NPA Internships

The Aspirant Prosecutor Programme is a twelve-month internship that provides law graduates with in-service training. This programme is designed to equip aspiring prosecutors with the practical skills and experience necessary for successful careers within the NPA. Participants gain hands-on experience in various aspects of prosecution, including case preparation, courtroom procedures, and legal research.

Upon completion of the programme, successful candidates become eligible for appointment to entry-level prosecutorial positions within the NPA, effectively enhancing the prosecutorial capacity in lower courts across South Africa. This initiative not only benefits the interns but also helps ensure that the NPA has a pipeline of qualified professionals ready to address the demands of the criminal justice system.

Why Apply for the Aspirant Prosecutor Programme?

  1. Practical Experience: Interns receive direct exposure to the workings of the NPA, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge in real-world scenarios.
  2. Career Advancement: Completing the programme significantly enhances employability, opening doors to entry-level positions within the NPA.
  3. Professional Development: Participants engage in continuous learning, improving their legal skills and understanding of prosecutorial duties.
  4. Contributing to Justice: By joining the NPA, interns play a vital role in upholding justice in South Africa, making a meaningful impact on society.

Venues for the Aspirant Prosecutor Programme 2025 Intake

For the upcoming 2025 intake, the NPA will conduct the Aspirant Prosecutor Programme across various venues. Detailed information about these venues and other relevant documents, including the Aspirant Prosecutor Programme Study Guide and Frequently Asked Questions, can be found on the NPA’s official resources.

How to Apply

To apply for the Aspirant Prosecutor Programme, candidates should stay updated on the NPA’s announcements regarding application dates and requirements. Aspiring prosecutors are encouraged to check the NPA website for the latest information and application procedures.


Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.