One of the most important questions asked by young people across South Africa is:
“Do SETA learnerships pay?”
Many applicants hesitate to apply because they are unsure whether they will receive money during the programme or if learnerships are unpaid like some internships. The good news is that most SETA learnerships are paid through monthly stipends.
In this complete guide, you will learn:
- Whether SETA learnerships are paid
- What a stipend is
- How much learners earn
- Who pays the stipend
- When you get paid
- And what happens if your stipend is late
What Is a SETA Learnership?
A SETA learnership is a structured training programme that combines:
- Classroom-based learning (theory)
- Practical workplace experience (on-the-job training)
Learnerships are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and are overseen by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). When learners complete the programme successfully, they receive a nationally recognised qualification.
Unlike short courses, a learnership runs for 12 to 24 months and includes both education and real work experience.
Are SETA Learnerships Paid?
Yes, SETA learnerships are paid.
Learners receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the programme. This stipend is provided to help learners cover basic living costs such as:
- Transport
- Meals
- Daily expenses
However, it is important to understand that a stipend is not the same as a full salary.
What Is a Stipend?
A stipend is a training allowance paid to learners who are participating in a skills development programme. It is not permanent employment income. Instead, it is financial support given while the learner is busy with training.
Key differences between a stipend and a salary:
| Stipend | Salary |
|---|---|
| Training allowance | Payment for full employment |
| Temporary | Permanent or contractual |
| Lower amount | Higher amount |
| Paid during training | Paid for job position |
Who Pays the Stipend for SETA Learnerships?
Stipends are paid through SETA funding, but the money usually flows through:
- The employer hosting the learner, or
- The training provider managing the programme
The SETA allocates funding to the employer, and the employer then pays the learner every month.
This is why:
- Payment systems may differ
- Payment dates may differ
- Administration may affect delays
How Much Do SETA Learnerships Pay Per Month?
There is no single fixed amount for all learnerships. The stipend depends on:
- NQF level
- Industry
- Employer budget
- SETA funding model
- Full-time or part-time training
However, here is the general national average range:
- NQF Level 1–2:
± R2,000 – R3,500 per month - NQF Level 3–4:
± R3,500 – R5,000 per month - NQF Level 5+:
± R5,000 – R8,000+ per month
⚠️ These figures are estimates, not guarantees. Some employers pay slightly less or more.
Are Learnership Stipends Taxed?
In most cases:
- Learnership stipends are not heavily taxed
- Many learners fall below the tax threshold
- Some stipends are tax-free, depending on the amount
If your stipend is taxable, your employer will guide you through registration if required.
When Do You Get Paid During a Learnership?
Learners are usually paid:
- Monthly
- On a fixed pay date (for example 25th or 30th)
- Via bank transfer
Payment normally starts:
- After the contract is signed
- Once the learner officially begins training
It is very important to:
- Have a valid bank account
- Submit correct banking details
- Ensure your name matches your ID
What Happens If a Stipend Is Late?
Late payments can happen because of:
- Delayed SETA funding
- Administrative errors
- Banking problems
- Training provider delays
If your stipend is late, you should:
- Report to your training provider
- Contact the employer HR department
- Keep written communication records
- Remain patient but consistent
Do NOT:
- Stop attending training without reporting
- Walk away without proper communication
Do You Get Paid During Classroom Training and Workplace Training?
Yes.
You are paid during both phases, as long as you are:
- Attending classes
- Reporting for workplace training
- Submitting assignments
- Following programme rules
If you:
- Abscond
- Fail to attend
- Break contract conditions
Your stipend may be stopped.
Are All Learnerships Paid?
Most SETA learnerships are paid, but there are rare cases where:
- Short skills programmes offer no stipends
- Private training programmes require self-funding
- Volunteer-based training is unpaid
A real SETA learnership is almost always paid. If a programme claims to be SETA-funded but has no stipend and asks for fees, it should be carefully verified.
Do Employed and Unemployed Learners Get the Same Stipend?
Not always.
- Unemployed learners usually receive a standard SETA stipend
- Employed learners continue receiving their salary from their employer
In some cases:
- Employed learners may not receive a separate stipend
- Their employer uses SETA funding to offset training costs
Can You Survive on a Learnership Stipend?
A learnership stipend is meant for basic support, not a luxury lifestyle.
It can usually cover:
- Transport
- Basic meals
- Airtime and data
- Small personal needs
It may not fully cover:
- Rent
- Family responsibilities
- Large debts
This is why many learners:
- Budget strictly
- Use public transport
- Continue living with family during training
What Happens to Your Income After the Learnership Ends?
After completion:
- Some learners are offered permanent jobs
- Some become contract workers
- Some move to other companies
- Some start small businesses
- Some continue studying
If you are employed after training, your income becomes a full salary, not a stipend.
Common Myths About SETA Stipends
Myth 1: “Learnerships are unpaid”
False. Most SETA learnerships pay stipends.
Myth 2: “You get rich on a stipend”
False. Stipends are for basic support only.
Myth 3: “You must pay to receive a stipend”
False. Real learnerships are fully funded.
What to Check Before Accepting a Learnership
Before signing your contract, always confirm:
- Monthly stipend amount
- Duration of payments
- Payment method
- Payment date
- Conditions for payment
- What happens if you fail or withdraw
Everything must be written in your learnership contract.
Can SETA Learnerships Stop Your SASSA Grant?
This depends on the type of grant and the amount you earn. In many cases:
- If your stipend is below the income threshold, your grant may continue
- If it exceeds the limit, your grant may be affected
Always verify with SASSA directly to avoid future problems.
Final Verdict: Are SETA Learnerships Paid?
- Yes, most SETA learnerships are paid
- Learners receive monthly stipends
- Stipends support basic living costs
- Amounts depend on NQF level and industry
- Stipends are not permanent salaries
SETA learnerships are one of the best legal ways to earn while gaining qualifications and work experience in South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do all learnerships pay the same amount?
No. Payment differs by industry, SETA, and qualification level.
Is the stipend guaranteed every month?
Yes, as long as you meet attendance and performance requirements.
Can I negotiate my stipend?
No. Stipends are fixed by funding agreements.
Will I be paid during holidays?
Only if training is still officially active.
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