How to Join the SANDF | Entry Requirements and Document Needed, This page will help you apply for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and also let you know the entry requirements and other documents required from you. If you are interested in working for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), this page will give you a step-by-step guide on how to apply successfully.
ABOUT SANDF
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) comprises the armed forces of South Africa. The commander of the SANDF is appointed by the President of South Africa from one of the armed services. They are in turn accountable to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans of the Defence Department.
MISSION
The primary mission of the SANDF is to defend South Africa against external military aggression. The other functions are secondary. The size, design, structure and budget of the SANDF will therefore be determined mainly by its primary mission.
ARMS OF SANDF
- South African Army.
- South African Air Force.
- South African Navy.
- South African Military Health Service.
REQUIREMENTS FOR JOINING THE SANDF
Applicants must comply with the following general criteria:
- Must be a South African Citizen (no dual citizenship).
- Must have no criminal offences.
- Must comply with medical fitness requirements for appointment in the SANDF – applicants applying for SA Army and SA Air Force (Pilot and Navigators) should comply with minimum height and weight requirements as stipulated in the advertisements)
- Must not be area bound.
- Must preferably be single.
APPLYING FOR LATEST JOBS AT THE SANDF
To join any of the SANDF forces: SA Army, SA Air force or SA Navy, kindly follow the steps below to get started with the application process;
STEP 1: Visit South African National Defence Force SANDF Website.
STEP 2: Click on the force you want to apply for.
STEP 3: On the page, navigate and click on ‘Application form‘
STEP 4: Click on ‘Download‘
STEP 5: Download and save.
Applicants must download the Application Form 2022 listed from the SANDF website, fill them out, and submit them to the address listed on each of the application forms. You can see the contact details of all the forces under SANDF below;
1. SA ARMY CONTACT ADDRESS
The South African Department of Defence,
Directorate Human Resource acquisition,
Private Bag X2381,
Pretoria, 0001.
2. SA NAVY CONTACT ADDRESS
The Department of Defence,
SA Navy Headquarters (Recruitment Center)
Private Bag X104,
Pretoria, 0001.
3. SAAF CONTACT ADDRESS
SA Air Force Headquarters (Directorate of Human Resource Services),
Private Bag X199,
Pretoria, 0001.
4. SANDF CONTACT ADDRESS
Postal Address: Private Bag X427,
PRETORIA, 0001.
PO Box 47, CAPE TOWN, 8000
The key to being employed in SANDF is meeting the requirements and also passing all the tests. If you are interested in joining any of the SANDF forces, We would advise you to go through the SA Military Skill Development System (MSDS) to make it easier for you.
NOTE:
MSDS APPLICATION PROCESS
- Do not undergo psychometric evaluation
- Only medical examination, Fingerprints and mustering interview
- Still undergo normal MSDS Programme:
- Basic Military Training
- Corps Training
- The same principles apply as for GR 12 when considered for CSS contract
- May be considered for officer training if the candidate meets the requirements
SELECTION PROCESS
Applications complying with the minimum requirements will be subjected to further screening. Candidates identified will then be invited to partake in a selection process.
The selection process entails the following:
Psychometric evaluation:
The aim is to assess the candidates’ aptitude and potential to develop in the position that was applied for. The nature of these tests will depend on the position applied for.
Selection Board (formal interview):
A Selection Board will be conducted in order to assess the applicants’ interest in the position applied for, as well as their interest in the Defence Force in general. The interview will also focus on self-confidence, leadership potential, and communication skills.
Medical Evaluation:
A comprehensive medical evaluation will be conducted by appointed military medical practitioners in order to assess the applicants’ medical history and current medical status. All applicants must be declared fit for military training before commencement.
Criminal Records:
Fingerprints of applicants will be sent to the Criminal Record Bureau for verification. Records of convictions will be evaluated based on the severity thereof and how recently the offense occurred.
Offer of Employment
Successful applicants will receive an offer of employment. Candidates who are not successful will be informed by correspondence. It is unfortunate that not all applicants who are recommended for training will receive an offer of employment due to the large number of applications received.
BASIC MILITARY TRAINING
Basic Military Training is compulsory to all uniform personnel of the SA National Defence Force and is presented at the Air Force Gymnasium Boston (AFB Hoedspruit), over a period of approximately 13 weeks.
The following subjects will, amongst others, be presented during the training period:
- Drill
- Military law
- Military ceremonies
- Buddy aid
- Physical training and Soldiership
