Introduction
Unemployment, lack of work experience, and limited access to affordable education remain some of the biggest challenges facing young people in South Africa. Many school leavers and graduates find themselves stuck in a cycle where they cannot get a job without experience, yet they cannot gain experience without a job.
This is where learnerships come in.
A learnership is one of the most practical and accessible ways for South Africans to gain skills, earn an income, and obtain a nationally recognised qualification at the same time. Whether you have just finished matric, dropped out of university, or are already working and want to upgrade your skills, learnerships offer a structured pathway into the job market.
This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about learnerships, how they work, who qualifies, how to apply, and why they are such an important opportunity for learners across the country.
What Is a Learnership?
A learnership is a work-based learning programme that combines formal education with practical workplace experience. It is regulated by South African law and leads to a registered qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Unlike traditional study programmes, learnerships are designed to ensure that learners:
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Gain theoretical knowledge
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Develop real job skills
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Apply what they learn in a real working environment
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Receive a monthly stipend
A learnership is not just a course — it is a contractual agreement between:
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The learner
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The employer
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An accredited training provider
How Learnerships Work
Learnerships follow a structured model that blends learning and work.
1. Theoretical Training
This part of the programme takes place through:
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Classroom sessions
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Online learning
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Workshops or short courses
The training provider delivers the curriculum aligned with the qualification. Learners complete assignments, tests, and assessments as part of this component.
2. Practical Workplace Training
Learners are placed with an employer where they:
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Perform real job duties
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Learn industry-specific skills
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Receive workplace mentorship
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Build professional experience
This practical exposure is what makes learnerships so valuable to employers.
3. Assessments and Moderation
Throughout the learnership, learners are assessed on both:
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Knowledge (theory)
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Skills (practical tasks)
Once all requirements are met, the qualification is submitted for certification.
4. Qualification Awarded
After successful completion, learners receive a nationally recognised qualification registered on the NQF.
How Long Does a Learnership Last?
Most learnerships run for:
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12 months (one year)
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18 months
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24 months (two years)
The duration depends on:
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The NQF level
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The industry
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The specific qualification requirements
Learnerships are fixed-term contracts, meaning they end once the programme is completed.
What Is the National Qualifications Framework (NQF)?
The NQF is a system that classifies and standardises qualifications in South Africa. It ensures that all qualifications meet national quality standards.
Learnerships typically fall between:
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NQF Level 1 (basic entry-level)
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NQF Level 6 (advanced vocational qualifications)
This makes learnership qualifications transferable and recognised by employers across the country.
Who Can Apply for a Learnership?
Learnerships are open to a wide range of applicants.
1. School Leavers
If you have:
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Grade 9, 10, 11, or
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Matric (Grade 12)
You may qualify for entry-level learnerships.
2. Unemployed Youth
Many learnerships specifically target unemployed young people aged 18–35.
3. TVET College Students and Graduates
Learnerships help bridge the gap between college education and real work experience.
4. University Graduates
Graduates often use learnerships to gain practical experience when they struggle to enter the job market.
5. Employed Individuals
Some learnerships are designed for employees who want to:
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Upskill
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Change careers
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Gain formal qualifications
6. People With Disabilities
There are dedicated learnerships that support skills development for people living with disabilities.
Entry Requirements for Learnerships
Requirements differ depending on the programme, but commonly include:
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South African ID
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Relevant school or tertiary certificates
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Age limits (usually 18–35 for youth programmes)
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English literacy and numeracy skills
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Availability for the full duration of the learnership
Some learnerships require matric, while others accept lower grades.
Do Learnerships Pay a Salary?
Learnerships do not pay a salary. Instead, learners receive a monthly stipend.
What Is a Stipend?
A stipend is a fixed allowance meant to cover basic expenses such as:
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Transport
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Meals
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Daily living costs
Average Learnership Stipends
Stipends vary depending on:
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The employer
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The SETA funding the programme
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Whether the learner is employed or unemployed
Typical ranges:
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R2,000 – R3,000 per month (entry-level)
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R3,000 – R5,000 per month (higher NQF levels)
Stipends are usually tax-free for unemployed learners.
