**Introduction: “Can I Get a Learnership Without Matric 2026?” — Truth, Options, and Real Possibilities
If you’ve ever typed “can I get a learnership without matric 2026” into Google, you’re not alone. Many people — especially young job seekers, career changers, and those still completing school — want to know if lack of a matric certificate ends their chance at skills training, real experience, and paid workplace learning.
The short answer? Yes — but with some conditions.
Not all learnerships require a matric certificate. In fact, many entry-level programmes are designed for people without Matric, especially at lower National Qualifications Framework (NQF) levels. These can lead to real qualifications, valuable work experience, and better job prospects — even without Grade 12.(SETAs South Africa)
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer the question “can I get a learnership without matric 2026?” with evidence, real examples, and step-by-step advice you can actually use. We’ll cover:
- How learnerships work
- Options if you don’t have matric
- Where learnerships are available
- How to apply and succeed
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Long-term progression after a learnership
By the end of this guide, you’ll clearly know whether a learnership without matric is possible in 2026, and how to find one.
What Is a Learnership? (Simple, Clear Definition)
A learnership is a formal skills-development programme that combines:
- Structured training (theory)
- Workplace experience (practical)
- A recognised qualification recorded on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
Learnerships are often funded by governments, employers, or Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). They usually last between 6 and 24 months and can lead to real credentials employers value.(EDU PAGE)
Many include a monthly stipend to support learners while they train. This means you don’t just learn — you also get paid while you build career skills.(EDU PAGE)
Do You Need a Matric Certificate to Get a Learnership in 2026?
This is the central question.
The Honest Answer
Not all learnerships require matric.
✔ Yes — some learnerships do require Matric
Many learnerships at higher NQF levels (e.g., Levels 4 and above) require a completed Matric because they lead to more advanced qualifications, especially in sectors like finance, HR, IT, and professional services.(SETAs South Africa)
✔ Yes — some learnerships do NOT require Matric
Lower-level learnerships (e.g., NQF Level 1–3) often do not require a Matric certificate. These are frequently offered in industries that prioritise practical skills over academic scores, including:
- Retail and Wholesale
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Customer Service
- Warehousing and Logistics
- Construction basics
- Agriculture
- Cleaning and facility services(SETAs South Africa)
This means you can get a recognised learnership without matric in 2026 — as long as your skills and motivation match what the programme requires.
Why Some Learnerships Don’t Require Matric
There are three main reasons:
1. Focus on Practical Skills
Learnerships in sectors like hospitality, retail, or logistics rely more on hands-on skills than academic achievement. In these fields, employers are happy to train someone who shows potential.(SETA SA)
2. Skill Shortages in Certain Industries
Industries with chronic labour shortages (e.g., construction, mining support, agriculture) often open their doors wider to non-matric candidates because they value work readiness and commitment more than exam results.(Skills Empowerment)
3. Government & SETA Goals
South Africa’s skills strategy explicitly aims to widen access so that learners from disadvantaged backgrounds — including those without Matric — can still access real, accredited training.(Skills Empowerment)
Who Typically Offers Learnerships Without Matric?
Learnerships without matric are commonly offered by:
Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs)
SETA-funded programmes aim to boost skills in their respective industries and often include lower-level learnerships. Examples include:
- Services SETA: Customer service, tourism, retail learnerships that often do not require Matric.(SETA SA)
- Transport SETA: Logistics, warehousing, and driving support roles.(EDU PAGE)
- Construction SETA (CETA): Basic construction skills, bricklaying, plumbing assistance.(Skills Empowerment)
- AgriSETA: Agricultural and environmental learnerships.(Skills Empowerment)
Training Providers
Institutes like LearnMe and BConsult often offer accredited learnerships that accept learners with Grade 9 or Grade 10 instead of Matric.(iYouth SA)
Corporates and Employers
Some companies, especially in retail or hospitality, design their own learnerships to develop new talent — often with less stringent academic requirements.(EDU PAGE)
Examples of Learnerships You Can Apply for Without Matric
While not every programme is available every year, many opportunities repeat annually. Examples include:
1. Retail Learnerships (No Matric Needed)
Large retail chains sometimes offer intake programmes that require only basic literacy and numeracy.(EDU PAGE)
2. Hospitality & Tourism Learnerships
Hotels, lodges, and tourism companies offer structured training that welcomes applicants without Matric, especially at entry levels.(SETA SA)
3. Customer Service and Call Centre Learnerships
Entry-level customer service programmes often prioritise communication skills over academic certificates.(SETA SA)
4. Construction and Artisan Support Learnerships
Basic construction roles, artisan support, and related skills training can be available to candidates with Grade 9 or 10.(Skills Empowerment)
5. Logistics and Warehousing Programmes
The transport and logistics sector offers entry pathways that do not require Matric — focusing instead on willingness to learn and basic competencies.(EDU PAGE)
Eligibility Requirements — What You Really Need
Even if you don’t have Matric, most learnership programmes will still expect:
- A valid ID (for South Africa).
