Finishing matric is an important achievement, but not every young South African wants to attend university. For school leavers who prefer practical training and hands-on work, apprenticeships in South Africa offer an opportunity to gain technical skills, earn while learning and work towards becoming qualified artisans.
Many companies, government entities and training institutions offer apprenticeship programmes in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, welding, plumbing, fitting and turning, motor mechanics and other skilled trades.
The good news is that some apprenticeship programmes accept applicants with Grade 12, while others accept Grade 9, Grade 10, technical matric or relevant TVET college qualifications.
If you have completed matric or are preparing to leave school in 2026, this guide explains where to find apprenticeships, what qualifications you need, which companies to monitor and how to apply for 2027 opportunities.
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a structured training programme that combines classroom learning with practical experience in a workplace.
Unlike traditional university programmes, apprenticeships focus on developing specific occupational and technical skills.
Apprentices work under the guidance of experienced artisans and attend theoretical training at accredited training centres or TVET colleges.
After completing the required training and successfully passing a trade test, an apprentice can qualify as an artisan in the relevant trade.
According to the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), apprenticeship programmes combine practical and theoretical training, with duration and requirements varying according to the trade. MerSETA
Can You Apply for an Apprenticeship With Matric?
Yes. Matriculants can apply for apprenticeship programmes in South Africa, provided they meet the requirements of the advertised opportunity.
Many technical apprenticeships accept Grade 12 applicants who have completed Mathematics, Physical Sciences or relevant technical subjects.
However, not all programmes require the same qualifications.
Some trades accept applicants who have completed Grade 9 or Grade 10, while others require N2, N3 or NC(V) qualifications.
For example, the Department of Higher Education and Training recognises several routes into artisan development, including academic matric, technical matric and earlier school qualifications. nadsc.dhet.gov.za
General Apprenticeship Requirements
Requirements differ between employers, but applicants may need the following:
- Grade 12 certificate or another qualification specified in the advertisement.
- Mathematics, Physical Sciences or technical subjects for certain engineering trades.
- South African identity document, where citizenship is required.
- Good communication and problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to attend classroom and workplace training.
- Ability to work safely in an industrial or technical environment.
- Availability for the full training period.
Some programmes have age restrictions, while others do not. Applicants should always check the specific advertisement before applying.
Types of Apprenticeships Available for Matriculants in South Africa
There are several technical fields that matriculants can consider.
| Apprenticeship Trade | What You Will Learn |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Electrical installation, maintenance and fault-finding |
| Fitter and Turner | Manufacturing, assembling and maintaining machinery |
| Millwright | Electrical and mechanical maintenance of industrial equipment |
| Boilermaker | Metal fabrication, structural assembly and welding |
| Welder | Welding techniques and metal joining |
| Diesel Mechanic | Repair and maintenance of diesel engines |
| Motor Mechanic | Vehicle servicing, diagnostics and repairs |
| Plumber | Installation and maintenance of water and drainage systems |
| Instrumentation Technician | Maintenance and calibration of industrial control equipment |
| Refrigeration Mechanic | Installation and repair of cooling and refrigeration systems |
The choice of trade will depend on your interests, qualifications and the apprenticeship opportunities available.
Companies Offering Apprenticeship Opportunities in South Africa
Several established employers have previously advertised apprenticeships or artisan development programmes. The organisations below are worth monitoring for new opportunities.
These are places to search for apprenticeships, not a claim that every organisation currently has an open intake.
1. Eskom Apprenticeships
Eskom is one of the organisations that matriculants interested in electrical and mechanical engineering can monitor.
Its apprenticeship and learner artisan programmes have included training in electrical, mechanical and control-and-instrumentation disciplines.
Some Eskom learner artisan advertisements have accepted Grade 12 candidates meeting specified Mathematics, Science and English requirements, as well as candidates with relevant technical college qualifications. Eskom
How to apply:
- Visit the official Eskom Careers website.
- Search for apprenticeship, learner artisan or technical learning programme vacancies.
- Read the minimum requirements.
- Register or sign in to the recruitment portal.
- Complete your application and upload the documents requested.
As of November 2026, Eskom has also advertised electrical artisan training opportunities with November application deadlines. Applicants should confirm availability directly on the official portal.
2. Transnet Apprenticeships
Transnet operates in South Africa’s freight transport, rail, ports and logistics sectors.
Its apprenticeship programmes have covered trades such as welding, electrical engineering, fitting and turning, millwright work and mechanical fitting.
