MSC Maritime Learnership 2026: Fully Funded Training

Who can apply

• MSC specifically targets youth from designated groups who are under 25 years old.
• Grade 12, commonly known as Matric.
• A minimum C aggregate.
• Mathematics as one of their Matric subjects.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong Microsoft Excel ability, which MSC lists as a prerequisite.
• The ability to use Microsoft Word and Outlook.
• Good communication skills.
• Previous work experience.
• A hardworking and reliable approach.
• The ability to work methodically.
• Importantly, the advertisement does not state how much previous work experience candidates need. Therefore, applicants should include any formal, temporary, volunteer or workplace exposure that demonstrates reliability and professional conduct.

How to apply

Applications are submitted directly to MSC Maritime - we do not collect applications. Read the eligibility criteria, prepare your supporting documents, then complete your application on the official page.

Full details

Mediterranean Shipping Company has opened its 2026 maritime learnership in Durban and Cape Town for designated-group youth under 25 with Matric, at least a C aggregate and Mathematics. Each phase runs for 12 months. MSC covers study costs and provides a monthly stipend plus a performance-based annual bonus. Applications close on 21 August 2026.

For young people interested in shipping, logistics and global trade, the programme combines nationally recognised qualifications with practical workplace experience. More importantly, MSC covers the study costs, allowing learners to focus on developing industry knowledge without paying tuition fees.

Candidates must choose either Durban or Cape Town when submitting. Once the programme begins, learners cannot move their placement to another region.

How does MSC’s three-phase pathway work?

MSC has structured its maritime training pathway into three qualification phases. Each phase runs for 12 months and combines theoretical learning with experiential training.

The three phases cover:

1. National Certificate in International Trade This phase introduces learners to the processes and principles that support trade between countries.
2. National Certificate in Freight Forwarding and Customs Compliance Learners develop knowledge related to cargo movement, freight processes and customs requirements.
3. Further Education and Training Certificate in Shipping This phase focuses more closely on the shipping environment and the systems that keep maritime trade moving.

At the end of each completed phase, learners obtain a nationally recognised qualification and relevant practical experience.

However, the advertisement does not state that admission to one phase automatically guarantees progression through all three phases. Candidates must continue meeting the programme’s attendance, assessment and conduct expectations.

What financial support will MSC provide?

MSC will fully subsidise the cost of studying during the learnership. Therefore, selected learners will not carry the programme’s tuition costs.

In addition, MSC will provide:

• A monthly stipend
• An annual performance-based bonus
• Theoretical learning
• Experiential workplace training
• A nationally recognised qualification after completing each phase

The employer has not published the monthly stipend or annual bonus amounts.

Moreover, learners must meet the relevant programme criteria to qualify for the annual bonus. MSC will consider factors such as attendance, assessment performance and conduct.

Who meets MSC’s entry requirements?

MSC specifically targets youth from designated groups who are under 25 years old.

Candidates need:

Importantly, the advertisement does not state how much previous work experience candidates need. Therefore, applicants should include any formal, temporary, volunteer or workplace exposure that demonstrates reliability and professional conduct.

Why does the regional choice matter?

Learners must complete their phase in the region where MSC initially places them. Consequently, candidates should choose between Durban and Cape Town carefully.

MSC will not allow learners to change regions during the programme. Before submitting, candidates should therefore consider:

• Their current place of residence
• Daily transport costs
• Travel time
• Family or accommodation commitments
• Their ability to remain in the selected region for 12 months

Applicants should not select a region simply because it appears more competitive or convenient during registration. Instead, they should choose the location where they can maintain reliable attendance throughout the programme.

Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: State your preferred region clearly in the email subject line and curriculum vitae. Because MSC will not permit regional changes during the programme, this detail can prevent confusion and show that you understand the commitment.

Which skills should candidates highlight?

MSC identifies Microsoft Excel as a prerequisite. As a result, candidates should make their spreadsheet ability visible rather than listing only general computer literacy.

Relevant Microsoft Excel skills may include:

• Capturing and organising data
• Creating and formatting spreadsheets
• Using basic formulas
• Sorting and filtering information
• Checking data for errors
• Preparing simple reports

Candidates should also mention their ability to use Microsoft Word and Outlook. For example, they can include experience preparing documents, writing professional emails, managing attachments or organising electronic information.

Moreover, maritime and logistics environments require accuracy. Applicants should therefore include examples that demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, communication and methodical working habits.

How can candidates prepare a stronger curriculum vitae?

Candidates should tailor their curriculum vitae to maritime training, international trade and freight operations.

First, they should place their Matric results near the beginning of the document. The curriculum vitae should clearly show the overall aggregate and Mathematics result.

Next, applicants can include:

• Their selected region
• Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook proficiency
• Previous work or volunteer experience
• Administrative or data-capturing experience
• Customer service exposure
• Logistics, transport or warehouse experience
• School leadership responsibilities
• Examples of reliable attendance and teamwork

However, candidates should keep the document concise and factual. A well-organised curriculum vitae will support the methodical qualities MSC expects.

How must candidates submit before 21 August 2026?

Email submissions must go to:

[email protected]

Candidates should address their submission to Tammy Pillay and complete the process before 21 August 2026.

A clear suggested email subject line would be:

MSC Learnership 2026 - Durban/Cape Town - Full Name

Applicants should replace “Durban/Cape Town” with their chosen region.

Before sending, candidates should:

• Attach an updated curriculum vitae.
• Confirm that the correct document opens properly.
• Include their Matric aggregate and Mathematics result.
• State their selected region clearly.
• Mention their Microsoft Excel proficiency.
• Use a professional email address.
• Check the recipient’s email address for typing errors.
• Submit before the closing date.

Finally, candidates should keep a copy of the sent email and curriculum vitae for their records.

Final Thoughts

The MSC Learnership Programme offers a structured entry into international trade, freight forwarding, customs compliance and shipping.

Ultimately, its combination of fully funded studies, recognised qualifications, workplace training, a monthly stipend and an annual performance bonus makes it a valuable opportunity for qualifying youth. However, candidates must meet the academic and computer requirements and submit their curriculum vitae before 21 August 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

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