Time is running out – the National Prosecuting Authority’s Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme starts on 1 March 2027 and the application deadline is the same day. If you want a foot‑in‑the‑door legal career, you need to act now.
What the opportunity is
The NPA is offering a 12‑month Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme. It is run in NPA offices around South Africa. You will be assessed continuously and, if you meet the standards, you could be appointed as a Prosecutor.
Who can apply
You may apply if you meet all of the following:
- Have an LLB degree, or be in your final year and will graduate before 1 March 2027.
- Are South African citizens.
- Are currently unemployed and have no legal work experience.
- Have not taken any Practical Vocational Training for legal practitioners.
- Can work independently, professionally and with credibility.
Permanent employees of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and of the NPA who meet these criteria may also apply.
What you gain
- Practical prosecutorial skills – real case work under supervision.
- A chance to qualify for full‑time appointment as a Prosecutor.
- One‑year contract with clear terms of service.
- Exposure to different courts and offices across the country.
How to apply – step by step
- Download the Z83 application form from the NPA website.
- Update your CV to highlight your LLB education and any relevant activities.
- Write the reference number for the centre you want to train at (see list below).
- Compose an email that includes:
- The completed Z83 form attached.
- Your updated CV.
- The reference number, the position, and the centre you are applying for.
- Send the email to the address that matches your chosen centre (see list below). Use the exact reference number in the subject line.
- If you are shortlisted, be ready to provide certified copies of your ID, qualifications and recent academic transcripts.
Available locations, reference numbers and email addresses
- Johannesburg – Ref APTJHB27 – APTJHB27@npa.gov.za
- Randburg – Ref APTRAN27 – APTRAN27@npa.gov.za
- Protea – Ref APTPRO27 – APTPRO27@npa.gov.za
- Benoni (Vaal Rand Cluster) – Ref APTBEN27 – APTBEN27@npa.gov.za
- Evander (Witbank Cluster) – Ref APTEVA27 – APTEVA27@npa.gov.za
- Madadeni (Ladysmith Cluster) – Ref APTMAD27 – APTMAD27@npa.gov.za
- Welkom – Ref APTWEL27 – APTWEL27@npa.gov.za
- Bloemfontein – Ref APTBFN27 – APTBFN27@npa.gov.za
- Kimberley – Ref APTKIM27 – APTKIM27@npa.gov.za
- Bellville – Ref APTBELL27 – APTBELL27@npa.gov.za
- George – Ref APTGEO27 – APTGEO27@npa.gov.za
- Klerksdorp – Ref APTKLE27 – APTKLE27@npa.gov.za
- Mahwelereng (Modimolle Cluster) – Ref APTMOD27 – APTMOD27@npa.gov.za
- Polokwane – Ref APTPLK27 – APTPLK27@npa.gov.za
- Makhado (Thohoyandou Cluster) – Ref APTMAK27 – APTMAK27@npa.gov.za
- Port Elizabeth – Ref APTPLZ27 – APTPLZ27@npa.gov.za
- Mthatha – Ref APTMTH27 – APTMTH27@npa.gov.za
Tips to improve your chances
- Study the entry‑examination guide on the NPA website – the exam is a mandatory part of selection.
- Double‑check that you have the correct reference number and email address before sending.
- Make sure your CV is clear, free of errors and highlights any moot court or volunteer work.
- Be ready to start on 1 March 2027; the NPA will not accept delayed start dates.
- Remember that completing the training does not guarantee placement at the same centre – you may be assigned anywhere in the country.
- Only shortlisted candidates need to provide certified copies of ID and qualifications, so keep those documents handy.
Next steps
Apply before 1 March 2027 if you want to begin a career in prosecution. Prepare your documents, choose a centre, and send your application today. Good luck – the NPA could be your next professional home.
