One of the biggest reasons many applicants get rejected from learnerships is not because they don’t qualify — but because they submit wrong, missing, or uncertified documents.
If you have ever applied for a SETA learnership and never received feedback, chances are your documents were incomplete or incorrectly prepared.
In this complete guide, you will learn:
- All the essential documents required for learnerships
- Which documents are compulsory
- Which ones are optional but important
- How to certify your documents correctly
- What to do if you are missing certain papers
- And how to avoid common document-related rejections
What Is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured skills development programme that combines:
- Theoretical classroom learning
- Practical workplace experience
Learnerships are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and are overseen by different Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
When you complete a learnership successfully, you receive:
- A nationally recognised qualification
- Work experience
- A monthly stipend
Why Are Documents So Important for Learnership Applications?
Documents are used to:
- Verify your identity
- Confirm your education level
- Check your citizenship or residency status
- Prove where you live
- Assess your eligibility for funding
- Prevent fraud and duplicate applications
If your documents are missing or incorrect, your application will usually be automatically disqualified.
1. South African ID Document (Compulsory)
This is the most important document for any learnership application.
You must submit:
- A certified copy of your green barcoded ID, OR
- A certified copy of your smart ID card (front and back)
Your ID is used to:
- Confirm your age
- Confirm your citizenship
- Register your learnership on national systems
Passport alone is usually not accepted unless the advert clearly states otherwise.
2. Matric Certificate or Latest School Results (Compulsory)
Depending on your education level, you must submit:
- Matric certificate (if you passed)
- Statement of results (if you failed matric)
- Latest school report (if you are still in school)
- TVET college certificate (if applicable)
- University qualification (for graduate learnerships)
This document is used to:
- Check your highest qualification
- Confirm NQF entry level
- Verify subject requirements
Even non-matric applicants must still submit school results.
3. Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) (Compulsory)
Your CV explains:
- Who you are
- Your education
- Your work experience
- Your skills
- Your contact details
Your CV must include:
- Full names and surname
- ID number
- Contact number
- Email address
- Education history
- Work experience (if any)
- Skills and references
Do NOT submit:
- Handwritten CVs
- CVs without contact details
- CVs with false information
4. Proof of Residence (Usually Required)
Proof of residence confirms where you live. It may include:
- Utility bill
- Letter from ward councillor
- Affidavit from SAPS
- Lease agreement
Proof of residence is often used to:
- Prioritise local applicants
- Meet municipal recruitment targets
- Reduce transport costs for learners
If you don’t have one, a sworn affidavit is usually accepted.
5. Bank Confirmation Letter (Sometimes Required)
Some learnerships ask for:
- A bank confirmation letter
- Or stamped bank statement
This is used for:
- Monthly stipend payments
- Verification of banking details
Bank accounts must usually be:
- In your own name
- Active and verified
Don’t use someone else’s account unless allowed in writing.
6. SARS Tax Number (Sometimes Required)
Some employers require:
- A SARS tax number
- Or confirmation that you are registered on eFiling
This is especially common for:
- Graduate learnerships
- Corporate-funded programmes
- Banking and finance learnerships
If you don’t have one, it can be created online or at a SARS branch.
7. Disability Proof (Only If Applicable)
If you are applying under a disability category, you may be asked for:
- Medical confirmation letter
- Disability certificate (where applicable)
This helps employers:
- Access disability funding
- Meet employment equity targets
- Provide workplace accommodations
❌ Do not submit disability documents if you are applying under a general category.
8. Driver’s Licence (Only If Required)
Some learnerships require:
- Code B driver’s licence
- Code C or EC for logistics and transport
This is common in:
- Fieldwork learnerships
- Sales learnerships
- Technical onsite roles
If it’s listed as “advantageous”, it’s optional — not compulsory.
9. Academic Transcript (Graduate Learnerships)
If you are a graduate, you may need to submit:
- Full academic record
- Not only the qualification certificate
This is used in:
- Banking learnerships
- IT graduate programmes
- Engineering graduates
- Finance and accounting programmes
How to Certify Your Documents Correctly
Certified copies must be:
Certified by:
- SAPS
- A commissioner of oaths
- A magistrate
Certification must show:
- Stamp
- Signature
- Date of certification
Certification should not be:
- Older than 3 months (unless stated otherwise)
Never submit original documents.
How to Name Your Documents When Applying Online
Always name your files properly, for example:
- ID_Document.pdf
- Matric_Certificate.pdf
- CV.pdf
- Proof_of_Residence.pdf
Avoid names like:
- “scan123”
- “image01”
- “documentfinalfinal”
Clear naming improves processing speed.
What If You Are Missing Some Documents?
If you are missing a document:
- Apply anyway if the advert allows partial submission
- Clearly state what is missing
- Apply for replacements immediately
You can replace:
- Lost ID at Home Affairs
- Lost matric at DBE or Umalusi
- Missing proof of residence with an affidavit
Common Reasons Learnership Applications Are Rejected
- ID not certified
- Wrong qualification submitted
- CV missing contact details
- Expired certification stamp
- Fake documents
- Bank account not in applicant’s name
- Documents combined into one unreadable file
- Blurred images and screenshots
Do Document Requirements Change Between SETAs?
Yes.
Each SETA and employer sets its own requirements. Some programmes need:
- More documents
- Additional screening forms
- Background checks
Always read the official advert carefully.
Should You Submit Documents on WhatsApp?
- Only if the employer officially allows it
- Never send personal documents to unknown WhatsApp numbers
- Use email or official application portals when possible
Tips to Prepare Your Learnership Document File
- Use clear PDF scans
- Keep all documents in one folder
- Name files correctly
- Keep certified copies ready
- Back up your documents on cloud or flash drive
- Update your CV every 3–6 months
Final Checklist: Learnership Documents You Need
Before applying, make sure you have:
- Certified SA ID copy
- Matric certificate or latest school results
- Updated CV
- Proof of residence
- Bank confirmation letter (if required)
- SARS tax number (if required)
- Disability proof (if applicable)
- Driver’s licence (if required)
Final Thoughts
If your documents are correct, certified, and clearly scanned, your application already stands a better chance than thousands of others. Many applicants lose opportunities not because they don’t qualify — but because of simple admin mistakes.
Preparing your documents properly shows:
- Discipline
- Seriousness
- Professionalism
- Readiness for the workplace
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply without a CV?
No. A CV is required for almost all learnerships.
Can I use a temporary ID?
Only if the advert clearly allows it.
How old can certified copies be?
Preferably not older than 3 months.
Can I apply with a police affidavit instead of a matric?
Only in special cases and only if allowed in writing.
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