NPA opens 2026 Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme for South Africans — How to Apply

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has officially launched the 2026 Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme, offering South African LLB graduates a prestigious 12-month pathway into public prosecution. With 14 training centres nationwide, applicants can now specify their preferred location, but it’s crucial to include the correct reference number and centre-specific email when applying.

What the Programme Offers Graduates

The Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme (APTP) equips participants with practical courtroom skills and legal knowledge. Successful candidates will:

• Work alongside experienced prosecutors in Magistrate’s Courts, gaining hands-on experience in criminal law
• Undergo formal assessments and on-the-job evaluations for competency
• Receive a salary of R252 855 to R292 596 per annum (LP‑1 to LP‑2) over a 12‑month contract

Programmes begin 1 March 2026, with up to 100 aspirants appointed across the country. The NPA emphasizes ethical leadership, accountability, and legal integrity throughout the programme.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be:

1. South African citizens holding an LLB (or equivalent) or final-year LLB students due to graduate before March 2026
2. Unemployed youth or permanent DOJ&CD/NPA employees meeting programme requirements
3. Committed to professional conduct, independence, and public service
4. Able to relocate to their chosen centre

The NPA encourages applications from previously disadvantaged groups, in line with transformation and equity goals.

Choose Your Training Centre Carefully

Applicants must state one preferred centre on the New Z83 form, quoting its reference number, and submit to that centre’s email. Multiple centre applications will be disqualified.

Centre (Location) Ref No. Email

• Vaal (Benoni), Ref No. APTVAL26, Email- [email protected]
• Johannesburg, Ref No. APTJHB26, Email [email protected]
• Randburg, Ref No. APTRAN26, Email – [email protected]
• Bloemfontein, Ref No. APTBFN26, Email – [email protected]
• Welkom, Ref No. APTWEL26, Email – [email protected]
• Ntuzuma, Ref No. APTNTU26, Email – [email protected]
• Kimberley, Ref No. APTKIM26, Email – [email protected]
• Klerksdorp, Ref No. APTKLE26, Email – [email protected]
• Mthatha, Ref No. APTMTH26, Email – [email protected]
• Bellville, Ref No. APTBEL26, Email – [email protected]
• Polokwane, Ref No. APTPLK26, Email – [email protected]
• West Rand (Protea), Ref No. APTWRP26, Email –  [email protected]
• Modimolle, Ref No. APTMOD26, Email-  [email protected]
• Witbank (Evander), Ref No. APTWIT26, Email- [email protected]

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Application Process & Deadline

Submit your complete Z83 form, CV, ID copy, LLB transcript, matric certificate, and motivation letter to your chosen centre’s email before the 4 August 2025 closing date.

Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email to register for the entry examination. Only those successful in the test will proceed through further screening and interviews.

How to Apply

1. Select one training centre and note its reference number
2. Fill out the new Z83 form (new version download HERE), attach essential documents
3. Email the application to the correct centre email address
4. Prepare for the entry exam using the NPA study guide

Early applications ensure timely consideration. For queries, contact NPA offices — Pfanani Malova (012 845 6953), Gija Maswanganyi (012 845 6944), or Sharon Ntseo (012 845 6664).

Why This Programme Is a Game-Changer

High crime rates and trial backlogs have put pressure on the NPA. The APTP aims to address this by preparing competent and ethical prosecutors to strengthen South Africa’s justice system. Past participants have been permanently appointed and progressed within the NPA or broader legal sector.

The programme bridges the theory-practice gap, offering critical courtroom confidence that LLB degrees alone don’t provide.

The NPA Aspirant Prosecutor Training Programme 2026 is now open, offering an unparalleled launchpad into public prosecution. If you’re a law graduate driven by justice and eager to serve, this opportunity could be your gateway to a legal career with impact.