SETA Free Security Training

Discover everything about SETA Free Security Training in South Africa — eligibility, application steps, stipends, benefits and opportunities.

South Africa’s demand for skilled, professional security officers is constantly growing. With rising safety concerns in communities, businesses, and institutions, the security sector is one of the most active employers in the country. Yet, the cost of training can discourage many young people from pursuing this career path.

That’s why SETA Free Security Training is such a game-changer. It removes the financial barrier, providing unemployed youth and aspiring officers with accredited, fully funded training opportunities that lead directly to employment.

This guide explores everything you need to know about SETA Free Security Training — from eligibility requirements to the application process, stipends, course content, and future career options.

Table of Contents

What Is SETA Free Security Training?

When people hear about SETA Free Security Training, they often think it’s “too good to be true.” But it’s real, and here’s how it works.

Understanding SETA

SETA stands for Sector Education and Training Authority. There are 21 SETAs in South Africa, each focusing on skills development within specific industries.

The Safety and Security SETA (SASSETA) is the one responsible for training in:

Private security services
Policing and law enforcement
Correctional services
Legal and justice professions

Why Is Security Training Free?

Training is funded by the skills development levy — a small percentage that employers pay into a central fund. SASSETA uses this money to:

Provide learnerships (structured, funded training programs).
Support skills programs (short accredited courses).
Ensure there’s a pipeline of qualified security professionals to meet industry demand.

👉 This means learners can access world-class training at no personal cost, while also receiving stipends to help cover basic living expenses.

Why Security Training Matters in South Africa

Security is not just about guarding buildings. It’s about:

Protecting communities.
Safeguarding businesses and infrastructure.
Providing peace of mind in workplaces, events, and public spaces.

The South African security industry is one of the largest in the world, employing over 500,000 registered officers. With crime prevention a national priority, new jobs are continuously opening up.

This is why SETA invests in free security training — it benefits both learners and the economy.

What Courses Are Covered Under SETA Security Training?

The training isn’t one-size-fits-all. SASSETA funds a variety of courses depending on the learner’s background, career goals, and the industry’s needs.

1. PSIRA Grades Training

To legally work in security, officers must be registered with PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority). Training is divided into grades:

Grade E – Basic guarding skills (entry-level).
Grade D – Access control duties.
Grade C – Supervisory roles.
Grade B – Site/shift commander level.
Grade A – Senior management in security.

SETA funds training across these grades, enabling learners to progress up the career ladder.

2. Specialized Security Programs

Beyond basic guarding, SETA Free Security Training also includes specialized fields such as:

CCTV surveillance and monitoring.
Armed response.
Cash-in-transit operations.
Event security.
VIP protection and close combat.
Occupational health and safety.

3. National Certificate in Security Practices

Learnerships combine theoretical classroom learning with practical workplace training. Example:

National Certificate in General Security Practices (NQF Level 3/4).
Duration: 12 months.
Includes a monthly stipend.

Who Qualifies for SETA Free Security Training?

Eligibility is crucial. SASSETA focuses on empowering young, unemployed South Africans.

General Requirements:

South African citizen.
Aged 18–35 years (youth are prioritized).
Completed Grade 10 or Matric (depending on program).
No criminal record.
Physically fit and able to work in security.
Committed to completing the program.

Priority groups include:

Disadvantaged individuals.
Rural area applicants.
Women (to encourage gender diversity in security).

How to Apply for SETA Security Training

Here’s a clear roadmap for getting started.

Step 1: Look for Opportunities

Visit the SASSETA website.
Check adverts in newspapers, job portals, or community boards.
Approach accredited training providers.
Some security companies advertise learnerships funded by SETA.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You’ll usually need:

Certified copy of your ID.
Certified copy of school results (Grade 10/Matric).
Proof of residence.
Updated CV.
PSIRA registration (for higher-level courses).

Step 3: Submit Application

Applications can be online or in-person, depending on the provider.

