Desperate for jobs: 1 million apply for 5 500 SAPS roles

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that it received more than one million applications for just 5 500 trainee positions.

Nov 3, 2025 - 09:00
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Desperate for jobs: 1 million apply for 5 500 SAPS roles

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that it received more than one million applications for just 5 500 trainee positions, underscoring the intense demand for employment and public service opportunities among young South Africans.

SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said the recruitment process is currently underway, with thousands of applicants already participating in the first stage of assessments.

Testing

“The first step for all applicants is psychometric and integrity testing, which is being conducted across all nine provinces,” Van Wyk said.

The selection process will also include physical fitness tests, vetting, and medical examinations to ensure that only the most suitable candidates are chosen for police training.

“These measures are in place to uphold the high standards expected of our officers,” she added.

Van Wyk said the service had received 1 021 563 applications by the 18 July 2025 closing date.

Of these, 334 765 were from graduates with tertiary qualifications in fields such as policing, law, and forensic investigation.

Preference in the recruitment process will be given to candidates holding NQF Level 6 qualifications or higher and those with a valid driver’s licence.

Dates to be announced

Van Wyk urged applicants to remain patient while the process continues, cautioning them against relying on unofficial communication.

“All applicants will be contacted by our recruitment teams if they are deemed suitable,” she said.

Training for successful recruits is expected to begin in 2026, with exact dates to be announced once the final selection process concludes.

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