The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has officially opened applications for the Military Skills Development System (MSDS) 2027 intake.
Application Period:
16 February 2026 – 27 March 2026
The SANDF MSDS Application Form 2027 allows young South Africans to apply for a two-year voluntary military training programme in:
- SA Army
- SA Navy
- SA Air Force
- SA Military Health Service (SAMHS)
What Is the SANDF MSDS Programme?
The Military Skills Development System (MSDS) is a structured two-year contract programme.
Year 1:
- Basic military training
- Functional training within your selected service
Year 2:
- Deployment to operational units
- Practical leadership development
- Specialized work experience
This programme builds discipline, leadership skills, and professional military experience.
SANDF MSDS 2027 Requirements
To qualify for the SANDF MSDS 2027 intake, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen (No dual citizenship)
- Be between 18 – 22 years old (Grade 12)
- Graduates may apply up to 26 years old
- Have a Matric certificate
- Meet minimum APS 18 (excluding Life Orientation)
- No criminal record
- Be medically fit
- Pass drug testing, psychometric tests & medical evaluation
- Have no visible tattoos (when wearing uniform)
Maths & Physical Science are required for specialized fields such as Aviation and Engineering.
Documents Required for SANDF MSDS Application 2027
When submitting your SANDF MSDS application form 2027, attach:
- Completed SANDF MSDS Application Form
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate (2025 statement of results accepted)
- Certified copies of tertiary qualifications (if applicable)
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply for SANDF MSDS 2027
Step 1: Download the SANDF MSDS Application Form 2027
Ensure you use the official form.
Step 2: Complete the Form Carefully
Fill in:
- Biographical information
- Residential address
- Contact details
- Education history
- Province selection
- Declaration section
Double-check all information before submission.
Step 3: Attach Required Documents
Ensure all documents are certified and clear.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You can:
- Hand deliver to the nearest recruitment centre
OR - Post to:
Department of Defence
Human Resource Division
Chief Directorate HR Management
Directorate HR Acquisition
Private Bag X976
Pretoria
0001
Important Notice
If you have not been contacted by 31 December 2027, consider your application unsuccessful.
Late applications will not be accepted.
SANDF MSDS 2027 Intake – Key Dates
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Intake | MSDS 2027 |
| Applications Open | 16 February 2026 |
| Closing Date | 27 March 2026 |
| Programme Duration | 2 Years |
| Age Limit | 18 – 22 (26 for graduates) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SANDF MSDS Application Form 2027 free?
Yes. The form is NOT for sale.
Can I apply without Matric?
No. Grade 12 is required.
Can I apply with a criminal record?
No. Applicants must have no criminal record.
Where do I submit the MSDS 2027 application?
Submit to the nearest recruitment centre or post to the HR Acquisition office in Pretoria.
Final Advice to Improve Your Chances
Start preparing early:
- Improve physical fitness (running, push-ups, sit-ups)
- Ensure documents are properly certified
- Double-check your application before submission