SARS: Learnership Programme 2026
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) offers a structured cadet learnership programme designed to equip participants with specialized knowledge of the financial sector and the role of revenue services in the economy. Successful candidates work toward a qualification in International and Central Banking.
1. Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Employer | South African Revenue Service (SARS) |
| Location | Head Office, Pretoria |
| Target Group | Unemployed Graduates, FET College students, and Matriculants |
| Type | 12-Month Contract (Permanent appointment on probation) |
| Focus | Financial Sector, Risk Management, and Banking |
2. Fields of Study Covered
SARS looks for candidates who have completed (or are in the final stages of) a degree or qualification in:
Risk Management
Mathematical Sciences
Business Statistics or Econometrics
Accounting
Economics or Finance
Commercial Law
Money and Banking
3. Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the 2026 intake, you must meet the following:
Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
Education: A relevant degree or diploma (NQF 6/7) in the fields listed above, completed within the last two years.
Status: Must be currently unemployed.
Competencies: Strong analytical skills, numerical accuracy, and an interest in the South African economy.
4. Programme Structure
Location: Most participants are stationed at the Pretoria Head Office.
Training: Intensive work-based learning is provided through the SARB (South African Reserve Bank) Academy during the period.
Remuneration: Candidates receive a competitive contract salary for the duration of the learnership.
Probation: Participants are often appointed permanently on a one-year probation period upon entry.
5. How to Apply
SARS manages its recruitment through its official careers portal.
Online Portal: Visit the
SARS Vacancies Page .Registration: Create a profile on their e-Recruitment system.
Required Documents: * Updated CV.
Certified copy of your ID.
Certified copies of Qualifications and Academic Transcripts.
Enquiries: General enquiries can be directed to the SARS recruitment email (check the official portal for the specific year's contact address).
6. Important Advice
Placement: While the programme offers a competitive start, permanent placement after the contract depends on your performance and the availability of vacancies within the organization.
Vetting: Because SARS deals with national revenue and sensitive data, all candidates must undergo a strict security clearance and background check.
Application Rule: Ensure you use the specific Reference Number provided in the official advert once it goes live on the SARS site.
Accuracy: SARS values precision—ensure there are zero errors in your application forms.
7. Why Join SARS?
Prestige: SARS is one of the most efficient government organs in South Africa; having it on your CV is highly regarded.
Development: You get high-level exposure to the inner workings of the country's tax and financial systems.
Tip: If you have high marks in Econometrics or Statistics, make sure these are clearly visible on your academic transcript. These quantitative skills are highly prioritized during the screening process!