Step 4: Attend Interviews or Assessments

Some programs require:

Basic literacy/numeracy tests.
Fitness assessments.
Motivation interviews.

Step 5: Acceptance and Contract

If accepted, you’ll sign a training contract and start your program.

Do Learners Get Paid During Training?

Yes! This is one of the most asked questions.

Learners on SETA Security Training receive a monthly allowance (stipend) to help cover living costs.

Range: R2,000 – R3,500 per month.
Paid directly by the training provider or SETA.
Covers transport, meals, and basic needs.

This makes training more accessible to unemployed learners who otherwise couldn’t afford to study full-time.

Benefits of SETA Free Security Training

Why should learners consider these programs?

Zero tuition fees — full funding.
Nationally recognized qualifications (PSIRA accredited).
Monthly stipends reduce financial strain.
Workplace experience prepares learners for jobs.
Direct job opportunities — many providers hire graduates.
✅ Pathway to higher learning (NQF qualifications).

Challenges of SETA Free Security Training

It’s important to be realistic. While the benefits are big, there are also challenges:

Limited intake — programs fill up quickly.
High competition — thousands apply every year.
Strict rules — poor attendance = stipend loss.
Scammers — some “colleges” pretend to offer SETA funding but are not accredited.

Always verify the provider with SASSETA and PSIRA before enrolling.

Where Can You Study SETA Free Security Training?

Training takes place at accredited centers, which can include:

SASSETA-accredited private academies.
TVET colleges offering security-related courses.
Private security companies running SETA-funded learnerships.

Career Paths After SETA Free Security Training

Once you complete the program, a wide range of opportunities open up:

Security guard (all grades).
Armed response officer.
Access control supervisor.
CCTV surveillance operator.
Event security specialist.
Cash-in-transit guard.
VIP bodyguard.
Security company entrepreneur.

Some graduates even use SETA training as a stepping stone into:

Law enforcement.
Correctional services.
Police or military careers.

Real Stories of SETA Security Training Success

Lerato – CCTV Operator

Lerato, 24, completed SETA-funded CCTV training. Today she works in a Johannesburg shopping mall control room, earning a stable income. “The stipend kept me going during training, and the job security gives me peace of mind.”

Kabelo – Armed Response Officer

Kabelo used to be unemployed after matric. Through SETA Free Security Training, he completed his Grade C and B certificates. Now he works for a major security company, with opportunities for promotion.

Zanele – Female Guard Supervisor

Zanele joined a SETA learnership despite doubts about entering a male-dominated field. Today, she leads a team of guards at an industrial site. “This program gave me confidence and financial independence.”

Common Questions About SETA Free Security Training

Q1: Is SETA security training really free?
Yes. Funded by employer levies, learners don’t pay tuition.

Q2: Do learners get a stipend?
Yes, R2,000–R3,500 per month.

Q3: How long does the training last?
Short courses = 1–3 months, learnerships = 12 months.

Q4: Do I need Matric?
👉 Some programs accept Grade 10, others require Matric.

Q5: Can women apply?
Absolutely! SASSETA encourages gender diversity.

Tips for Success in SETA Free Security Training

Apply early — spaces are limited.
Keep copies of all certified documents.
Be physically prepared — security is demanding.
Budget your stipend wisely.
Stay motivated — completion leads to career doors opening.

Final Thoughts: Why SETA Free Security Training Is a Life-Changing Opportunity

So, what makes SETA Free Security Training so valuable?

It removes the financial burden of tuition, provides practical training, pays learners a monthly stipend, and connects graduates to direct employment opportunities in one of South Africa’s fastest-growing industries.

For unemployed youth, this isn’t just training — it’s a pathway to financial independence, personal growth, and community impact.

If you’ve been wondering how to start a career in security but couldn’t afford the fees, SETA Free Security Training could be your gateway to a secure and meaningful future.