Does SETA offer free courses? Yes! Learn how to access SETA-funded skills programmes, learnerships, and online training in South Africa.
Understanding SETA’s Role in Skills Development
The Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are central to South Africa’s drive to close the skills gap. Created under the Skills Development Act, there are 21 SETAs, each responsible for a specific economic sector such as finance, agriculture, education, construction, and more.
SETAs are responsible for designing and funding learning programmes like learnerships, internships, apprenticeships, and skills programmes. These training pathways are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), ensuring national recognition and credibility.
Does SETA Offer Free Courses?
Yes—SETA offers free training and skills programmes.
These programmes are fully or partially funded through the Skills Development Levy, which is a mandatory contribution paid by employers to support training initiatives. This funding enables SETAs to provide no-cost education and development opportunities for unemployed youth, current employees, and career changers.
In most cases, applicants are not required to pay any registration or tuition fees, and in many programmes, learners receive monthly stipends to support their participation.
Types of Free Courses Offered by SETAs
1. Learnerships
Learnerships are structured programmes that combine classroom-based learning with practical work experience. They are typically 12 to 24 months long and lead to an NQF-recognized qualification. These are among the most sought-after free programmes because they offer learners:
- Nationally recognized certifications
- On-the-job training
- Monthly stipends
- Improved employability upon completion
Learnerships are open to both employed and unemployed individuals, although preference is often given to unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35.
2. Skills Programmes
Skills programmes are shorter than learnerships and are usually focused on a specific job skill or cluster of skills. These can last a few weeks to several months and are designed to improve practical job-readiness.
Examples include:
- Office administration
- Basic computer literacy
- Customer service
- Food handling and hygiene
- Health and safety training
Skills programmes are ideal for people who want to upgrade specific capabilities without committing to a longer qualification.
3. Online SETA Courses
Several SETAs have started offering free online courses to increase access to education across the country. These include digital literacy courses, entrepreneurship training, basic financial management, and soft skills like communication and teamwork.
These online courses are often self-paced and ideal for people who:
- Cannot travel to learning centers
- Work full-time and need flexibility
- Prefer digital learning environments
4. E-Learning Learnerships
In a more modern approach, some SETAs now offer blended or fully online learnerships. These programmes combine e-learning modules with work placements or virtual simulations and are especially useful in sectors such as IT, business administration, digital marketing, and customer support.
E-learning makes training more inclusive and accessible, especially for learners in remote or rural areas.
5. Specialised Programmes by Sector
Each SETA offers specific programmes based on the demands of its sector. For instance:
- ETDP SETA (Education, Training and Development Practices): Offers courses in facilitation, youth development, early childhood development, and assessor/moderator training.
- Services SETA: Provides training in call centre operations, hospitality, beauty therapy, and retail.
- AgriSETA: Offers training in agriculture, farming techniques, and rural development.
- MICT SETA: Covers media, IT, and telecommunications.
These courses are often coordinated with employers or public colleges and are funded directly by the SETA or in partnership with private providers.
What You’ll Need to Enrol
Most SETA-funded programmes require the following:
- South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Age 18–35 (for unemployed youth programmes)
- Certified copy of your ID
- Highest school qualification (Grade 9, 10, 11, or Matric, depending on the programme)
- Updated CV
- Proof of residence
Some programmes might require basic assessments in maths and literacy. Others may require interviews, especially if there are limited spaces available.
Do Learners Get Paid?
Yes, many SETA-funded programmes include monthly stipends to cover travel and daily expenses. While the amount may vary by sector and programme, stipends typically range from R1,500 to R4,500 per month.
This financial support enables learners—especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds—to participate in full-time training without sacrificing their basic needs.
Real Benefits of SETA-Free Courses
Here are a few reasons why SETA-funded courses are highly beneficial:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| No Tuition Fees | Courses are fully funded for qualifying learners |
| Accredited Qualifications | NQF-aligned and recognised nationally |
| Stipends | Learners often receive financial support during the programme |
| Practical Work Experience | Learnerships combine theory with workplace exposure |
| Job Market Alignment | Courses are developed with industry to meet current job demands |
| Accessibility | Options include in-person, blended, and online learning |
| Entry Without Matric | Many skills programmes accept applicants with Grade 9 or 10 |
Testimonials and Learner Experiences
“I completed a Services SETA learnership in retail and got hired right after. It was free, and I received a monthly stipend which helped me complete it without financial stress.”
— Sipho D., Cape Town
“The online courses were perfect for me. I couldn’t afford to travel to class every day, so learning from home was the only way. I completed digital skills training and now work at an IT help desk.”
— Nomfundo R., Durban
“I thought free meant low quality. I was wrong. The training was professional, the material was good, and my certificate helped me get interviews.”
— Kabelo M., Johannesburg
How to Find and Apply for SETA Free Courses
Step 1: Identify the Right SETA
Start by researching which SETA corresponds with your career interest. For example:
- Hospitality – Services SETA
- Agriculture – AgriSETA
- IT – MICT SETA
- Education – ETDP SETA
- Transport – TETA
Step 2: Visit the Official Website
Most SETAs advertise learnerships, bursaries, and short courses on their websites or social media pages. Check regularly for new intake announcements.
Step 3: Apply Online or at Partner Institutions
Follow the application steps—this may include filling out an online form or submitting documents to a college, training provider, or company partnered with the SETA.
Step 4: Stay in Touch
If your application is successful, you may be called for a screening interview or testing session. Always check your email and phone regularly during the recruitment process.
Common Challenges and Tips
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Limited Spots | Apply early and to multiple programmes |
| Not Getting Feedback | Follow up with the training provider for updates |
| Internet/Data Costs | Use free Wi-Fi zones at public libraries or community centres |
| Scams or Fake Offers | Only apply through official SETA sites or known partner institutions |
Final Thoughts
Yes, SETA does offer free courses across many industries and sectors in South Africa. From fully funded learnerships to short online training modules, there’s a wide range of options available—often with stipends included.
Whether you’re unemployed, looking to upskill, or want to start a new career, SETA-funded programmes provide a credible, practical, and cost-effective way to learn and grow. These opportunities are designed not just for education, but for real-life employability.
All you need to do is find the right programme, apply with the correct documents, and take the first step toward building a better future—without paying a cent.
