Blog

If you’re passionate about building a career in the safety and security sector in South Africa—whether it’s policing, justice, legal services, or private security—then applying for a SASSETA learnership in 2025 could be your golden opportunity.

The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) funds accredited learnerships to help unemployed youth gain qualifications and practical work experience. These programmes are designed to bridge the gap between school and the workplace.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk you through:

• What SASSETA learnerships are
• Who qualifies
• How to find the application form
• How to fill it out
• Where to submit it
• Tips for getting shortlisted

Let’s get started.

What Is a SASSETA Learnership?

A learnership is a work-based learning programme that leads to an NQF-registered qualification. It combines theory and practical training under the supervision of a registered employer and a training provider.

SASSETA learnerships focus on:

• Law enforcement and policing
• Corrections and justice
• Legal administration
• Private security
• Investigations
• Forensics

These programmes typically last 12 to 24 months, during which learners receive both training and real-world experience—plus a monthly stipend.

Who Can Apply?

SASSETA learnerships are designed for unemployed South African youth, typically aged between 18 and 35. Each programme has its own minimum criteria, but the following are common:

General Requirements:

• South African citizen with valid ID
• Aged 18–35
• Grade 12 / Matric certificate
• Unemployed and not studying full-time
• No criminal record (in most cases)
• Reside in the area where the programme is offered
• Willing to commit to the full duration (12–24 months)

Some programmes also require:

• Tertiary qualifications (e.g. LLB for legal learnerships)
• Valid driver’s license
• Proof of residence
• Police clearance or affidavit of good conduct

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for SASSETA Learnerships

Here’s how to make your application stand out:

1. Find Available Learnership Opportunities

SASSETA itself does not advertise all learnerships on one central platform. Instead, partner organisations, municipalities, and training providers post them. You can find opportunities through:

• SASSETA’s e-Recruitment Portal: sasseta.org.za
• Job portals like Indeed, Careers24, and Edupstairs
• Municipality websites (e.g. EPWP–SASSETA opportunities)
• Accredited providers such as LEAD (Legal Education and Development), NKP Security, or Justice College

2. Download or Request the Application Form

Depending on the provider, the application form may be:

• Downloadable as a PDF or Word Doc
• Filled out online through a portal
• Collected in person from a municipal or training office

Here’s an example:

SASSETA Application Form PDF – EPWP Programme (Nkangala)

Always make sure the form is for the correct year (2025) and programme name.

3. Prepare Your Supporting Documents

Here’s a checklist of documents typically required:

📌 All documents must be certified within the last 3 months.

4. Fill Out the Application Form

Take your time and ensure the form is:

• Complete – don’t leave any fields blank
• Accurate – double-check spelling of your name, ID number, address
• Signed and dated
• Neatly filled in (preferably typed or written in clear handwriting)

You’ll usually be asked to declare that the information you’ve provided is true and to give consent for background checks.

5. Submit Your Application

Submission methods vary:

• Online: Upload through the SASSETA portal or a provider website
• Email: Send scanned documents and form as a PDF
• In-person delivery: Drop off at the municipal office, SETA office, or training provider

📬 Tip: Always save a copy of your submitted application for your records.

What Do You Get During the Learnership?

• Monthly stipend (usually R3,500–R5,500, depending on programme level)
• Nationally recognised NQF certificate
• Practical work experience
• Mentorship from industry professionals
• Potential job placement or further study opportunities

Pro Tips to Improve Your Chances

• Submit your application early—before the deadline.
• Make sure all documents are certified and legible.
• Attach a short motivation letter explaining why you want to join the programme.
• Tailor your CV to match the focus of the learnership (e.g. legal, security, admin).
• Follow up 2–3 weeks after submission via email or phone if contact info is provided.

Sample Motivation Letter (Mini Example)

Dear SASSETA Team,
I am a 22-year-old matriculant from Mamelodi with a strong interest in community safety and legal support. I am highly motivated, reliable, and eager to gain experience through your learnership programme. I believe this opportunity will help me contribute positively to society while building valuable career skills. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
Sipho Dlamini

2025 Application Timeline (Typical Dates)

👀 Note: Always check the exact deadlines on each advert. Late applications are not considered.

Where to Learn More

• SASSETA E‑Recruitment Portal
• SA-SETA.com – SASSETA Blog

Getting accepted into a SASSETA learnership in 2025 could be a life-changing step toward your future career in South Africa’s safety and security sector. Whether you want to work in law enforcement, legal services, or private security, SASSETA learnerships are designed to equip you with real skills, valuable work experience, and industry-recognised qualifications.

Now that you know how to apply—take action. Start preparing your documents, look out for open applications, and apply as soon as they go live. Your future starts today.

SASSETA APPLICATION FORM