The finance and banking sectors remain among the most structured and competitive pathways for young South Africans seeking professional careers. Two key Sector Education and Training Authorities drive skills development in these fields: FASSET (Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority) and BANKSETA (Banking Sector Education and Training Authority). Both support learnerships that combine formal training with workplace experience, leading to recognised qualifications and monthly stipends.
This guide explains how FASSET and BANKSETA learnership programmes work for 2027, the main opportunities available, typical requirements, stipend ranges, application processes and practical tips for success.
Understanding FASSET Learnerships
FASSET covers accounting, auditing, taxation, financial management, payroll, management consulting and related business services. Its learnerships provide structured pathways for unemployed youth and graduates who want to enter the finance profession.
Programmes typically last 12 to 18 months and combine theoretical learning with practical workplace experience. FASSET lists multiple accredited pathways ranging from entry-level certificates (such as Accounting Technician and Local Government Accounting) to higher-level qualifications linked to professional bodies. These include routes in financial accounting, auditing support, taxation and business administration.
FASSET does not usually recruit learners directly. Instead, it funds employers, training providers and professional bodies that advertise and select candidates for specific intakes. Work-Based Experience (WBE) opportunities for TVET N6 students also form part of the broader offering.
Understanding BANKSETA Learnerships
BANKSETA supports skills development in the banking and alternative banking sector. Its flagship programmes include:
- Letsema Learnership: Aimed primarily at post-matric candidates. This is typically a 12-month programme leading to an NQF Level 5 qualification focused on banking service advice and related skills.
- Kuyasa Learnership: Designed for graduates, often at NQF Levels 5 or 6, covering areas such as management development, business analysis and financial markets.
In addition, major banks (including Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank and others) run their own BANKSETA-funded learnerships throughout the year. These bank-hosted programmes often offer higher stipends and strong pathways into permanent employment.
BANKSETA’s recruitment for Letsema and Kuyasa traditionally opens between July and August or September for programmes starting the following year, though individual bank intakes may appear at different times.
Typical Requirements for 2027 Applicants
While exact criteria vary by programme and host, common requirements include:
For FASSET programmes:
- South African citizenship
- Unemployed status (for most unemployed-learner intakes)
- Age usually between 18 and 35
- Matric certificate (Mathematics or Accounting is often preferred or required)
- For higher or specialised streams: relevant diploma, N6 or specific subject results
- Interest in finance, numeracy skills and willingness to work in a professional office environment
For BANKSETA programmes:
- South African citizenship
- Unemployed status and no concurrent full-time studies
- Age under 35 in most cases
- Letsema: Matric meeting the entry requirements for an NQF Level 5 qualification
- Kuyasa: Completed relevant diploma or degree (fields such as IT, finance, accounting, commerce, risk management, economics or related disciplines)
- Clear credit and criminal record in many cases
- Preference often given to youth from disadvantaged backgrounds and people with disabilities
Always check the specific advertisement, as some programmes have additional equity or provincial targets.
Stipends and Financial Support
Unemployed learners on both FASSET and BANKSETA-funded programmes receive a monthly stipend. Reported ranges commonly fall between R3 500 and R5 900 per month, depending on the programme, NQF level and host organisation. Some bank-hosted learnerships have offered higher amounts (for example, around R5 900 in certain 2026 intakes).
The stipend is an allowance to support transport, meals and basic living costs. It is not a salary. Legitimate programmes are free to apply for. Never pay application, registration or placement fees.
How to Find and Apply for 2027 Opportunities
There is no single permanent national application form. Opportunities open throughout the year as funding is allocated and hosts begin recruitment.
Practical steps:
- Decide whether you are targeting finance/accounting (FASSET) or banking (BANKSETA) pathways.
- Regularly check the official websites: fasset.org.za and bankseta.org.za (especially the youth programmes or learnership sections).
- Monitor careers pages of major banks, accounting firms, professional bodies and training providers.
- Prepare certified copies of your ID, Matric certificate or highest qualification, academic transcripts, updated CV and proof of residence.
- Apply only through the official channel stated in each advert (online form, email or specified portal).
- Submit before the closing date and keep proof of your application.
For BANKSETA’s Letsema and Kuyasa programmes, recruitment windows often open in the second half of the year for the following intake. Bank-specific learnerships appear on individual bank career portals throughout the year.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE BANKSETA https://bankseta.org.za/youth-programmes/
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE FASSET https://www.fasset.org.za/leanerships
Safety Advice – Avoid Scams
Scams targeting finance and banking learnerships are common. Protect yourself by:
- Applying only through official company websites, FASSET or BANKSETA notices, or recognised providers
- Never paying money to “secure” a place
- Verifying the legitimacy of the training provider or employer
- Being cautious of social media posts promising guaranteed placement or asking for fees
Benefits of Completing These Programmes
Successful learners leave with a nationally recognised qualification, practical workplace experience, professional networks and stronger employability. Many FASSET and BANKSETA completers progress into permanent roles in accounting firms, banks, corporate finance departments or related services. The combination of theory, hands-on work and mentorship builds both technical competence and professional habits valued by employers.
Final Tips for 2027 Applicants
Prepare your documents early and keep them updated. Monitor official sources regularly rather than relying only on third-party listings. Apply to multiple relevant programmes to improve your chances. Treat every application seriously — complete documents and a clear motivation letter make a difference.
FASSET and BANKSETA learnership programmes for 2027 offer structured, paid routes into South Africa’s finance and banking industries. By focusing on legitimate opportunities, matching your profile to the right pathway and applying carefully, you can position yourself for skills, experience and better long-term career prospects in these professional sectors.
Check the official FASSET and BANKSETA websites, major bank career pages and accredited training providers regularly for the latest 2027 openings.