The FASSET Learnership Programmes 2026 offer structured accounting qualifications through AAT (SA). Learn who qualifies, available learnership options, entry requirements, and how to apply.
Programme Overview
Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority supports a range of accredited learnerships aimed at developing accounting and finance skills across South Africa. For 2026, FASSET-backed learnerships delivered through Association of Accounting Technicians South Africa provide multiple entry and progression routes for individuals seeking careers in accounting, finance, and public sector financial management.
These learnerships are aligned with nationally recognised qualifications and are delivered in partnership with professional bodies, including South African Institute of Chartered Accountants. Together, they support structured learning, workplace exposure, and professional membership outcomes.
Overview of Available FASSET Learnerships for 2026
The following five learnership programmes are available under the FASSET framework, each designed to meet different entry levels and career progression needs.
1. Advanced Certificate in Local Government Accounting Learnership
This learnership leads to the Advanced Certificate in Local Government Accounting, awarded by AAT and delivered in South Africa through AAT (SA). It is specifically designed for individuals working within local government finance environments.
Who Qualifies
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Successful completion of the NQF Level 3 Local Government Accounting Certificate learnership
- Relevant work experience aligned to the Level 3 qualification, with proven competence in communication and mathematics at NQF Level 3
Learners must have sufficient literacy and numeracy skills, be able to complete assessments in English, and be employed in a relevant local government finance role or under learnership conditions for the programme duration.
Learnership Structure and Outcome
- Registered at NQF Level 4
- Progresses to the AAT (SA) Higher Certificate at NQF Level 5
- Successful completion leads to AAT (SA) membership
The programme covers financial accounting, cost recording, cash management, computerised accounting systems, and financial information presentation for decision-making.
The duration is typically between 12 and 18 months.
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2. Accounting Technician Learnership (NQF Level 3)
This learnership provides an entry-level pathway into the accounting profession and is suitable for individuals preparing for technician-level roles.
Who Qualifies
There are no formal academic entry requirements. However, learners must:
- Demonstrate adequate literacy and numeracy
- Be able to complete assessments in English
- Be employed to participate in the learnership
Learnership Structure and Outcome
The programme progresses to the AAT (SA) FET Certificate in Accounting Technician at NQF Level 4 and leads to AAT (SA) Silver Membership. Learners gain practical experience in bookkeeping, ledger processing, cash management, and basic costing.
The duration typically ranges from 6 to 12 months.
3. Professional Accountant in Practice Learnership
This learnership is aligned with the Accounting Technician qualification and is aimed at individuals seeking structured entry into accounting practice environments.
Who Qualifies
Applicants must:
- Have adequate literacy and numeracy
- Be able to complete assessments in English
- Be employed for the duration of the programme
Learnership Structure and Outcome
Learners are introduced to double-entry bookkeeping, manual and computerised accounting systems, and administrative finance processes. Successful completion results in the AAT Certificate in Accounting Technician and AAT (SA) Silver Membership.
The programme duration is typically between 6 and 12 months, depending on learner progress.
4. Diploma in Accounting Technician Learnership (NQF Level 5)
This learnership provides a comprehensive, multi-level pathway leading to a full AAT Accounting Qualification.
Who Qualifies
There are no formal academic entry requirements, but learners must:
- Have strong literacy and numeracy skills
- Be able to complete assessments in English
- Be employed for the duration of the learnership
Learnership Structure and Outcome
The qualification is completed over three progressive levels:
- Certificate in Accounting
- Advanced Certificate in Accounting
- Diploma in Accounting
Learners develop skills in financial accounting, cost analysis, cash management, ethics, management accounting, and taxation. Successful completion leads to AAT (SA) membership.
The duration typically ranges from two to three years.
5. Certificate in Accounting Learnership (NQF Level 5)
This learnership is aimed at learners ready to perform advanced accounting tasks and build specialist competence.
Who Qualifies
Learners are generally expected to have completed the NQF Level 4 Accounting Technician qualification. Direct entry is possible if the applicant can demonstrate equivalent competence through assessments, prior learning, or relevant work experience.
Applicants must also:
- Have adequate literacy and numeracy
- Be able to complete assessments in English
- Be employed for the duration of the programme
Learnership Structure and Outcome
The programme consists of compulsory core units and two elective units, allowing learners to specialise in areas such as taxation, auditing, or credit management. Successful completion leads to AAT (SA) Platinum Membership.
The duration typically ranges from 12 to 18 months.
Registration and Assessment
All learnerships require registration through an AAT (SA) Approved Assessment Centre. Assessment methods include centrally set examinations, skills tests, case study projects, simulations, and where applicable, workplace evidence.
Learners must meet all academic and workplace requirements to be certified as competent.
How to Apply for FASSET Learnerships 2026
Applications for FASSET-supported AAT learnerships are managed through participating employers, municipalities, and accredited training providers. Interested candidates should confirm availability within their organisation or local authority and follow the prescribed registration and enrolment process.
Application typically includes completion of learner registration forms and submission of a valid identity document.
Career Value of FASSET Learnerships
FASSET learnerships provide nationally recognised qualifications, practical workplace experience, and professional body membership. Graduates are equipped for roles across public practice, industry, commerce, and the public sector, with clear progression pathways toward senior accounting and finance positions.
Conclusion
The FASSET Learnership Programmes 2026 offer structured, credible pathways into the accounting profession through AAT (SA) qualifications. With multiple entry points and progression options, these learnerships support long-term career development, professional recognition, and sustainable employment opportunities in South Africa’s finance and accounting sectors.
Thanks for the opportunity it means a lot, atleast we will gain more exposure in accounting and increase our knowledge and further our studies in the accounting field