Good news for unemployed South African youth. SETA-accredited learnerships for 2026 are now open, offering free training, recognised qualifications, and monthly stipends for eligible applicants.
SETA Learnerships 2026 quietly opened in South Africa this month, and many applicants are already applying without meeting the basic requirements.
Every year, thousands of young South Africans miss out on funded learnership opportunities simply because they apply late or submit incomplete applications.
Below is a verified list of SETA learnerships currently open for 2026, who qualifies, and how to apply online before deadlines close.
What Are SETA Learnerships?
SETA Learnerships are structured training programmes funded and overseen by South Africa’s Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). These programmes combine:
-
Theoretical learning (classroom or online)
-
Practical workplace experience
-
A nationally recognised qualification
Learnerships are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and are designed to address skills shortages in different economic sectors such as finance, ICT, health, construction, hospitality, manufacturing, and public services.
Why SETA Learnerships Matter in 2026
With youth unemployment still a major challenge, SETA Learnerships in 2026 continue to offer:
-
Skills that match real industry needs
-
Monthly stipends for unemployed learners
-
Work experience that improves employability
-
Recognised qualifications without tuition fees
For many applicants, a SETA learnership is the first step into formal employment.
Who Can Apply for SETA Learnerships 2026?
While requirements differ slightly depending on the SETA and qualification, most SETA Learnerships share the following minimum eligibility criteria:
General Requirements
-
South African citizen
-
Aged 18–35 years (some programmes allow older applicants)
-
Unemployed or employed (depending on programme type)
-
Not currently registered for another learnership
Educational Requirements
-
Grade 12 (Matric) is usually required
-
Some learnerships accept Grade 10 or Grade 11
-
Certain technical programmes may require:
-
Mathematics
-
Physical Science
-
Relevant subjects related to the field
-
Types of SETA Learnerships Available in 2026
Different SETAs focus on specific sectors. Common learnership categories include:
Each SETA publishes its own opportunities through official platforms and partner training providers.
How to Apply for SETA Learnerships 2026 Online
There is no single central SETA application website. Applications are submitted through:
-
Individual SETA official websites
-
Accredited training providers
-
Employer partners
-
Youth platforms like SA Youth (for some programmes)
Step-by-Step Application Process
-
Identify the Correct SETA
Choose a SETA aligned with your career interest (e.g. ICT, finance, construction). -
Check Official Announcements
Only apply through verified SETA or training provider channels. -
Prepare Your Documents
-
Certified copy of ID
-
Certified Matric certificate or latest results
-
Updated CV
-
Proof of residence (sometimes required)
-
-
Complete the Online Application
-
Fill in all details accurately
-
Upload documents in the required format
-
Avoid duplicate applications unless allowed
-
-
Submit Before the Closing Date
Late applications are not considered.
How Companies Benefit From SETA Learnerships
- Claim back 20%-70% training costs
- Workplace-based learning requirements
- ROI of learnership programmes
- HR compliance checklist
When Do SETA Learnerships 2026 Open?
Most SETA Learnerships for 2026 open between late 2025 and mid-2026, depending on funding cycles and sector demand.
👉 Important:
-
Some learnerships open without prior notice
-
Closing dates can change
-
Applications may close early once quotas are filled
Applicants are advised to check official sources regularly.
How Much Is the SETA Learnership Stipend?
Stipends vary based on qualification level and funding, but typically range between:
-
R2,500 – R4,500 per month
The stipend is intended to support basic expenses such as transport and meals. It is not a salary.
Employment & Funding
- Skills Development Levy
- Employment Benefits
- Grant Funding
- Accreditation compliance
What Is the Skills Development Levy (SDL) in South Africa?
The Skills Development Levy (SDL) is a compulsory 1% payroll contribution paid by most South African employers to fund workplace training and skills development. Introduced under the Skills Development Act, the levy is collected by the South African Revenue Service and distributed to Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). Employers who submit a Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and an Annual Training Report (ATR) can claim a portion of their levy back through mandatory and discretionary grants.
-
Skills Development Levy South Africa, SDL 1%, claim back SDL, SETA grants
What Are Employment Benefits in South Africa?
Employment benefits in South Africa refer to additional compensation provided to employees beyond their basic salary. These may include paid leave, medical aid contributions, pension or provident fund benefits, bonuses, and structured training opportunities. In programmes like internships and learnerships, employment benefits often include a monthly stipend, practical work experience, and nationally recognised qualifications that improve long-term career prospects.
-
Employment benefits South Africa, employee benefits, internship benefits, learnership stipend
How Does Grant Funding Work in South Africa?
Grant funding in South Africa provides financial support to employers and training providers to implement approved skills development programmes. SETAs allocate grant funding to companies that comply with reporting requirements and submit training plans. There are two main types: mandatory grants (claimed back from SDL contributions) and discretionary grants (awarded for priority skills programmes). Grant funding helps reduce training costs while promoting youth employment and workplace development.
-
SETA grant funding, mandatory grant, discretionary grant, skills development funding
What Is Accreditation Compliance in Skills Development?
Accreditation compliance ensures that a training provider meets national quality standards before offering accredited qualifications. In South Africa, accreditation is overseen by bodies such as the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and relevant SETAs. Compliance confirms that training programmes are legitimate, aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), and recognised by employers.
-
Accredited training provider in South Africa, QCTO accreditation, NQF compliance, SETA accreditation
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many applicants are rejected due to avoidable errors:
-
Applying through unofficial websites
-
Uploading unclear or uncertified documents
-
Providing incorrect contact details
-
Ignoring qualification requirements
-
Copy-pasting CVs with errors
Taking time to submit a complete and accurate application improves your chances.
What Happens After You Apply?
After submission:
-
Applications are screened
-
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted
-
Assessments or interviews may follow
-
Successful applicants sign a learnership agreement
-
Training and workplace placement begin
⚠️ Not all applicants are contacted due to high demand.
Are SETA Learnerships Legit?
Yes. SETA Learnerships are government-regulated programmes under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
However, applicants should be cautious of:
-
Fake agents asking for payment
-
Social media scams
-
WhatsApp “guaranteed placement” claims
No legitimate SETA learnership requires an application fee.
How Companies Benefit From SETA Learnerships
- Claim back 20%-70% training costs
- Workplace-based learning requirements
- ROI of learnership programmes
- HR compliance checklist
Final Advice for 2026 Applicants
SETA Learnerships are competitive, but preparation makes a difference. Keep your documents ready, monitor official platforms, and apply early.
If you are serious about gaining skills and work experience in 2026, a SETA learnership can be a powerful opportunity.
Lazarous Xulu is a South Africa–based youth development and career content writer with a strong focus on learnerships, skills development programmes, employment opportunities, and education pathways. He specialises in creating clear, accurate, and accessible information that helps young people understand government and SETA-supported opportunities.
With experience covering topics such as SA Youth initiatives, funded learnership programmes, career guidance, and job-readiness, Lazarous is committed to sharing verified and practical information that supports informed decision-making. His work prioritises accuracy, inclusivity, and alignment with official platforms to ensure readers access trustworthy opportunities.
Through sa-youth.org.za, Lazarous aims to empower South African youth with knowledge that improves employability and supports long-term career growth.
