Learnerships 2026 in South Africa
A learnership combines workplace training with classroom study to deliver a nationally recognised NQF qualification. Learners earn a monthly stipend (typically R4,500 - R9,500) for 12-36 months, and many complete with a permanent job offer. Below are the major 2026 learnership programmes at South Africa's largest employers - state-owned enterprises, banks, retailers, and mining houses.
Legitimate learnerships never charge application fees. Any WhatsApp message, SMS, or social media post asking for money to "secure a placement" or "reserve a spot" is a scam. Apply only through each company's official careers portal (linked on every page below).
Banking & Financial Services
Government & Public Sector
Insurance & Financial Services
Petrochemicals & Mining
Telecommunications & IT
Transport & Logistics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a learnership in South Africa?
A learnership is a structured learning programme that combines workplace training with theoretical study at an accredited college or training provider. It leads to a recognised qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), typically Level 2, 4, or 5. Learners earn a stipend during the programme and often receive a permanent job offer on successful completion.
How much do learnerships pay in South Africa?
Learnership stipends in 2026 typically range from R4,500 to R9,500 per month depending on the employer, sector, and NQF level. Entry-level retail learnerships pay around R4,500/month; technical (artisan) learnerships R5,500-R7,500/month; banking and corporate learnerships R7,000-R9,500/month. SETA-funded learnerships follow the minimum stipend rates published annually by the Department of Higher Education.
What qualifications do I need to apply for a learnership in 2026?
Minimum requirement for most learnerships is Grade 12 (matric). Technical and artisan learnerships usually require Grade 11 or 12 with passes in mathematics and physical science. Graduate programmes require a completed degree or diploma. Age requirements vary but are typically 18-35, with some banking and government programmes capping at 30.
When do learnerships for 2026 open in South Africa?
Most large companies advertise learnership intakes between January and April each year, targeting recent matriculants and students. Graduate programmes often open February-July. Bursaries for 2027 studies open June-August 2026. Check each employer's official careers portal for current intakes - legitimate learnerships are never advertised only via WhatsApp or Facebook.
Are learnerships the same as internships or apprenticeships?
No. A learnership is a formal structured programme leading to an NQF qualification with both workplace and classroom training. An internship is typically shorter, focused on workplace experience for an existing qualification, and may not lead to a new qualification. An apprenticeship is trade-specific and leads to a Red Seal trade test for artisan qualifications - artisan learnerships in South Africa essentially combine learnership and apprenticeship.
Related Pages
Learnership details are compiled from official company careers portals, SETA publications, and public programme announcements. Always confirm current intakes, requirements, and application windows with the relevant company.
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