How to use the DPSA vacancy circular

Government departments must advertise their vacant posts at least in the Public Service Vacancy Circular, which the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) publishes. The DPSA only publishes the circular: each department writes its own adverts, chooses who to appoint, and answers questions about its posts.

When the circular comes out

The DPSA says the circular is published every week, except during December. Each year it publishes a year programme with the issue date of every circular, and some weeks with a public holiday are skipped. It also tells departments the dates of the last circular before the December break and the first one of the new year. Find the year programme on the vacancy circular page.

How to find the latest circular

1. Open the vacancy circular page on the DPSA website.
2. Choose the newest circular. Each one has a number and a posting date.
3. Download the full circular, or only the section for the department or province you want. Each section is a separate PDF.

How to read a post

Each department’s section starts with its general notes, and often its closing date and where to send applications. Each post then shows:

• The post number and job title. The post number combines the circular’s number and the post’s place in it.
• The reference number. You write it on your Z83.
• Salary and centre: the pay level and where the job is.
• Requirements: the qualifications and experience you must have. Check these first.
• Duties: what the job involves.
• Enquiries: who to contact with questions about this post. Don’t ask the DPSA.
• Applications: how and where to apply.
• Note and closing date: extra rules for this department, and the last day and time for applications.

Senior management posts are listed under “Management echelon” and the rest under “Other posts”.

How to apply

1. Read the requirements and apply only for posts you qualify for.
2. Fill in the current Z83 application form, with the post’s reference number. See how to fill in the Z83, and tick off each step with our Z83 checklist.
3. Add a detailed CV. See how to write a South African CV.
4. Send it the way the advert says. Some departments use an online recruitment website, and others take applications by email, by post or by hand. The DPSA says an advert must say where and how to apply.
5. Make sure your application reaches the department before the closing date and time.

You don’t have to send copies of your qualifications when you apply, unless the advert asks for them. The DPSA’s practice note says applicants send the Z83 and a detailed CV, and departments ask shortlisted candidates for certified copies, which they can bring on or before the interview day.

If you apply for more than one post, follow each advert’s notes: some departments want a separate application for each post.

After the closing date

Each department says in its notes how long to wait before you treat your application as unsuccessful, for example 60 days or six months after the closing date. Read the note in your advert.

If you are shortlisted, prepare with our interview questions guide.

Stay safe

• Applying for a government job is free. The Department of Employment and Labour says no person may charge a work seeker a fee for employment services.
• Don’t pay anyone who promises you a post, an interview or a “faster” appointment.
• Find posts only in the official circular or on the department’s own website, not in forwarded messages.
• Report anyone who asks for money on the National Anti-Corruption Hotline, 0800 701 701.