Are you planning to apply for a SETA learnership, internship, or bursary in South Africa in 2025? One of the first things you need to understand is the minimum academic requirement for SETA programmes. Every year, thousands of applicants miss out because they fail to meet—or misunderstand—these basic educational qualifications.
This guide will walk you through the academic requirements for SETA programmes, explain the qualification levels needed, and help you determine whether you’re eligible to apply in 2025.
What Are SETAs?
Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are public institutions in South Africa responsible for promoting skills development in various economic sectors. There are 21 SETAs, each aligned with a specific industry (e.g., HWSETA for health, MERSETA for manufacturing, etc.).
SETAs offer funding for:
- Learnerships (structured work + study programmes)
- Internships (often for graduates)
- Skills programmes
- Bursaries for further education and training
Each programme has minimum academic entry requirements, which vary depending on the qualification level and industry.
What Is the Minimum Academic Requirement for a SETA Learnership?
The absolute minimum requirement to apply for most entry-level SETA programmes is a Grade 9 certificate (also known as General Education and Training Certificate – GETC). However, most learnerships require Grade 10, 11, or Grade 12 (matric), depending on the field.
General Requirements for SETA Learnerships:
| Programme Type | Minimum Academic Requirement |
|---|---|
| NQF Level 1-3 | Grade 9 (GETC) |
| NQF Level 4 | Grade 12 (National Senior Certificate) |
| NQF Level 5-6 | Diploma or Higher Certificate |
| NQF Level 7+ | Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma |
Note: Some learnerships may accept NC(V) (National Certificate Vocational) or equivalent TVET college qualifications in place of matric.
Examples of SETA Academic Requirements by Sector
Here’s a quick look at the minimum academic qualifications required by selected SETAs in 2025:
1. Services SETA
- Minimum: Grade 10 or Grade 12
- Fields: Business administration, hygiene and cleaning, customer service
- Preferred: Grade 12 for business-related learnerships
2. HWSETA (Health and Welfare)
- Minimum: Grade 12 with life sciences or related subjects
- Fields: Auxiliary nursing, community health work
- Additional: Must pass a medical fitness test for some roles
3. MERSETA (Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services)
- Minimum: Grade 10 for basic technical trades
- Preferred: Grade 12 with maths or physical science
- Fields: Welding, fitting & turning, automotive repair
4. MICT SETA (Media, Information, and Communication Technologies)
- Minimum: Grade 12 with computer literacy
- Fields: IT support, networking, software development
- Extra: Some programmes may require NQF Level 5
5. FASSET (Finance and Accounting Services SETA)
- Minimum: Grade 12 with accounting or maths
- Preferred: Diploma in finance or commerce for internships
- Fields: Bookkeeping, tax, auditing, financial management
What About SETA Bursaries?
SETAs also offer bursaries for students pursuing studies at universities or TVET colleges. These have higher academic requirements compared to learnerships.
Bursary Requirements Typically Include:
- South African citizenship
- Minimum of Grade 12 with university entrance (Bachelor pass)
- Acceptance letter from a recognised public institution
- Studying towards a qualification aligned with the SETA’s mandate
For example:
- CHIETA bursaries require strong science and maths marks
- INSETA bursaries focus on insurance, finance, and risk qualifications
- ETDP SETA funds education and training students (e.g., teaching)
Do I Need Maths to Apply for SETA Learnerships?
This depends on the SETA and the programme type. For example:
- Retail or hospitality programmes don’t usually require maths
- Engineering, finance, or ICT programmes often require at least basic maths or maths literacy
- Some programmes (e.g., artisanship) require pure maths and physical science in Grade 12
Tip: Always check the specific advert for the learnership or bursary. Each opportunity outlines the minimum subjects and marks required.
What If I Didn’t Finish School?
If you didn’t complete Grade 12, you can still apply for some NQF Level 1–3 learnerships through SETAs. Additionally:
- ABET (Adult Basic Education and Training): Accepted for entry-level programmes
- TVET qualifications: May be used in place of matric
- Skills programmes: Often have flexible entry requirements
Many SETAs also run bridging or foundational skills courses to prepare learners for formal programmes. So don’t be discouraged—there are pathways to qualify even without a matric certificate.
How to Check Academic Requirements for a SETA Opportunity
When applying in 2025, here’s how to ensure you meet the academic requirements:
- Read the advert: Always download the full PDF or visit the official SETA or training provider’s website.
- Check the NQF Level: This will tell you what academic qualification you need.
- Match your school results to the required subjects and levels.
- Contact the provider: If unsure, reach out via email or phone.
- Keep your documents updated: Make sure you have a certified copy of your latest academic record.
Final Advice for 2025 Applicants
As a SETA applicant in 2025, your first priority should be to match your academic qualifications to the right level of programme. Don’t waste time applying for learnerships that require matric if you only have Grade 10—or vice versa.
Make sure to:
- Understand the NQF levels
- Choose SETAs aligned with your career goals
- Certify all academic documents
- Focus on programmes you are truly eligible for
Knowledge is your best tool. By understanding the minimum academic requirements, you stand a better chance of being accepted and funded.