In an unprecedented show of public interest, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has received more than one million applications for its 2025/2026 Basic Police Development Learning Programme. For the first time, women are leading the surge in numbers.
The police service confirmed that a staggering 1,049,998 applications were submitted before the midnight deadline on July 18. This record-breaking figure signals a powerful wave of interest from young South Africans who are eager to serve and protect their communities.
What stands out even more is the gender shift. Women submitted 595,049 applications, surpassing the 454,949 applications submitted by men. SAPS has described this as a promising step toward greater diversity and inclusion within the force.
“This positive development speaks volumes about the evolving face of our police service,” said a SAPS spokesperson.
Gauteng Leads in Numbers While Northern Cape Trails
When it comes to provincial distribution, Gauteng generated the highest number of applications at 267,031. KwaZulu-Natal followed closely with 205,802, and Limpopo recorded 115,877. Other notable contributions came from the Eastern Cape with 108,709, Mpumalanga with 100,516, and the Western Cape with 86,496. The Free State submitted 73,214, the North West 66,167, and the Northern Cape came in with 26,186.
Applicants Bring Impressive Qualifications
SAPS also noted the academic readiness of applicants. A total of 334,765 individuals hold a qualification at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 6 or higher. This indicates a well-educated applicant pool with strong potential to meet the demands of modern policing.
“This is a strong indicator that applicants are serious about a career in law enforcement and come equipped with the knowledge to back that ambition,” the spokesperson added.
What Happens Next in the Recruitment Process
With the application phase now closed, SAPS confirmed that no further submissions will be accepted through their website. Candidates who meet the recruitment criteria will be contacted within three months regarding the next phase of the process.
Due to the overwhelming number of submissions, only qualifying applicants will receive communication. Those who do not meet the entry requirements will not be contacted.
A New Generation of Officers on the Horizon
This surge in interest, especially the unprecedented response from female candidates, marks a shift in the national attitude toward policing as a career. It reflects both a desire for stable employment and a commitment to public service.
As SAPS begins reviewing the applications, the country now turns its attention to the next generation of officers preparing to step forward in service of justice and safety.