Find and apply for legitimate learnerships.

Where to find current learnerships

Start with official programme owners. Check SAYouth, the relevant SETA directory on gov.za, employer career pages and the government opportunities linked from our official resources hub. An advert is current only when its official page still shows an open closing date.

How to check a learnership advert

1. Confirm the employer, SETA or training provider on its own official website.
2. Check the closing date, province, age or employment-status rules, qualification level and required subjects.
3. Read whether the programme leads to a registered qualification and whether workplace placement is included.
4. Confirm the stipend only from the official advert or written agreement.
5. Use the official application link—never a social-media inbox or a person asking for payment.

Documents to prepare

• A short, accurate CV with Matric, NQF level, subjects, projects, volunteering and any informal work that is relevant.
• Your ID and qualification records only through the secure channel named by the programme.
• A tailored application letter when requested.
• Proof of address or employment status only when the official requirements ask for it.

Start with the free South African CV template and the application-letter guide.

Learnership scam warning

A legitimate application should not require a placement fee, payment for an interview, or money to “unlock” a stipend. Be cautious when the only contact is WhatsApp, the email domain does not match the organisation, or the advert asks for banking PINs. Use the South African job-scam checklist before sharing documents.

Questions people ask

What is a learnership?

A learnership combines structured learning with practical workplace experience and leads to a registered qualification. The employer or programme advert sets the entry requirements and application process.

Do learnerships pay a stipend?

Many do, but the amount and conditions differ. Treat only the amount in the official advert or agreement as confirmed, and never pay someone to release a stipend.

Can I apply without work experience?

Often yes. Many programmes are designed for unemployed young people or first-time entrants, but age, qualification, location and employment-status rules vary by advert.

Where should I apply?

Apply on the official employer, SETA, SAYouth, government or training-provider page named in the advert. Verify the organisation and never submit bank details or pay an application fee.

Do I need a CV?

Most applications ask for a CV and proof of qualifications. Use a simple truthful CV and follow the advert if it asks for an application letter, certified copies or a specific online form.

More free guides

Z83 form guide · How to write a CV · Free CV template · Cover letter · Interview questions · Learnerships · Salary and offers · Job-scam checks · CV vs job ad review

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