Are Learnerships Free?
Yes. Learnerships are fully funded.
Learners:
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Do not pay tuition fees
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Do not pay registration costs
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Do not pay for assessments
In many cases, learning materials are also provided.
What Industries Offer Learnerships?
Learnerships are available across many sectors in South Africa.
Common Learnership Fields
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Business Administration
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Finance and Accounting
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Information Technology
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Engineering and Technical Trades
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Construction
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Manufacturing
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Hospitality and Tourism
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Wholesale and Retail
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Healthcare and Social Services
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Logistics and Supply Chain
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Call Centre and Customer Service
New learnership opportunities are created every year based on skills shortages.
Learnerships vs Internships vs Apprenticeships
Many people confuse these programmes. Here is a clear comparison.
Learnerships
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Lead to a formal qualification
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Combine theory and work
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Offer a stipend
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Usually 12–24 months
Internships
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Focus mainly on workplace experience
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May or may not offer a qualification
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Often shorter (6–12 months)
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Sometimes unpaid
Apprenticeships
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Trade-focused (artisan skills)
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Longer duration
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Strong practical emphasis
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Lead to trade tests
Each programme serves a different purpose.
Why Learnerships Are Important in South Africa
Learnerships play a key role in national development.
1. Reducing Unemployment
They help young people enter the workforce with experience.
2. Addressing Skills Shortages
Industries gain trained workers in scarce skills areas.
3. Improving Access to Education
Learnerships allow people to study without student debt.
4. Supporting Economic Growth
A skilled workforce strengthens the economy.
What Happens After Completing a Learnership?
After completing a learnership, learners may:
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Be offered permanent employment by the host company
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Use the qualification to apply for jobs elsewhere
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Continue studying at a higher NQF level
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Start a small business using acquired skills
While employment is not guaranteed, learnerships significantly improve employability.
How to Apply for Learnerships in South Africa
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
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Updated CV
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Certified copy of ID
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Certified copies of qualifications
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Proof of address (if required)
Step 2: Search for Opportunities
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Company career pages
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Training provider websites
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SETA announcements
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Job portals
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Social media pages
Step 3: Apply Early
Learnerships are competitive and fill up quickly.
Step 4: Attend Assessments and Interviews
Some programmes require:
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Aptitude tests
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Interviews
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Group assessments
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
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Applying without meeting minimum requirements
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Submitting incomplete applications
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Using an unprofessional CV
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Missing deadlines
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Falling for learnership scams
Always verify opportunities before applying.
Are Learnerships Legitimate?
Yes. Legitimate learnerships are:
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Registered with SETAs
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Delivered by accredited training providers
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Offered by recognised companies
You should never pay money to secure a learnership.
Learnership Myths Explained
Myth: Learnerships are only for matriculants
Truth: They are available at multiple qualification levels
Myth: Learnerships guarantee a job
Truth: They improve chances but do not guarantee employment
Myth: Learnerships are low-quality education
Truth: They are nationally regulated and accredited
Can You Do More Than One Learnership?
Yes, as long as:
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You meet entry requirements
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The learnerships are at different NQF levels
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You complete each programme successfully
Tips for Succeeding in a Learnership
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Treat it like a real job
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Be punctual and professional
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Ask questions and learn actively
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Complete assignments on time
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Build relationships in the workplace
Your attitude matters as much as your skills.
Why Learners247.co.za Is a Valuable Resource
Websites like learners247.co.za play an important role by:
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Sharing updated learnership information
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Educating learners about opportunities
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Helping applicants avoid scams
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Supporting youth development
Reliable information makes a real difference.
Final Thoughts
Learnerships are one of the most powerful tools available to South Africans who want to build a career without the burden of expensive education. They offer a practical, affordable, and recognised pathway into employment while allowing learners to earn an income and gain experience.
If you are serious about improving your future, a learnership could be the stepping stone you need.