If you’re a young South African looking for real opportunities in the banking or microfinance sector, BANKSETA has opened up several development programmes designed to give you practical skills, recognised qualifications, and financial support while you’re learning.
BANKSETA—the Banking Sector Education and Training Authority—is offering learnerships, bursaries, internships, and short skills programmes for the 2025/2026 intake. These are aimed mainly at unemployed youth and individuals working in the financial sector who want to grow their careers.
Where It’s Happening
Most programmes are available in Centurion (Gauteng), Cape Town (Western Cape), and Durban (KwaZulu-Natal). Depending on the programme, you might be placed with a participating employer or training provider in one of these areas.
Learnerships
BANKSETA learnerships run from 12 to 18 months and lead to NQF Level 4–6 qualifications. Some of the most common ones include Banking Service Advice and Wealth Management. You’ll receive a monthly stipend—typically between R3,000 and R5,000—while completing both theoretical training and on-the-job experience.
Internships
If you’ve already finished a diploma or degree, you can apply for an internship through BANKSETA. These internships run between 12 and 24 months, often in areas like Risk Management, Banking, or IT. Just like with learnerships, interns get paid monthly—between R3,000 and R5,000 depending on the role and host organisation.
Bursaries
For those heading into university or already studying toward a degree in something like BCom Finance or IT, BANKSETA bursaries are an option. These bursaries can cover up to R80,000 per year and go toward tuition, books, and accommodation. You’ll need to show proof of tertiary acceptance and meet their criteria for academic and financial need.
Skills Programmes
If you’re just looking to get your foot in the door with short courses, BANKSETA also funds brief skills programmes—usually 1 to 6 months long—in topics like Contact Centre operations or Financial Literacy. These don’t come with a stipend but do help build essential knowledge and credentials.
Who Can Apply?
- You must be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- For learnerships and skills programmes, you’ll need a Grade 12 qualification.
- For bursaries, you’ll need to have completed Grade 12 and have proof of acceptance to a tertiary institution.
- Internships require a relevant diploma or degree.
- You must be unemployed (unless the programme is aimed at upskilling those already in the sector).
- You can’t have participated in the same programme before.
- You must be between the ages of 18–35 (for bursaries and learnerships).
- BANKSETA also gives preference to Employment Equity candidates—Black, female, or persons with disabilities.
What You’ll Gain
You’re not just getting money or a certificate. You’ll walk away with real-world training, nationally recognised qualifications (NQF Levels 4 to 7), industry exposure, and mentorship. Many who’ve gone through BANKSETA programmes have landed permanent roles in banks, financial institutions, or tech roles linked to finance.
How to Apply
Applications close early in 2026—usually around March for bursaries. You’ll need to submit a complete application with your:
- CV
- Certified ID copy
- Certified proof of highest qualification (Grade 12, diploma, or university acceptance)
- Proof of residence (must be certified within the last 6 months)
- A cover note specifying the exact programme you’re applying for (e.g., Learnership: Wealth Management)
Where to send your application:
- Email: info@bankseta.org.za
- Physical address: Building C2, Eco Origin Office Park, Eco-Park Estate, 349 Witch-Hazel Avenue, Highveld, Centurion, 0144
- Postal address: PO Box 11678, Vorna Valley, 1686
No application fees are required. If you don’t hear back within 90 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful. All submissions will go through a background check—this includes verification of your qualifications and a criminal record check.
Need Help or More Info?
- Phone: +27 11 805 9661
- Email: info@bankseta.org.za
- Website: www.bankseta.org.za
If you’re serious about a future in banking, microfinance, or financial technology, this is your window. BANKSETA doesn’t just offer funding—they create a pathway to real, sustainable employment in one of South Africa’s most vital sectors.