction over time.
If you are willing to commit and learn, a learnership can be the first step toward building a stable and meaningful career.