2026/2027 Guide to South Africa 21 SETAs: Learnerships, Bursaries

If you want a learnership, apprenticeship, bursary, skills programme, internship or workplace training in South Africa for 2026 or 2027, the SETA system is the place to start right now.

What the SETA system offers

South Africa has 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). Each SETA focuses on a specific economic sector – from agriculture and banking to information technology, mining, health, government, transport and retail. By working with the right SETA you can access funded training, recognised qualifications, workplace experience and sometimes financial support.

Who can apply

The system is open to:

• Unemployed youth and recent matriculants
• TVET College students
• University graduates
• Current employees seeking up‑skilling
• Anyone aspiring to become an artisan or tradesperson

Eligibility varies by programme – some require only Grade 12, others need specific TVET results, a driver’s licence or proof of residence in a particular province.

What you gain

• Structured learning combined with real workplace exposure
• Nationally recognised qualifications on the NQF
• Possible stipends or allowances (amounts differ per programme)
• Access to apprenticeships, learnerships, bursaries, skills programmes and work‑integrated learning
• Pathways into high‑demand sectors of the economy

How to apply (step‑by‑step)

1. Identify the sector you want to work in.
2. Find the SETA that covers that sector (see the list below).
3. Search the SETA SA platform for relevant programmes – learnerships, apprenticeships, bursaries, skills programmes or work‑integrated learning.
4. Check whether the programme is currently open for applications.
5. Read the eligibility criteria carefully and note the required documents.
6. Prepare a clear CV, certified ID copy, matric or TVET results, proof of residence and any other requested paperwork.
7. Submit your application through the method stated in the official advertisement (usually the SETA’s portal, the employer’s site or an accredited training provider).
8. Keep a copy of your submission and any reference numbers.
9. Continue looking for other opportunities – don’t rely on one application alone.

Tips to improve your chances

• Match your qualifications exactly to the programme’s NQF level.
• Tailor your motivation letter to the sector and the specific SETA.
• Gather all supporting documents before you start the application.
• Apply early – many programmes have limited places and close quickly.
• Use the SETA SA Eligibility Checker to confirm which SETAs match your background.
• Stay alert for scams; only apply via official SETA or employer links.

Which SETA matches your career goal?

Below is the full list of the 21 SETAs and the industries they serve. Click on the programme hub links in the SETA SA platform for detailed opportunities.

1. AgriSETA – Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority

   Best for: Farming, horticulture, animal production, grain, poultry, seed, sugar, rural development and related fields.

   Opportunities include learnerships, artisan development, bursaries, skills programmes, graduate placements, work‑integrated learning, agricultural entrepreneurship and mentorship.

2. BANKSETA – Banking Sector Education and Training Authority

   Best for: Banking, financial services, credit, risk, compliance, financial planning and digital banking.

   Key programmes: Letsema Post‑Matric Learnership (for unemployed matriculants) and Kuyasa Postgraduate Learnership (for unemployed graduates).

3. CATHSSETA – Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport SETA

   Best for: Tourism, hospitality, conservation, gaming, lotteries, sport, recreation, arts and culture.

   Offers learnerships, bursaries, internships, skills programmes and some artisan pathways.

4. CETA – Construction Education and Training Authority

   Best for: Construction, civil engineering, building, plumbing, plant operations, roads, infrastructure and related trades.

   Targeted at TVET students and aspiring artisans, with apprenticeship and artisan‑development options.

5. CHIETA – Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority

   Best for: Chemical manufacturing, petroleum, pharmaceuticals, plastics, rubber, fertilisers and glass.

   Supports learnerships, apprenticeships, artisan development, bursaries, internships and skills programmes.

6. ETDP SETA – Education, Training and Development Practices SETA

   Best for: Education, training and development careers.

   Relevant for anyone aiming to become a teacher, trainer or learning‑development specialist.

7. EWSETA – Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority

   Best for: Electricity generation, transmission, renewable energy, water treatment, sanitation and related technical occupations.

   Includes learnerships, apprenticeships, bursaries and specialised green‑skills programmes.

8. FASSET – Finance and Accounting Services SETA

   Best for: Accounting, finance, auditing, taxation, bookkeeping and management consulting.

   Provides pathways at various NQF levels – from bookkeeping to internal auditing.

9. FoodBev SETA – Food and Beverages Manufacturing SETA

   Best for: Baking, dairy, meat processing, cereals, confectionery, brewing, beverages, seafood, packaging and food labs.

   Offers learnerships, apprenticeships, artisan development and skills programmes.

