Do you get paid for inservice training?

In South Africa, in-service training is essential to establishing a prosperous career, particularly for students and young professionals seeking practical experience. However, a frequently asked topic is whether in-service training in South Africa is compensated.

In addition to providing you with some useful information about what to anticipate, let’s dissect this question and provide an honest response.

What is In-Service Training?

In-service training, sometimes referred to as experiential learning or work-integrated learning (WIL), is when students — especially those studying at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges or universities of technology — complete practical work experience as part of their qualification.

It’s typically required in fields like:

  • Engineering

  • Hospitality

  • IT and Computer Sciences

  • Health Sciences

  • Business Management

The purpose? To apply what you’ve learned in class to a real-world working environment.

So, Do You Get Paid for In-Service Training?

The Short Answer: It depends.

While there’s no legal obligation in South Africa for companies to pay students during in-service training, some employers do offer stipends or allowances, especially for longer-term placements or if the work is intensive.

Here’s what typically happens:

  • Unpaid Training: Many companies offer unpaid in-service training, especially if it’s short-term or if the company is small. In these cases, the student gains experience and fulfills their qualification requirements, but doesn’t earn a salary or stipend.

  • Paid Training / Stipend: Some organisations — especially large corporates, government departments, or companies working with SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities) — provide stipends to help with transport, meals, or basic living costs.

If your in-service training is funded by a SETA (like MICTSETA, CATHSSETA, or MERSETA), there’s a higher chance you’ll receive a stipend.

How Much Can You Expect to Earn?

Again, it varies. But here are some rough estimates:

  • Unpaid: R0 (but you gain valuable experience)

  • With a stipend: Anywhere from R2,000 to R6,000 per month, depending on the sector, location, and company size.

How to Find Paid In-Service Training Opportunities

If you’re hoping to land a paid in-service training position, try these strategies:

  1. Apply through SETA programs – Many of them fund workplace experience for qualifying students.

  2. Check job boards like Indeed, Careers24, and PNet – Use keywords like “paid in-service training South Africa” or “WIL programme with stipend.”

  3. Network with professionals in your field – Sometimes, the best opportunities come through referrals.

  4. Visit your campus career office – They often partner with companies offering paid training.

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