Can you do two learnerships at the same time in South Africa? Learn what the rules say, alternatives to manage your training journey.
Learnerships are a popular avenue for gaining skills and qualifications in South Africa. Whether you’re in retail, engineering, IT, or another sector, learnerships offer structured training and workplace exposure. A common question is: Can you do two learnerships simultaneously? This guide explains what’s possible under current rules, what learners and employers should consider, and why this matters for your skills journey.
What Are Learnerships?
A learnership is a structured training programme that combines theoretical classroom learning with practical on-the-job experience, culminating in a nationally recognized qualification on the NQF (National Qualifications Framework). Learnerships are overseen by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and involve a contractual agreement between the learner, the employer (host), and the training provider.
Applying for Multiple Learnerships
The good news: You can apply to more than one learnership at the same time, as long as you meet each programme’s eligibility criteria. SETAs and learnership providers encourage learners to apply widely to increase their chances of selection. However, acceptance into multiple programmes doesn’t mean you can participate in all of them at once.
Doing Two Learnerships at Once: Is That Allowed?
Official Position:
No—concurrent enrolment in learnerships is not allowed.
Each learnership is registered with SETAs and recorded in the national learner database. Simultaneous participation in two registered learnerships would create conflicting records and administrative challenges.
Why You Can’t Do Two Learnerships at the Same Time
1. Qualification Integrity
Learnerships are structured to ensure compliance with national learning standards. Participating in two at the same time can jeopardize the integrity of both qualifications.
2. Administrative Constraints
Each SETA monitors learner progress and funding. If a learner is found registered in two programmes simultaneously, this can lead to duplication errors, disqualification, or withdrawal from both programmes.
3. Time and Performance
Learnerships require consistent attendance, active participation in workplace activities, and the completion of assignments and assessments. Juggling two at once would likely result in poor performance or burnout.
What Can You Do Instead?
Complete One, Then Apply for Another
Once you finish one learnership—especially at a lower NQF level—you’re free to apply for another one, even in a different field. This progressive approach allows you to build your skills and work experience effectively.
Choose Learnerships Strategically
Apply to programmes that align closely with your career goals and current capacity. Focus on quality over quantity. It’s better to complete one learnership successfully than to perform poorly in two.
Practical Experience: What Learners Say
Many learners have shared that while applying to several learnerships increases opportunities, trying to commit to more than one at a time is not realistic or allowed. Providers require full commitment, and successful learners usually progress one programme at a time.
Quick Reference Table
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I apply to more than one learnership? | Yes – if you meet the requirements. |
| Can I do two learnerships at the same time? | No – policies and time requirements prevent it. |
| What should I do instead? | Finish one, then start another. |
| Why not do both at the same time? | Conflicts in scheduling, reporting, and performance. |
What About Part-Time Learnerships?
Even if one of the learnerships is part-time or online, you are still not allowed to register for two simultaneously. This is because both must be registered under your ID with the relevant SETA, and duplication is not permitted.
Learnerships are designed to give learners hands-on experience and structured learning. Doing one thoroughly provides better results in terms of certification, experience, and employability.
Tips for Managing Learnership Opportunities
- Apply Early: Many learnerships open once a year, and early applications are more likely to succeed.
- Keep a Tracker: Record the programmes you’ve applied to, with dates and contact details.
- Be Transparent: If you’re waiting to hear back from multiple learnerships, inform the providers during interviews or orientation.
- Plan Ahead: Consider what skill sets or industries you want to explore, and build a clear path from one learnership to the next.
After Completing a Learnership
Upon completing a learnership, you receive a statement of results and often a nationally recognized certificate. You can then:
- Apply for jobs in the field you trained in.
- Pursue a more advanced learnership at a higher NQF level.
- Enroll in a related college or university programme.
Each completed learnership adds to your CV, improves your confidence, and demonstrates your commitment to learning and growth.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are very few cases where dual enrolment might be considered, but these are rare and require special approval from SETAs or training institutions. In nearly all standard cases, the rule is one learnership at a time.
Final Thoughts
While it’s entirely acceptable—and encouraged—to apply for several learnerships, you cannot participate in more than one at the same time. The system is designed to give each learner the full benefit of a dedicated training experience, without the pressure or confusion of managing multiple programmes at once.
For the best results, choose a learnership that fits your interests, commit fully to it, and once completed, move on to the next step in your learning or career journey.