For example, a Transnet apprentice welder advertisement in October 2026 accepted specified N2–N6, NC(V) Level 4 or technical Grade 12 qualifications. That intake has closed, but it provides an example of the qualifications Transnet may require. Job details
How to apply:
Visit the Transnet Talent Portal and search for apprentice or technical trainee positions.
3. Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) Apprenticeships
The Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent offers apprenticeship development programmes aimed at helping young people gain the skills needed to become qualified artisans.
MISA’s programmes support technical skills development linked to infrastructure and municipal services.
Its apprenticeship programme combines workplace learning with formal training and is generally structured over three years.
Applicants often need relevant technical or TVET qualifications for the advertised trade. Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent
How to apply:
Visit the MISA Apprenticeship and Learnership Programmes page to check advertisements, application forms and participating municipalities.
4. Mining Company Apprenticeships
South Africa’s mining industry offers career pathways in engineering and maintenance trades.
Matriculants interested in mining-related technical careers can monitor employers such as:
- Anglo American
- Exxaro
- Seriti Resources
- Sibanye-Stillwater
- Harmony Gold
- Impala Platinum
Apprenticeship opportunities may include fitting, electrical maintenance, diesel mechanics, instrumentation and other engineering trades.
Applicants should check each company’s official careers website for advertised vacancies and requirements.
5. Automotive Industry Apprenticeships
The automotive sector provides opportunities for young people interested in vehicle manufacturing, repairs and technical maintenance.
Companies and employers worth monitoring include Toyota South Africa, Volkswagen Group Africa, BMW South Africa, Mercedes-Benz South Africa and accredited vehicle dealerships.
Potential training areas include motor mechanics, automotive electrical work, body repair, spray painting and industrial maintenance.
Not all programmes are open to applicants with ordinary matric alone. Some require relevant technical subjects or qualifications.
Where to Find Apprenticeships in South Africa
Finding a legitimate apprenticeship starts with knowing where to search.
| Organisation or Platform | Official Website |
|---|---|
| Eskom Careers | https://www.eskom.co.za/careers/ |
| Transnet Talent Portal | https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ |
| merSETA | https://www.merseta.org.za/ |
| MISA | https://www.misa.gov.za/ |
| National Artisan Development Support Centre | https://nadsc.dhet.gov.za/ |
| Department of Higher Education and Training | https://www.dhet.gov.za/ |
| Employment Services of South Africa | https://essa.labour.gov.za/ |
Check these platforms regularly because apprenticeship opportunities are advertised at different times throughout the year.
How to Apply for Apprenticeships in South Africa
If you have completed matric and want to apply for an apprenticeship, follow these steps.
Step 1: Choose the Trade You Want to Study
Start by deciding which technical career interests you most.
For example, if you enjoy Mathematics, technology and electrical systems, an electrical apprenticeship may be suitable.
If you enjoy repairing vehicles, you may prefer a motor mechanic or diesel mechanic apprenticeship.
Step 2: Search for Available Opportunities
Visit official company careers websites, SETA websites and government employment platforms.
Search using keywords such as:
- Apprenticeships 2027 South Africa
- Apprenticeships for matriculants
- Electrical apprenticeships
- Artisan training programmes
- Apprenticeships with Grade 12
- Apprenticeships without experience
Always check the advertisement date and closing date.
Step 3: Check the Minimum Requirements
Before applying, read the advertisement carefully.
Some apprenticeship programmes require a specific percentage in Mathematics or Physical Sciences.
Others accept relevant technical matric, N2, N3 or NC(V) qualifications.
Do not assume that having a matric certificate automatically qualifies you for every apprenticeship.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Most apprenticeship applications require some combination of the following documents:
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV).
- South African ID document.
- Matric certificate or latest available academic results.
- Relevant TVET college certificates, if applicable.
- Academic transcripts.
- Proof of address, where required.
- Any additional documents specified in the advertisement.
For example, MISA’s published application guidance requires applicants to provide a CV, relevant qualifications, identification and proof of residential address. Cooperative Governance Dept.
Certification requirements vary. Only submit certified copies where specifically requested.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application
Open the official application link and create a profile if necessary.
Enter your personal information, educational qualifications and contact details.
Upload the required documents in the correct format.
Review everything before submitting your application.
Step 6: Submit Before the Closing Date
Late apprenticeship applications are often not considered.
Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute website problems.
Keep a copy of your application confirmation or reference number.
