SETA Learnerships That Don’t Require Matric
Not having a Matric certificate does not necessarily mean the end of your career journey. While many South African learnerships require a Grade 12 qualification, several Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and employers also offer programmes that accept applicants with Grade 9, Grade 10, Grade 11 or an equivalent qualification, depending on the occupation.
These opportunities are designed to help unemployed South Africans gain practical workplace experience and nationally recognised qualifications while developing skills that employers value.
Before applying, always read the official advert carefully, as entry requirements differ from one programme to another.
What Are SETA Learnerships?
SETAs work with employers and training providers to develop skills in different sectors of South Africa’s economy. Learnerships combine classroom-based training with practical workplace experience and usually lead to a nationally recognised qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Some programmes are aimed at school leavers without Matric, while others require higher qualifications.
SETAs That Sometimes Offer Learnerships Without Matric
Depending on the employer and qualification level, opportunities may be available through:
- AgriSETA
- CETA (Construction Education and Training Authority)
- FoodBev SETA
- Fibre Processing & Manufacturing SETA (FP&M SETA)
- MERSETA
- Services SETA
- TETA (Transport Education Training Authority)
- EWSETA
- W&RSETA (Wholesale and Retail SETA)
Entry requirements vary for each programme, so always check the official vacancy before applying.
Types of Learnerships That May Accept Applicants Without Matric
Depending on the employer, opportunities may include:
- General Worker Learnerships
- Retail Learnerships
- Wholesale and Distribution
- Warehouse Operations
- Security Learnerships
- Cleaning and Hygiene Services
- Hospitality Learnerships
- Agriculture Learnerships
- Forestry Programmes
- Manufacturing Learnerships
- Food Processing
- Call Centre Learnerships
- Customer Service
- Freight and Logistics
- Construction Trades
Many of these programmes require Grade 9 or Grade 10 instead of Grade 12, particularly where the qualification is registered at lower NQF levels.
Common Requirements
Although requirements differ, applicants are often expected to:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be unemployed.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old (where applicable).
- Have Grade 9, Grade 10 or Grade 11, depending on the programme.
- Be able to read and write English.
- Have a valid South African ID.
- Be willing to complete both classroom and workplace training.
Salary / Stipend
Most SETA learnerships provide a monthly stipend to assist learners with transport and basic living expenses.
Salary/Stipend: Varies depending on the employer and programme.
Documents You Should Prepare
- Updated CV
- Certified South African ID copy
- Latest school report or highest qualification
- Proof of residence (if requested)
- SARS tax number (if requested)
- Bank confirmation letter (if requested)
Why You Should Apply
A learnership can help you:
- Gain recognised workplace experience.
- Develop practical job skills.
- Earn a monthly stipend where offered.
- Improve your employability.
- Obtain an accredited qualification.
- Build confidence for future employment opportunities.
Even if you do not yet have Matric, completing a learnership can strengthen your CV and open pathways to further education and training.
How to Find Legitimate SETA Learnerships
To improve your chances:
- Visit official SETA websites regularly.
- Monitor employer careers pages.
- Apply only through official recruitment channels.
- Read all eligibility requirements carefully.
- Submit complete applications before the closing date.
Expert Guidance
Career Advice by Mbalizuke Nkosi
Career expert Mbalizuke Nkosi advises applicants without Matric not to assume they are automatically disqualified from every opportunity. Many employers recruit for learnerships based on the qualification required for a specific occupation rather than Grade 12 alone. Read each advert carefully, prepare a professional CV, and apply only for opportunities where you meet the stated minimum requirements. Continue improving your qualifications through Adult Education and Training (AET) or other recognised programmes where possible.
Explore Related Opportunities
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse these categories to find your perfect fit:
Career pathway planning
| Explore More Opportunities Here | 2026 |
| Internships | Bursaries |
| Learnerships | SETAs |
| General Worker Jobs | Career Guides |
| Apprenticeships | Student News |
| Scholarships | Fellowships |
| Government Vacancies | Training Programmes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a learnership without Matric?
Yes. Some employers and SETAs offer learnerships that require Grade 9, Grade 10 or Grade 11 instead of Matric.
Do all SETA learnerships accept applicants without Matric?
No. Many programmes require Grade 12, while others have lower entry requirements. Always check the official advert.
Will I receive a stipend?
Many learnerships offer a monthly stipend, but the amount differs depending on the employer.
Can I apply if I only completed Grade 10?
Yes, if the specific learnership lists Grade 10 as the minimum requirement.
Which industries offer learnerships without Matric?
Retail, hospitality, agriculture, logistics, manufacturing, construction, security and some service industries may offer opportunities depending on the programme.
Are these qualifications nationally recognised?
Most SETA learnerships lead to qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Where can I find verified learnerships?
Visit official employer websites, SETA websites and trusted opportunity platforms like YouthScope.
Disclaimer
YouthScope shares employment, internship, bursary and learnership opportunities from official employers to help South Africans access career opportunities. We are not the recruiting organisation and do not charge any application fees. Always verify information on the employer’s official website before submitting your application.
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
For inquiries or support, please contact admin@youthscope.co.za.
