How to Apply for the Military Skills Development System (MSDS) in South Africa -2026 Intake.
If you have always been interested in joining the military but are unsure how to start, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the MSDS application process.
OVERVIEW
The MSDS is a two-year voluntary service program designed to provide young South Africans with military training and skills. Participants gain valuable experience and may be considered for further service in the South African Army, Air Force, Navy, or Military Health Service after completing the program.
The South African Defence Force, through its Military Skills Development System (MSDS), is offering young South African citizens an opportunity to serve in uniform 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, depending on the duration of the functional orientation, they will be deployed where needed and given opportunity to apply their knowledge and develop their skills.\
MSDS Application Requirements
To qualify for the MSDS, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Aged between 18 and 22 years (with Grade 12) or up to 26 years (for those with tertiary qualifications)
- Have no criminal record
- Be medically fit (a comprehensive medical examination is required)
- Meet specific educational requirements (Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science for technical fields)
How to Apply for the MSDS Program
Step 1.
Check for Available Applications: MSDS applications are typically open annually. Visit the official SANDF website or follow their social media pages to stay updated on application opening dates.
Step 2.
Download and Complete the Application Form: Application forms can be downloaded from the SANDF website during the recruitment period. Ensure you fill out the form accurately and attach all required documents.
Step 3.
Prepare Supporting Documents: The documents Include, Certified copy of your South African ID, Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate (or latest school results if still in matric), Proof of any additional qualifications (if applicable), A detailed CV
Step 4.
Submit Your Application: Applications can be submitted via post to the specified SANDF recruitment offices. Ensure your application reaches the office before the closing date.
How to Submit your MSDS Form After Applying
Forms may be submitted at the following regional offices:
FREE STATE REGIONAL OFFICE
Army Support Base Bloemfontein
Recruitment Office
Pappa Brits Street Tempe
Bloemfontein, 9300
Enquiries: 051 402 1262
LIMPOPO PROVINCE REGIONAL OFFICE
Army Support Base
Recruitment Office
Building T143
Gateway Road
Polokwane, 0699
Enquiries: 015 299 3318
KWAZULU NATAL REGIONAL OFFICE
Recruitment Office
Lords Ground Military Base
186 Old Ford Road (KE Masinga Road)
Durban
Enquiries: 012 339 5042
EASTERN CAPE REGIONAL OFFICE
Army Support Base Recruitment Office
Willow Drive, Forest Hill
Port Elizabeth, 6013
Enquiries: 041 505 1101/1268
NORTHERN CAPE REGIONAL OFFICE
Army Support Base Recruitment Office
General Khan van der Spuy Avenue
Diskobolos
Kimberley, 8301
Enquiries: 053 830 3204
GAUTENG REGIONAL OFFICE
Army Support Base Recruitment Office
C/o Visagie ∓ Paul Kruger Street
Pretoria, 0001
Enquiries: 012 339 5718/5754/5042
WESTERN CAPE REGIONAL OFFICE
Army Support base
Castle of Good Hope
Recruitment Office
Block C, C/o Buiten & Strand Street
Cape Town, 8000
Enquiries: (021) 787 1023/4
School of Logistics Training
Wetton Road, Wetton
Cape Town
Enquiries: 021 7871527
MPUMALANGA
Army Support Base
8 Spruit Street
Mbombela, 1201
Enquiries: 013 249 3534
Note: The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) does not have any online application system. Forms can also be obtained from the above office.