- Basic literacy and numeracy.
- Age range (often 16–35).
- Willingness to commit to full duration.(SETAs South Africa)
Some programmes might ask for evidence of Grade 9 or Grade 10, but many focus more on capability and potential rather than formal certificates.(SETAs South Africa)
How to Find Learnership Opportunities Without Matric in 2026
Finding the right opportunity matters. Here are practical ways to find legitimate learnerships:
1. Visit SETA Websites
SETA portals list current learnership programmes — including those that don’t require Matric.
Example sources:
2. Use Youth Job Portals
Websites such as:
- SAYouth.mobi
- Indeed
- CareerJunction
These often list learnerships and entry-level training opportunities.
3. Check Company Career Pages
Companies like retail chains, hospitality groups, logistics companies, and smaller local employers often post learnership openings on their careers pages.(EDU PAGE)
4. Use Internal Resources Like Linkinn
Internal link: https://www.linkinn.co.za
Platforms like Linkinn publish learnerships along with deadlines, eligibility, and application tips — helping you find opportunities every month.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a No-Matric Learnership in 2026
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Even if matric is not required, you usually need:
- A certified copy of your ID
- CV or resume
- Proof of your highest education (even if Grade 9 or 10)
- Motivation letter
Step 2: Identify Suitable Learnerships
Use portals and SETA listings to filter learnerships that don’t list Matric as a requirement.
Step 3: Tailor Your CV
Highlight your strengths, such as soft skills (communication, teamwork), volunteer work, or any short courses you have completed.
Step 4: Apply Early
Learnerships often have limited intake slots and deadlines. Applying early improves your chances.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews and Assessment
Some organisations conduct basic interviews or assessments. Show enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, and reliability — often more important than formal qualifications.
Benefits of Completing a Learnership Without Matric
1. Build Real Work Experience
Learnerships provide practical skills employers value immediately.
2. Earn While You Learn
Most include a monthly stipend that helps with living costs during training.(Mysetalearnerships.co.za)
3. Gain a Recognised Qualification
Completing the programme gives you an accredited certificate that can boost future job applications.
4. Improve Long-Term Career Prospects
Many learners find employment or progress to higher qualifications after finishing their learnership.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Without Matric
Mistake 1: Applying for learnerships that explicitly require Matric without checking details.
Mistake 2: Submitting incomplete applications.
Mistake 3: Falling for scams that ask for payment — legitimate learnerships are free.(Mysetalearnerships.co.za)
Mistake 4: Not preparing for interviews or online assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get a learnership without matric in 2026?
Yes. Many learnerships, especially at lower NQF levels, do not require a Matric certificate.(SETAs South Africa)
Which sectors offer learnerships without matric?
Retail, hospitality, customer service, construction basics, and logistics are common sectors that offer no-matric options.(SETA SA)
How long do these learnerships last?
Typically between 6 and 24 months, depending on the qualification and sector.
Will I get paid during the learnership?
Many programmes include a monthly stipend to support learners.(EDU PAGE)
Can I pursue further training after completing a learnership?
Yes. Completing a learnership often opens doors to higher NQF qualifications and better career opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Lack of Matric Stop You in 2026
The question “can I get a learnership without matric 2026” has a clear answer: yes — you can. While some programmes do require Matric, many are designed for learners without matric who have drive, enthusiasm, and basic communication skills.
Whether you’re interested in retail, hospitality, logistics, or foundational skills in other industries, learnerships offer a real way to build experience, earn income, and open doors to a brighter future.
Start exploring opportunities now. Visit SETA portals, job platforms, and trusted resources like Linkinn to find programmes that match your goals — and take your first step toward a career that’s worth building.