The applications for the SANDF Military Skills Development for 2027 are open. Apply before the set closing date in order to be considered.
Table of Contents
Why Must I Join SANDF Military Skills Development?
Here are few things you must know about the programme:
Two-year structured military training programme
Development of discipline, leadership and teamwork skills
Monthly stipend during training and service
Opportunity to serve the country
Valuable work experience and career exposure
The MSDS programme is highly competitive and only eligible candidates who
meet the requirements will be considered. Applicants are encouraged to ensure
all required documentation is completed accurately before submission.
SANDF Application Forms 2026 and 2027
The Military Skills Development System (MSDS) allows South African citizens to serve in the four arms of the military on a two year contract.
The recruits will receive military training and further functional training in their first year of service. During the second year of service they will get to practice their speciality at a base somewhere across the country.
General Requirements for the MSDS 2026/2027
- A South African Citizen (No dual citizenship).
- Age between 18 and 22 at the time of joining (Completed Grade 12 or N3 with 6 subjects including two languages) or not more than 26 if in possession of a 3-year tertiary qualification (Degree, National Diploma or N6 with N4 and N5 prescript).
- Preferably single.
- Comply with medical fitness requirements for appointment in the SANDF.
- Currently in Grade 12 or completed Grade 12 or equivalent with subjects specific to a career selection.
- Not be area bound.
- Must not have a criminal record.
- Comply with medical fitness requirements for appointment in the SANDF.
- Comply with all other prescribed requirements for appointment in the SANDF.
- Must be willing to relocate and participate in deployments both in South Africa and abroad if required to do so.
- Be recommended by a selection board.
Military Application Forms 2026 and 2027
Applicants are reminded that forms can be found at all SANDF regional offices as well as on the official SANDF website. SANDF reminds candidates that the application process is free and no amount of money is required to apply.
Members of the public are encouraged to report such actions or persons who demand money with the promise of employment in the SANDF to the nearest police station or SANDF unit and base.
SANDF Application Form 2026 2027 PDF
For this year’s MSDS there is only one application form. In previous years there were separate application forms for each of the different services within the military. This year there is only one form as all recruits complete the same basic training. During the basic training applicants can then apply for the different services.
Download the Application Form
SANDF-MSDS-Application-2026.pdf
Where to Submit the Applications for SANDF Military Skills Development for 2027
Regional Recruitment Offices and Contact Details
North West
Eleazer Road, Potchefstroom, 2531
Enquiries: 018 289 3322
Gauteng
Regional Office Gauteng
Recruitment Office
C/O 218 Visagie and Paul Kruger Street
Pretoria Central, 0001
Enquiries: 012 339 5718 / 5703
Job application assistance
Mpumalanga
Regional Office Mpumalanga
Army Support Base
8 Spruit Street, Mbombela, 1201
Enquiries: 013 756 2113 / 2181
Alternatively:
4 South African Battalion
C/O Dr Beyers Naude and Boncker Street
Middelburg, Mpumalanga, 1050
Enquiries: 013 249 3534