10. FP&M SETA – Fibre Processing and Manufacturing SETA

    Best for: Clothing, textiles, forestry, furniture, footwear, leather, printing, publishing, packaging, pulp and paper.

    Supports learnerships, apprenticeships, bursaries and workplace programmes.

11. HWSETA – Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority

    Best for: Healthcare, social development, community care, welfare services and occupational health and safety.

    Ideal for health‑sciences and social‑development students.

12. INSETA – Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority

    Best for: Short‑term and long‑term insurance, reinsurance, claims, underwriting, risk management, financial advice, investments and retirement funds.

    Includes learnerships, internships, bursaries and skills programmes.

13. LGSETA – Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority

    Best for: Municipal administration, finance, governance, water and sanitation, waste management, roads, community services, planning, fire & rescue, disaster management and digital local government.

    Crucial for anyone seeking a career in municipal or local‑government services.

14. merSETA – Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA

    Best for: Metal and engineering, automotive manufacturing, motor retail, tyre and plastics manufacturing, components production.

    Provides apprenticeships, learnerships, artisan development, green‑economy skills and more.

15. MICT SETA – Media, Information and Communication Technologies SETA

    Best for: IT, telecommunications, electronics, advertising, film, digital content and 4IR skills such as software development, data science, cybersecurity, cloud, IoT, drones and 3D printing.

16. MQA – Mining Qualifications Authority

    Best for: Mining, mineral processing, metallurgy, engineering trades, geology, mine health and safety and environmental management.

    Mining companies often use learnerships, apprenticeships, internships and bursaries to build pipelines.

17. PSETA – Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority

    Best for: National and provincial government, public administration, finance, policy, monitoring & evaluation, international relations, office administration and digital government.

18. SASSETA – Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority

    Best for: Policing, corrections, defence, legal services, justice, private security, intelligence, metro policing and traffic law enforcement.

19. Services SETA

    Best for: Business services, project and event management, real estate, personal care, recruitment, marketing, contact centres, cleaning, postal services, domestic services and other service‑industry occupations.

20. TETA – Transport Education Training Authority

    Best for: Aerospace, maritime, rail, road freight, passenger transport, freight handling, forwarding, clearing and taxi industries.

21. W&RSETA – Wholesale and Retail SETA

    Best for: Retail, wholesale, sales, merchandising, distribution, supply‑chain, retail management, fuel retail and service‑station operations.

Choosing the right SETA

Don’t pick a SETA just because you saw a learnership advertised. Start with your career goal and match it to the appropriate SETA. Below is a quick reference table.

If you are still unsure, use the SETA SA Programme Eligibility Checker on the platform. It asks about your education, circumstances and goals and suggests relevant SETAs and pathways.

Matriculants: Why SETA learnerships matter

You do not need a university degree to benefit from the SETA system. Many learnerships and occupational‑training programmes accept Grade 12 applicants, while others cater to different NQF levels. Always read each advert carefully – some require Grade 10, others need specific TVET subjects, a driver’s licence or residence in a particular province.

TVET College students

If you are studying at a TVET College, knowing the SETA linked to your programme can unlock apprenticeships, artisan development, work‑integrated learning, workplace placements, internships, skills programmes and learnerships. Use the SETA SA TVET Colleges Explorer to find public TVET colleges and their associated programmes.

Understanding NQF levels

Qualifications are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Levels such as NQF 2, 4, 5 and 6 indicate the depth of learning. Consult the platform’s “NQF Levels Explained” guide before applying if you are unfamiliar with these numbers.

Are SETA learnerships paid?

Some funded programmes provide a stipend or allowance, but the amount varies by programme, funding window, qualification, employer and regulatory rules. Do not rely on generic statements like “all SETA learnerships pay R5 000”. Always check the specific advertisement for payment details. The same principle applies to bursaries – each funding package differs.

Application timeline for 2026/2027

There is no single universal application form for all SETA programmes. Applications may be handled by the SETA, an employer, an accredited training provider, a TVET college, a university, a municipality, a government department or another implementing organisation. Before you apply, read the official programme notice and follow the indicated submission method.

Documents to prepare early

• Updated CV
• Certified ID copy (or as instructed)
• Matric certificate
• Academic record or TVET results (N4, N5, N6)
• Diploma or degree certificates
• Proof of residence
• Driver’s licence (if required)
• Disability documentation (if requested)
• Motivation letter (if asked)

Keep electronic copies that are clear and easy to upload.

Important reminder

Finding a programme in the SETA SA platform does not mean the intake is open. Funding windows, employer recruitment drives and training‑provider intakes open and close at different times. Always verify:

• Is there an active intake?
• Who is recruiting?
• What is the closing date?
• What are the exact requirements?
• Where must the application be submitted?

