Learnerships 2026 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.

Verified published stipends in 2026 range from approximately R3,000/month (entry-level retail like Shoprite Money Market YES) to R8,500/month (Capitec Better Champion). Most employers do not publish a stipend amount publicly; the rate is confirmed when you receive an offer. See our stipends comparison page for the full verified list.

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.

Most large companies advertise learnership intakes between January and April each year, targeting recent matriculants and students. Some run rolling pipelines (Capitec, Pepkor, Massmart) with intakes throughout the year. Graduate programmes often open February-July. Check each employer's official careers portal for current intakes - legitimate learnerships are never advertised only via WhatsApp or Facebook.

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.