Step 7: Prepare for Assessments and Interviews
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to complete technical or psychometric assessments, interviews or medical assessments where relevant to the job.
Selection methods differ between employers.
Prepare by revising basic Mathematics, technical concepts and workplace safety principles applicable to your chosen trade.
Can You Apply for Apprenticeships Without Work Experience?
Yes. Many apprenticeship programmes are designed for people entering the workplace for the first time.
In fact, the purpose of an apprenticeship is to provide structured training and practical experience.
Some programmes specifically target unemployed young people who have completed school or technical college qualifications.
However, applicants must still meet the academic and other eligibility requirements.
Do Apprentices Get Paid in South Africa?
Apprentices may receive wages or training allowances during their apprenticeship.
The amount depends on the employer, trade, training contract and applicable industry agreements.
For example, merSETA explains that apprentice wages in certain sectors are determined according to industry bargaining council arrangements and training levels. MerSETA
Applicants should check the advertised remuneration and contract terms rather than assuming that all apprenticeships pay the same stipend.
How Long Does an Apprenticeship Take?
Apprenticeships usually involve several years of training, although the exact duration depends on the trade and programme.
Some programmes take approximately three years, while others may take up to four years or follow different training requirements.
During this period, learners complete theoretical training and workplace-based practical training.
After meeting the relevant requirements, apprentices can apply to complete a trade test.
Successful candidates may then obtain a recognised trade qualification.
What Is the Difference Between an Apprenticeship and a Learnership?
Although apprenticeships and learnerships both provide training opportunities, they are not exactly the same.
| Apprenticeship | Learnership |
|---|---|
| Usually focuses on a designated trade | Covers various occupational fields |
| Combines technical theory with workplace practice | Combines structured learning with workplace experience |
| Common in engineering, construction and mechanical trades | Available across multiple economic sectors |
| Usually leads towards a trade test | Leads towards a registered occupational qualification |
| Duration depends on the trade and programme | Duration depends on the registered qualification |
Both are legitimate routes towards gaining qualifications and practical work experience. MerSETA+1
Can You Become a Qualified Artisan Without Going to University?
Yes. A university degree is not a requirement for becoming a qualified artisan.
Many artisans begin their careers through apprenticeships and accredited technical training.
A matriculant can pursue a relevant apprenticeship, complete the required practical and theoretical training, and pass the applicable trade test.
TVET colleges can also provide an alternative route into artisan development.
For learners who prefer practical careers, this can be an attractive option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apprenticeships
1. Can I apply for an apprenticeship with Grade 12?
Yes. Some apprenticeship programmes accept Grade 12 qualifications, especially where applicants meet the required Mathematics, Science or technical subject criteria.
2. Can I apply with Mathematical Literacy?
It depends on the trade and employer. Some programmes require Mathematics rather than Mathematical Literacy, particularly for electrical and engineering apprenticeships.
3. Are apprenticeships available for people without matric?
Yes. Some trades provide access routes for applicants with qualifications below Grade 12. However, the specific advertised requirements must be met.
4. Are there apprenticeships for 2027 in South Africa?
Employers advertise apprenticeship opportunities at different times of the year. Matriculants planning to apply in 2027 should monitor official employer and training authority websites.
5. Do I need to pay to apply for an apprenticeship?
You should not pay a recruiter or intermediary to secure an apprenticeship position. Be cautious of individuals requesting payment for application forms, interviews or guaranteed placements.
6. Can I apply for more than one apprenticeship?
Yes, unless a specific employer restricts multiple applications. You can apply for different programmes that match your qualifications and interests.
7. Will I get a permanent job after completing an apprenticeship?
Not necessarily. Completing an apprenticeship can improve your employment prospects, but permanent employment is not automatically guaranteed.
8. Which apprenticeship is best for matriculants?
The most suitable apprenticeship depends on your school subjects, abilities and career interests. Electrical, mechanical, automotive and fabrication trades are among the options worth exploring.
Final Thoughts
Apprenticeships offer South African matriculants an alternative pathway into skilled employment without necessarily attending university.
Through practical workplace training, classroom learning and trade assessments, young people can develop the skills needed for careers in engineering, mining, manufacturing, construction and automotive industries.
Whether you have Grade 12, technical matric or a relevant TVET qualification, there may be apprenticeship programmes suited to your educational background.
For matriculants preparing for 2027, the most important step is to start searching early, prepare your documents and apply through official recruitment platforms before the advertised closing dates.
With the right training, dedication and experience, an apprenticeship can be the beginning of a long-term technical career.