The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has invited applications for its 2026 Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme in Gauteng. This programme provides unemployed TVET College students with valuable workplace experience in the public sector. Participants also receive a monthly stipend to assist with transport and living expenses.

In addition, SASSA previously accepted applications for its Graduate Internship Programme. However, the graduate application window has already closed. Therefore, only eligible TVET students can still apply for the WIL Programme before the closing date.

The programme allows students to develop practical skills while working alongside experienced professionals. As a result, participants improve their employability and prepare for future career opportunities.

SASSA Programme Tracks and Monthly Stipends

SASSA offers two structured training programmes designed for different groups of applicants.

Programme	Target Group	Monthly Stipend	Duration	Closing Date	Status
Graduate Internship Programme	University and University of Technology Graduates	R8,174.80	24 Months	30 June 2026	Closed
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme	TVET College Students	R5,639.75	18 Months	30 July 2026	Open

Applicants should note that only the WIL Programme remains open. Therefore, TVET students should submit their applications before the deadline.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all minimum requirements before submitting an application.

General Requirements

Be a South African citizen.
Possess a valid green barcoded ID or Smart ID Card.
Be between 18 and 35 years old.
Be unemployed.
Live within Gauteng Province.
Not participate in another internship, learnership, or graduate programme.

WIL Programme Requirements

Applicants must also provide an official letter from their TVET College. The letter should confirm that practical workplace training is required to complete their qualification.

Benefits of Joining the SASSA WIL Programme

The SASSA WIL Programme offers more than financial support. Participants also gain practical experience that strengthens their professional profile.

Successful applicants receive:

Monthly financial assistance.
Practical workplace training.
Professional mentorship.
Public sector work experience.
Improved employability.
Exposure to government operations.
Opportunities to build valuable workplace skills.

Consequently, graduates enter the job market with stronger practical knowledge and greater confidence.

Skills You Will Develop

Participants work under experienced supervisors throughout the programme. Therefore, they develop essential workplace competencies that employers value.

Key skills include:

Public Administration Skills

Social grant administration.
Public service delivery.
Data capturing.
Record management.

Customer Service Skills

Client communication.
Problem-solving.
Complaint resolution.
Professional ethics.

Office Administration Skills

Filing systems.
Minute taking.
Internal communication.
Digital literacy.
Administrative support.

These transferable skills remain valuable across both public and private sector careers.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare a complete application package before submission.

The required documents include:

Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Certified copy of South African ID.
Certified copies of qualifications.
Certified academic transcripts.
Official TVET College WIL placement letter.
Completed and signed Z83 Application Form.

Incomplete applications may not receive consideration. Therefore, applicants should ensure every required document is included.

How to Apply for the SASSA Gauteng WIL Programme 2026

SASSA does not accept online applications for this programme. Instead, applicants must submit their documents physically.

Option 1: Hand Delivery

Applicants may deliver their application directly to the regional office.

SASSA Regional Office
Ground Floor
222 Smit Street
Braamfontein
Johannesburg
2017

Option 2: Postal Submission

Applicants may also send their application through registered post.

Attention: Human Capital Management
Private Bag X120
Marshalltown
2107

Ensure that all documents reach SASSA before the closing date.

Important Closing Dates

Applicants should carefully note the application deadlines.

Graduate Internship Programme: Closed on 30 June 2026.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme: Closes on 30 July 2026.

Late applications will not be accepted. Therefore, eligible TVET students should submit their applications as early as possible.

Why You Should Apply

The SASSA Gauteng Work Integrated Learning Programme provides an excellent opportunity for TVET students to gain meaningful workplace experience. Furthermore, participants receive a monthly stipend while completing practical training required for their studies.

The programme also helps students build professional skills, expand their experience, and improve future employment prospects. If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your application documents and submit them before 30 July 2026 to avoid missing this valuable opportunity.

Siphesihle Rose Dlamini

Siphesihle Rose Dlamini is the Founder and Lead Content Editor of AfterMatric24, a South Africa–based digital publication (aftermatric24.co.za) that covers education, bursaries, government programmes, and
career opportunities. He has extensive experience researching and verifying information from official institutions, universities, and public sector sources.

SASSA Gauteng Internship & Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme 2026: Apply for Monthly Stipends Up to R8,174