The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa has once again opened its doors to a new generation of aspiring legal professionals. The Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme 2026/2027 offers a life-changing opportunity for South African LLB graduates to embark on a rewarding legal career.
With a 12-month structured training period, this programme provides practical exposure and intensive learning within the public service sector, paving the way for the country’s future prosecutors.
Details of the Training Programme
- Duration: 12 months (Full-time training)
- Salary: R252,855 – R292,596 per annum (LP-1 to LP-2 scale)
- Start Date: Anticipated to commence 1 March 2026
- Available Posts: Up to 100 aspirants across multiple centres nationwide
- Assessment: Ongoing formal and practical assessments
- Contract: Written contract with the NPA, outlining all conditions
Requirements: Who Can Apply?
The NPA is calling for applications from energetic, committed, and qualified South Africans who are eager to launch a career in public prosecution. The requirements are clear and inclusive:
- LLB Degree: Completed or final year LLB students (must finish degree before programme start)
- Foreign Qualifications: Must be SAQA-accredited
- Experience: Preference for those who have not completed Practical Vocational Training for legal practitioners
- Citizenship: South African citizens only
- Competencies: Ability to act independently, professionally, accountably, and with credibility
- Employment Status: Permanent employees of the DOJ&CD or NPA who meet requirements may apply
The NPA strongly encourages people with disabilities to apply and gives preference to Employment Equity candidates, reflecting the spirit of the country’s Constitution and transformation objectives.
Training Programme Centres
Applicants may apply for only one centre, a strict requirement to ensure fairness. The programme is available at the following locations:
- Vaal (Benoni)
- Johannesburg
- Randburg
- Bloemfontein
- Welkom
- Ntuzuma
- Kimberley
- Klerksdorp
- Mthatha
- Bellville
- Polokwane
- West Rand (Protea)
- Modimolle
- Witbank (Evander)
Important: Applying to more than one centre will result in disqualification.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Get the Latest Z83 Form
- Download from the DPSA website
- Only the new Z83 form (in use since 1 January 2021) will be accepted.
2. Prepare Your CV
- Comprehensive, detailing your legal experience and qualifications.
3. Email Your Application
- Submit your application to the specific email address for your chosen centre.
- Examples:
- Vaal (Benoni): APTVAL26@npa.gov.za
- Johannesburg: APTJHB26@npa.gov.za
- Randburg: APTRAN26@npa.gon.za
- Bloemfontein: APTBFN26@npa.gov.za
- Welkom: APTWEL26@npa.gov.za
- Ntuzuma: APTNTU26@npa.gov.za
- Kimberley: APTKIM26@npa.gov.za
- Klerksdorp: APTKLE26@npa.gov.za
- Mthatha: APTMTH26@npa.gov.za
- Bellville: APTBEL26@npa.gov.za
- Polokwane: APTPLK26@npa.gov.za
- West Rand (Protea): APTWRP26@npa.gov.za
- Modimolle: APTMOD26@npa.gov.za
- Witbank (Evander): APTWIT26@npa.gov.za
4. Include Supporting Documents
- Academic record (final year students), proof of SAQA evaluation (if foreign qualification).
- Shortlisted candidates will later be asked for certified copies.
5. Follow the Rules
- Only apply to one centre.
- All applications must reach the NPA on or before 4 August 2025.
- Late or incomplete applications are disqualified.
- No direct follow-ups, wait for an acknowledgment or further instruction.
Selection Process
Applicants will write an entry examination, which is the first hurdle in the selection process. Only those who excel in the exam will move forward. The NPA uses an Electronic Response Handling System to manage applications and only acknowledges receipt after the closing date.
Security Clearance: All successful candidates must undergo a security clearance process, including fingerprinting and possible checks of social media activity.
Placement: Completing the training does not guarantee a permanent job at the same centre. Placement decisions rest solely with the NPA, and refusal of placement may result in termination of the contract.
The NPA’s Commitment to Transformation
The NPA takes pride in being an equal opportunity employer, promoting transformation and upholding the values enshrined in South Africa’s Constitution. There is a genuine sense of mission in ensuring the prosecutorial ranks reflect the nation’s diversity. Successful candidates will find themselves in a space where transformation is not just a policy, but a lived reality.
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The Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme is more than a job opportunity, it’s a call to serve. For young South Africans with an LLB, this could be the first step in a long and impactful legal career. The energy, passion, and ambition of previous cohorts serve as a testament to the programme’s success.
Every year, hopeful candidates across the country polish their applications, motivated by the dream of wearing the prosecutor’s robe and carrying the weight of justice on their shoulders.