Absa Unemployed Learnership 2026: Trainee Financial Advisers (FAIS)

Absa Bank has opened applications for its 2026 Unemployed Learnership Programme for Trainee Financial Advisers.

This 12-month programme is designed for qualified graduates in Finance, Accounting, or Law who want to build a regulated career in financial services under the FAIS framework.

Successful candidates receive structured workplace exposure and work toward becoming FAIS Fit and Proper compliant professionals.

2026 Application Deadlines & Requisition IDs

Applications are submitted via the official Absa Careers (Workday) portal.

Search using the exact Requisition ID for your region:

RegionLocationJob Requisition IDClosing Date
KZNUmhlangaR-1598206113 February 2026
GautengJohannesburgR-1598206717 February 2026
MpumalangaNelspruitR-1598206517 February 2026

If the closing date has passed, monitor the portal for re-openings or new intakes.

What This Absa Learnership Includes

This is not a generic internship.

It is structured to develop fully compliant financial advisers.

Earn While You Learn

Participants receive a monthly stipend while completing practical training.

FAIS Alignment

You will work toward meeting Fit and Proper requirements under the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services (FAIS) Act.

Sales & Lead Generation Training

Learn how to:

  • Manage client leads
  • Understand financial products
  • Achieve performance targets

Compliance & SOP Training

Develop knowledge of:

  • Regulatory compliance
  • Standard Operating Procedures
  • Risk and governance requirements

Minimum Requirements

Absa is recruiting unemployed graduates who meet strict academic criteria.

Required:

  • Completed Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma in:
    • Accounting
    • Finance
    • Law
  • National Senior Certificate (Matric)
  • Must be currently unemployed

Highly Advantageous:

  • FSCA-approved qualification
  • RE5 Regulatory Exam already completed

Holding an RE5 certificate significantly improves your competitiveness.

Pro-Tip for Absa Applicants: While RE5 is not compulsory to apply, having it makes you a “top-tier” candidate for Requisitions R-15982067, R-15982065, and R-15982061. If you don’t have yours yet, follow our guide on RE5 Online Applications 2026: How to Register and Get Certified to get a head start.

Personal Attributes Absa Looks For

Beyond qualifications, candidates must demonstrate:

  • Integrity and ethical conduct
  • Professional communication skills
  • Client-focused mindset
  • Confidence in regulated environments
  • Willingness to work toward sales targets

Financial advising requires both compliance knowledge and strong interpersonal skills.

How to Apply on the Absa Workday Portal

Applications are strictly online.

Step 1: Visit the Absa Careers Website

Go to the official Absa Workday recruitment platform.

Step 2: Search Using Requisition ID

Type the exact job code (e.g., R-15982067) in the search bar.

This ensures you apply to the correct regional listing.

Step 3: Create or Update Your Profile

Ensure your profile includes:

  • Accurate education details
  • Updated contact information
  • Work readiness status

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Prepare the following:

  • Degree Certificate
  • Academic Transcripts
  • South African ID
  • Professional CV

If you have passed RE5, clearly indicate this in your application.

Why This Learnership Is a Career Accelerator

The financial services industry in South Africa is highly regulated.

Completing this programme:

  • Positions you within a major African banking group
  • Builds compliance credibility
  • Enhances employability across banks and insurance firms
  • Creates long-term earning potential in advisory roles

Many financial advisers build six-figure annual incomes once established.

Starting within a structured bank environment provides foundational stability.

Related Opportunities

If you are building a career path, also explore:

FAQs – Absa Unemployed Learnership 2026

Is this programme only for graduates?

Yes. A completed Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma in Finance, Accounting, or Law is required.

Do I need RE5 before applying?

Not mandatory, but highly advantageous.

How long is the learnership?

12 months.

Is there a stipend?

Yes. Participants receive a monthly allowance.

Where do I apply?

Only via the official Absa Workday careers portal using the correct Requisition ID.

Itumeleng Ndlovu

Itumeleng Ndlovu is the Founder and Managing Editor of SETA Careers, an independent South African platform dedicated to publishing accurate information about learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills development programmes. She specialises in researching and verifying updates from official government departments, SETAs, TVET colleges, and accredited institutions to ensure readers receive clear, reliable, and up-to-date guidance. She is committed to simplifying complex education and career information so South African students and job seekers can make informed decisions with confidence. Contact: info@setacareers.co.za