Curious about learnership allowances in South Africa? Learn how much SETA-funded stipends are in 2025 across NQF levels and sectors.
Learnerships are a cornerstone of skills development in South Africa. They combine theoretical training with hands-on workplace experience and offer monthly stipends to support unpaid learners. Many participants ask: How much is that stipend or allowance? This comprehensive guide covers what stipends look like across different qualification levels, sectors, and what to realistically expect for 2025.
The Role of Learnerships and Allowances
Learnerships are structured training programmes offered by employers in partnership with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). They lead to qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and typically last between 12 and 24 months.
The allowance—or stipend—you receive isn’t a full salary. It’s designed to help cover essential daily costs like transport, food, and data, so you can focus on learning and on-the-job training without extra financial stress.
How Much Do Learnerships Pay in 2025?
Stipend amounts vary widely based on the SETA, NQF level, sector, and employer. Here’s what the general trends for 2025 look like:
- Entry-level Learnerships (NQF 1–3): R2,000–R4,500 per month
- Mid-level Learnerships (NQF 4–5): R4,000–R6,500 per month
- Advanced Learnerships (NQF 6–7): R4,500–R6,000, sometimes higher depending on sector
- In technical or IT-heavy fields (like engineering or software development), stipends can reach R7,000 or more
These figures reflect national averages and may change based on employer funding or SETA policies.
Sector-Specific Stipend Examples
Different industries carry their own stipend norms:
- Mining & Construction: Often R4,000–R6,000
- Information Technology: Typically R4,500–R6,500
- Healthcare & Social Services: Around R3,000–R5,000
- Retail, Agriculture, Hospitality: Typically R3,000–R4,500
Employers in high-demand or rural locations may offer slightly more to attract applicants.
Learning Allowances vs Tax Allowances
It’s worth noting that there is also a tax incentive for employers offering learnerships:
- Employers can claim an annual and completion allowance of R40,000 per learner for NQF levels 1–6
- For NQF levels 7–10, the deduction is typically R20,000
- If the learnership ends early—before 12 months—only a pro-rated portion may be claimed
This financial incentive helps make more substantive stipends feasible.
What Learners Are Saying
Reddit anecdotes provide real-world insight:
- A packaging learnership stipend was R3,600 in 2015—likely higher today due to inflation
- An IT practical stipend offered by SITA was only R1,700, which was too low to cover rent and travel
- Compare that to internship stipends or loved opportunities that can offer R5,000–R10,000 depending on the field
These stories highlight that while official ranges are useful, actual stipends vary and often need personal adjustment.
Example Breakdown Over Time
| NQF Level | Typical Monthly Stipend | Best Case in Technical Fields |
|---|---|---|
| NQF 1–3 | R2,000–R4,500 | — |
| NQF 4–5 | R4,000–R6,500 | — |
| NQF 6–7 | R4,500–R6,000 | R7,000+ |
| Technical Fields | Not always higher | R7,000+ |
Factors Influencing Stipend Amounts
- SETA guidelines – Each SETA may set minimum stipend ranges
- Employer top-ups – Some companies add to the SETA-funded amount
- Field complexity – Technical fields often justify higher stipends
- Urban vs rural – Cost of living adjustments may apply
- Length of learnership – Longer programmes may offer better continuity and support
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a learnership in South Africa, expect a stipend in the R2,000 to R6,500 range—depending on your qualification level and sector. Competitive fields may offer up to R7,000 or more. This financial support, though modest, is intended to help you focus on gaining skills rather than worrying about day-to-day costs.
Before committing, check:
- The stipend amount and payment frequency (monthly or bi-monthly)
- What expenses it should cover: transport, data, meals, etc.
- Whether the employer tops up the stipend
A successful learnership can be your launchpad to gaining practical experience, certification, and future job opportunities.