Why use the SETA SA platform?

The platform consolidates all 21 SETAs, more than 1,000 programme records, learnership pathways, apprenticeships, bursaries, skills programmes, internships, work‑integrated learning, qualification information and NQF‑level details. You can search by SETA, programme type, qualification, career field or NQF level. This makes it useful for both active applications and long‑term career planning.

Helpful tools

• SETA SA Programme Eligibility Checker
• TVET Colleges Explorer
• NQF Levels Explained guide
• Career and Qualification Explorer

Advice for 2026/2027 applicants

One of the biggest mistakes is searching only for the word “learnership”. Start with your career objective. If you aim to become an electrician, look for electrical qualifications, apprenticeships, artisan development and the relevant SETAs. If you want a career in cybersecurity, explore MICT SETA, digital‑skills programmes and IT qualifications. If mining interests you, investigate MQA and the mining companies’ bursaries, learnerships and apprenticeships. For municipal work, understand LGSETA and the skills municipalities need.

Your goal should be to build a sustainable career pathway, not just to “get a learnership”. Begin your research on the SETA SA platform, then apply for the active opportunities that match your chosen pathway.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many SETAs are there in South Africa?

   There are 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities, each covering a different sector of the economy.

2. Where can I find all 21 SETAs in one place?

   Browse them through the SETA SA platform.

3. Can I apply for a SETA learnership with just Matric?

   Some learnerships accept Matric applicants, but requirements differ by qualification, employer and programme.

4. Can unemployed people apply for SETA programmes?

   Yes. Many programmes target unemployed participants, while others are for already employed learners. Check the specific eligibility.

5. Do SETAs offer apprenticeships?

   Yes. Apprenticeship and artisan‑development pathways exist in construction, manufacturing, engineering, mining, chemicals, food manufacturing, energy and other technical sectors.

6. Do SETAs offer bursaries?

   Several SETAs support bursary or study‑funding programmes in sector‑relevant fields, subject to active funding windows and eligibility criteria.

7. Which SETA is best for IT?

   MICT SETA is the primary authority for information technology, telecommunications, electronics, advertising, film and electronic media.

8. Which SETA is for engineering?

   Engineering pathways can fall under several SETAs. merSETA is crucial for metal, engineering, automotive and manufacturing careers, while CETA, EWSETA, MQA, CHIETA and others also cover technical occupations within their sectors.

9. Which SETA is responsible for mining?

   The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) governs the mining and minerals sector.

10. Which SETA covers healthcare?

    HWSETA handles health, welfare, social development and related fields.

11. Which SETA covers municipalities?

    LGSETA focuses on local government and municipal skills development.

12. Can TVET College students benefit from SETAs?

    Yes. Depending on their field, TVET students may access apprenticeships, workplace placements, work‑integrated learning, learnerships and other SETA‑supported opportunities.

13. Are all programmes listed on the platform currently accepting applications?

    No. The catalogue contains information for research and planning. Verify active intake status before applying.

14. How do I know which SETA is right for me?

    Start with the industry or career you want to enter and identify the SETA that serves that sector. The platform’s personalised guidance tools can also help.

Start exploring the 21 SETAs today

The SETA system links education, occupational training, employers, qualifications, workplace experience and skills development across almost every major sector of South Africa’s economy. Whether you are a matriculant, unemployed youth, TVET student, university graduate, aspiring artisan, employee seeking up‑skilling or job seeker entering a new industry, understanding the right SETA will open more relevant opportunities.

Useful SETA SA Resources

• SETA SA platform – programme search and career guidance
• Eligibility Checker – match your background to a SETA
• TVET Colleges Explorer – find public TVET colleges and programmes
• NQF Levels Explained – understand qualification levels
• Career and Qualification Explorer – investigate career pathways

Disclaimer

SETA SA provides educational and opportunity information to help South Africans understand careers, qualifications, learnerships, bursaries and skills‑development pathways.

Programme availability, application dates, funding, stipends, qualification registration, entry requirements and selection criteria can change. Applicants should always verify the latest information with the relevant SETA, employer, accredited provider or official recruiting organisation before applying.

SETA SA does not guarantee selection, employment, funding or admission into any programme.

Editorial Integrity

This guide aims to help applicants navigate South Africa’s SETA landscape and use the SETA SA platform effectively. Programme catalogue information should be used for research and career planning, while active application opportunities must always be checked against the official recruitment notice.

SETA SA IS A REGISTERED NON‑PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. SETA SA DOES NOT SOLICIT MONEY OR CVs FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE SETA SA SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY.