If you are a young South African citizen looking for an exciting opportunity to serve your country while receiving military training and gaining valuable healthcare and administrative skills, then the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) Military Skills Development System (MSDS) is for you.
The South African Military Health Service is offering a two-year training program for the 2026 intake, where successful candidates will receive military and functional training and get an opportunity to apply their skills in real-life scenarios.
This article provides all the necessary details regarding eligibility, available career options, application requirements, and submission details to help you successfully apply for the South African Military Health Service MSDS program.
What is the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) MSDS Program?
The South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) is a branch of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) that focuses on providing medical support to military personnel and the public. Through its Military Skills Development System (MSDS), SAMHS recruits young individuals and provides them with military, healthcare, and logistical training.
This two-year program is designed to:
- Provide basic military training and functional training in the first year.
- Deploy candidates in various healthcare and administrative sectors in the second year.
- Offer opportunities for further studies and specialization in healthcare fields.
- Provide possible long-term employment within the South African Military Health Service.
General Requirements for Applicants
To qualify for the 2026 intake of the South African Military Health Service MSDS, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- South African citizenship (No dual citizenship).
- Age requirements:
- 18 to 22 years (for applicants with Grade 12).
- 18 to 26 years (for applicants with a three-year tertiary qualification).
- Education:
- Must have an Admission Point Score (APS) of 24 or above, excluding Life Orientation.
- Medical fitness:
- Must meet the medical requirements for military service.
- Criminal record:
- Must have no criminal record or pending cases.
- Appearance:
- No visible tattoos on legs, lower arms, neck, or face.
Application Closing Date: 28 March 2025
If you have not been contacted by 31 December 2025, consider your application unsuccessful.
Career Fields Available in the South African Military Health Service
The South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) MSDS provides various career options in Support Careers, Medical Support Operations, and Study Opportunities.
1. Support Careers (Minimum Requirement: Grade 12)
Candidates with a Grade 12 qualification can apply for these roles:
- Patient Administration
- Logistics
- Human Resources
- Physical Training, Sport, and Recreation (PTSR)
Medical Support Operations (Specialized Fields)
These career fields require specific Grade 12 subjects and APS scores:
| Field | Required Subjects & APS Score |
|---|---|
| Medical Support Operations | English (Level 4), 2nd Language (Level 4), Mathematics/Maths Literacy (Level 3), Life Science (Level 3), Physical Science/Geography (Level 3) |
| Health Informatics | English (Level 5), Mathematics (Level 4, No Maths Lit), Physical Science (Level 4), plus a 3-year Diploma/Degree in ICT |
| Pest Control Operator | APS of 38+, English (Level 4), 2nd Language (Level 4), Mathematics (Level 5, No Maths Lit), Physical Science (Level 4), Life Science (Level 5) |
| Chemical Biological Radiation Defence (CBRD) | English (Level 4), Mathematics (Level 4, No Maths Lit), Physical Science (Level 4), Life Science (Level 4), plus a 3-year Diploma or Degree |
| Musician | Grade 12 plus a Music Practical Grade 6 Certificate from a recognized institution (e.g., UNISA, Trinity, Royal Schools) |
Study Opportunities in the South African Military Health Service
For those looking to study while serving in the South African Military Health Service, SAMHS provides opportunities in healthcare-related fields.
| Course | Requirements |
|---|---|
| MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery) | APS 38+, English (Level 6), Mathematics (Level 6, No Maths Lit), Physical Science (Level 6), Life Science (Level 6), and another subject (Level 5 & Level 4) |
| Dental Assistant | English (Level 3), Mathematics (Level 2, No Maths Lit), Life Science (Level 2) OR a Dental Assistance Certificate + HPCSA Registration |
| Pharmacy Assistant | English (Level 4), Mathematics (Level 4, No Maths Lit), Life Science (Level 4) |
| Nursing Diploma | English (Level 4), 2nd Language (Level 4), Life Science (Level 4), Mathematics/Math Literacy (Level 4), plus two other subjects (Level 3) |
| Auxiliary Nursing | English (Level 4), Additional Language (Level 3), Life Science (Level 3), Mathematics (Level 2) or Math Literacy (Level 3), plus two other subjects (Level 3) |
| Emergency Care Assistant | English (Level 5), Mathematics (Level 3, No Maths Lit), Physical Science (Level 4), Life Science (Level 3), plus two other subjects (Level 3) |
Application Process for the South African Military Health Service MSDS
Required Documents
To apply for the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) MSDS 2026 intake, submit the following documents:
- Completed MSDS Application Form (2026 Intake)
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate (Only 2024 results statements will be accepted)
- Certified copies of tertiary qualifications (if applicable)
- Proof of residence or letter from the Village Chief
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Applicants will undergo:
- Drug testing
- Psychometric and medical evaluation
- Criminal record verification
- Qualification verification
How to Submit Your Application
You can submit your application via:
1. Hand Delivery:
Submit your application to the nearest recruitment center.
2. Post:
Send your documents to:
SAMHS Recruitment Office – Department of Defence
Private Bag X102, Centurion, Pretoria, 0046
For more information, visit: www.mhs.mil.za
Final Thoughts
The South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) MSDS program is an incredible opportunity for young South Africans to gain military training, develop professional skills, and explore careers in the medical field. If you meet the eligibility requirements, ensure you submit your application before 28 March 2025.
