South African National Defence Force (SANDF)
Military Skills Development System (MSDS) 2027 Intake – Traineeship Programme
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) invites motivated and disciplined young South Africans to apply for the Military Skills Development System (MSDS) 2027 Intake. This two-year training programme offers structured military training, valuable work experience, and the opportunity to serve the country with pride.
If you are passionate about leadership, teamwork, and national service, this traineeship could be your pathway into a professional military career.
Programme Overview
The MSDS is a 2-year contract programme designed to equip recruits with:
Basic military training
Specialist functional training
Leadership and discipline skills
Practical work experience within SANDF units
During the first year, successful candidates undergo basic military training followed by functional training in their selected branch. In the second year, trainees are deployed to units where they gain hands-on experience.
After completion, members may be considered for:
Further contract opportunities
Permanent Force positions (subject to availability)
Reserve Force service
Available Service Branches
Applicants may be placed within one of the following SANDF divisions:
Placement depends on qualifications, performance during selection, and operational requirements.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the MSDS 2027 Intake, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a South African citizen (no dual citizenship allowed)
Be between 18 and 22 years old (Grade 12 applicants)
Up to 26 years old if in possession of a 3-year tertiary qualification
Have completed or be completing Grade 12 (Matric)
Meet the required Admission Point Score (APS) where applicable
Be medically and physically fit
Have no serious criminal record or pending cases
Be willing to undergo psychological, medical, and fitness assessments
Certain specialised fields (such as engineering or aviation) may require Mathematics and Physical Science.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
Completed SANDF MSDS application form
Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Certified copy of South African ID
Certified copy of Matric certificate or latest results
Certified copies of tertiary qualifications (if applicable)
Applications are free of charge. The SANDF does not require any payment to apply.
Important Dates
Applications Open: February 2026
Closing Date: 27 March 2026
Training Commences: 2027
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted manually. There is no online application system.
You may:
✔ Hand-deliver your completed application to your nearest SANDF recruitment office
ORPost your application to:
Department of Defence
Human Resources Division
Chief
Directorate HR Management
Directorate HR Acquisition
Private Bag X976
Pretoria
0001
South Africa
It is recommended that applicants keep copies of all submitted documents.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will undergo:
Medical examination
Physical fitness evaluation
Psychometric assessment
Security screening
Selection is competitive, and meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
Why Join the SANDF MSDS?
Structured career development
Professional military training
Stable contract opportunity
National service experience
Leadership and discipline skills
Potential long-term military career pathway
Important Notice
If you have not been contacted by the end of December 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Start Preparing Today
If you meet the requirements and are ready to commit to a challenging but rewarding opportunity, prepare your documents early and ensure your application is submitted before the closing date.
Serving in the SANDF is more than a job — it is a commitment to discipline, service, and national pride
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