What Every Applicant Should Know
Are you planning to join the South African Police Service (SAPS) through the Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP)? Before you begin your journey in law enforcement, your application goes through a strict review and screening process.
In this guide, we break down the SAPS application screening step-by-step so you know exactly what to expect — and how to prepare.
📌 What Is the SAPS Application Screening Process?
The SAPS application review and screening is the first and most important stage of the recruitment process. This is where your eligibility, background, and documents are carefully evaluated before you’re allowed to move on to testing and interviews.
✅ Minimum Entry Requirements
To be considered, you must meet the basic SAPS requirements, including:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 30 years old
- Have a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate
- No criminal record or pending cases
- Be medically and physically fit
- Be willing to undergo training and serve anywhere in South Africa
If you don’t meet these requirements, your application may be immediately rejected.
🗂️ Step 1: Document Verification
SAPS begins by checking all the documents you submitted with your application. These usually include:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Completed application form (Z83 or SAPS-specific)
- Updated CV or résumé
- Proof of residence
📎 Tip: Ensure all documents are certified, up-to-date, and clearly scanned or photocopied.
🔍 Step 2: Background Checks
Your background is carefully screened to ensure you’re fit to serve in law enforcement. This includes:
- Criminal record check
- Previous employment and character reference checks
- Gang affiliation and lifestyle investigation
SAPS looks for honesty, integrity, and a clean reputation.
⚕️ Step 3: Preliminary Health and Fitness Review
While the full medical test happens later, the screening process may include a basic check of:
- Your BMI (Body Mass Index)
- Height and weight
- Any visible signs of poor health
If you are clearly unfit or unhealthy, your application might not proceed to the next stage.
📲 Step 4: Communication of Results
If your application passes the screening stage, you will be contacted by SAPS via:
- SMS
- Phone call
- Or email
You’ll be invited to proceed to the psychometric testing phase. If you don’t get any feedback, it’s usually because your application didn’t meet the requirements or was incomplete.
⏳ Be patient – the review process can take a few weeks or longer depending on the number of applicants.
🛑 Common Reasons for Application Rejection
- Incomplete or missing documents
- Criminal record or dishonesty
- Poor academic performance or lack of Grade 12
- Uncertified or expired documentation
- Failure to meet age or health criteria
🧠 Final Thoughts
Getting through the SAPS application review and screening is the first major hurdle in your police career. Make sure you:
- Double-check your documents
- Stay physically and mentally prepared
- Remain honest on your application
👮♂️ Remember: SAPS is not just hiring people — they are selecting future leaders and protectors of South Africa.
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