Hey South Africa! Are you a recent graduate or a student eager to kickstart your career and gain valuable experience? The South African Police Service (SAPS) has an incredible opportunity that’s more than just a job – it’s a chance to serve your country, develop real-world skills, and get paid while doing it!
We’re talking about the **SAPS Graduate Recruitment Scheme 2025**. While it’s officially an internship program, many students consider it a form of ‘bursary’ due to the financial support (stipend) provided and the crucial experience gained that can launch your career. This 12-month program is designed to bring fresh talent into various divisions across all nine provinces, giving you a unique entry point into public service and the chance to apply your academic knowledge in a practical setting, contributing directly to community safety.
Who Can Apply?
Are you eligible to join the SAPS team? Here’s who they’re looking for:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You need to have an NSC/Matric or NCV Level 4 qualification.
- You must have absolutely no criminal record or pending cases.
- You should be currently unemployed, never have been employed in the field of the advertised post, and never have participated in a relevant internship programme before.
- You must be a resident of the province where the specific post is advertised.
- You can apply for up to three posts, but remember to submit a separate application form for each post reference!
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just about gaining experience; it’s about getting *paid* for it and launching your career! Here’s what you can expect from the SAPS Graduate Recruitment Scheme:
- Stipend: You’ll receive a monthly stipend, though the exact amount is determined by the Divisional Commissioner: Human Resource Development and varies by province. It’s a fantastic way to support yourself while gaining valuable skills.
- 12 Months of Hands-on Experience: The scheme runs for a full year, giving you extensive exposure and practical skills in a professional public service environment.
- Diverse Opportunities: This scheme offers a wide array of roles across various professional disciplines. You can find opportunities in areas like Social Work, Legal Services, IT, Supply Chain Management, HR, Psychology, Communications, Finance, and even specialized trades like Motor Mechanics, Plumbers, and Electricians.
- Professional Development: Build highly marketable skills, contribute directly to community safety, and potentially pave the way for future employment within SAPS.
How to Apply?
Ready to take the leap and join the SAPS team? Here’s your step-by-step guide to applying:
- Get the Application Form: You’ll need the official SAPS Graduate Recruitment Scheme application form. You can usually find it on the main SAPS Careers page under the “Graduate Recruitment Scheme” section.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather these items:
- An updated CV.
- *Uncertified* copies of your SA ID, Matric certificate, and *all* your post-school qualifications with their statements of results.
- Choose Wisely: You can apply for up to **three** different posts! Just ensure you submit a **separate application form for each post reference**.
- Mark It Clearly: Crucially, each application must clearly state the **post reference number** and the **province** you’re applying to.
- Submit In Person or Post: This is crucial – applications must be **posted or hand-delivered** to the *relevant provincial address*. **No faxed or emailed applications will be accepted**, so plan ahead!
- Find Your Province’s Details & Specific Posts: To see the full list of available posts by province, including specific reference numbers, application addresses, and contact details, **download the official provincial adverts below**.
- Important Closing Dates: Please note that the closing date for **Gauteng Province was 12 September 2025** (which has now passed). Most other provinces close on **18 September 2025**. Make sure you apply for positions that are still open!
| Post Description | Closing Date |
| Eastern Cape Province | 2025-09-18 |
| Free State Province | 2025-09-18 |
| Gauteng Province | 2025-09-12 |
| KwaZulu Natal Province | 2025-09-18 |
| Limpopo Province | 2025-09-18 |
| Mpumalanga Province | 2025-09-18 |
| Northern Cape Province | 2025-09-18 |
| North West Province | 2025-09-18 |
| Western Cape Province | 2025-09-18 |
Selection & Important Notes
Heads up! If you’re shortlisted, get ready for fingerprint screening, interviews, and vetting. Only successful candidates will be contacted within four (4) months of the closing date. Remember, this 12-month contract is for an internship and does not guarantee permanent employment with SAPS, but it’s an incredible foot in the door!
If gaining invaluable experience, serving your country, and getting a stipend sounds like your kind of opportunity, then don’t miss out on the SAPS Graduate Recruitment Scheme 2025! Head over to the SAPS website, download those forms, and get your application in before the closing date. Your future in public service could start right here!