SANDF Salaries & Army Soldier Training 2025
Complete guide to South African National Defence Force salaries, military training programs, benefits, and career progression opportunities.
SANDF Salary Calculator
Selected Rank Details:
Salary Projection
Note: Projections include estimated annual increases and rank progression. Actual salaries may vary based on performance, additional qualifications, and military policies.
SANDF Salary Scales 2025
| Rank | Level | Basic Salary | Total Package | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Private (Pvt) Entry-level soldier position | 2A | R8,925 | R11,890 | Entry level |
Private (Pvt) Private with basic experience | 2B | R9,462 | R12,605 | 6 months |
Lance Corporal (LCpl) Junior non-commissioned officer | 3A | R10,022 | R13,350 | 2-3 years |
Corporal (Cpl) Section leader | 4A | R10,615 | R14,141 | 4-5 years |
Sergeant (Sgt) Senior non-commissioned officer | 5A | R12,864 | R17,131 | 6-8 years |
Staff Sergeant (SSgt) Senior sergeant role | 6A | R15,130 | R20,148 | 10-12 years |
Warrant Officer II (WO2) Junior warrant officer | 7A | R17,904 | R23,846 | 12-15 years |
Warrant Officer I (WO1) Senior warrant officer | 8A | R21,075 | R28,068 | 15-18 years |
Second Lieutenant (2Lt) Junior commissioned officer | 9A | R18,480 | R24,610 | Officer training |
Lieutenant (Lt) Junior officer | 10A | R21,075 | R28,068 | 2-3 years officer |
Captain (Capt) Company commander | 11A | R24,045 | R32,020 | 5-7 years officer |
Major (Maj) Senior company commander | 12A | R27,468 | R36,575 | 8-10 years officer |
Army Training Programs
Basic Military Training (BMT)
Foundation military training for all new recruits
Training Modules:
- Physical fitness and conditioning
- Weapons training and handling
- Military protocol and discipline
- First aid and medical training
- +4 more modules
Requirements:
Specialist Training
Advanced training in specific military specializations
Training Modules:
- Infantry specialist training
- Artillery and armored operations
- Engineering and logistics
- Communications and intelligence
- +4 more modules
Requirements:
Officer Training
Leadership and command training for commissioned officers
Training Modules:
- Military leadership and ethics
- Strategic and tactical planning
- Military law and administration
- Personnel management
- +4 more modules
Requirements:
Reserve Force Training
Part-time military training for civilians
Training Modules:
- Basic military skills
- Homeland security
- Disaster relief operations
- Community engagement
- +4 more modules
Requirements:
SANDF Benefits & Allowances
Medical Benefits
Comprehensive healthcare coverage
- Free medical and dental care
- Family medical coverage
- Specialist medical treatment
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Mental health support
- Preventive healthcare programs
Housing Allowances
Accommodation support for military personnel
- Married quarters allocation
- Housing allowance for off-base living
- Utility allowances
- Relocation assistance
- Temporary accommodation
- Family housing support
Education Benefits
Educational opportunities and support
- Further education funding
- Skills development programs
- Professional qualification support
- Family education assistance
- Adult basic education
- Technical training opportunities
Leave Privileges
Annual and special leave entitlements
- 36 days annual leave
- Sick leave provisions
- Maternity/paternity leave
- Study leave for education
- Compassionate leave
- Long service leave
Pension Benefits
Retirement and pension provisions
- Military pension fund
- Early retirement options
- Disability pension
- Survivor benefits
- Provident fund contributions
- Medical aid after retirement
Other Benefits
Additional perks and allowances
- Travel allowances
- Meal allowances
- Uniform and equipment provision
- Sports and recreation facilities
- Canteen facilities
- Transport allowances
Military Career Progression
Enlisted Personnel
Non-commissioned ranks progression
Private
0-2Basic skills development
Lance Corporal
2-4Leadership training
Corporal
4-6Section leadership
Sergeant
6-10Training and administration
Staff Sergeant
10-15Senior leadership
Warrant Officer
15+Specialist expertise
Commissioned Officers
Officer ranks progression
Second Lieutenant
0-2Platoon command
Lieutenant
2-4Staff appointments
Captain
4-8Company command
Major
8-12Battalion staff
Lieutenant Colonel
12-16Battalion command
Colonel
16+Senior staff positions
How to Apply for SANDF
Basic Requirements
- South African citizenship
- Age 18-26 years (enlisted) or 18-22 (officers)
- Grade 12 certificate or equivalent
- Physical and medical fitness
- Clean criminal record
- Valid identity document
Medical Requirements
- Full medical examination
- Vision and hearing tests
- Psychological evaluation
- Dental examination
- Fitness assessment
- Drug and alcohol screening
Documentation Required
- Certified ID copy
- Matric certificate
- Medical certificate
- Police clearance certificate
- Proof of residence
- Next of kin details
Application Process
Online Application
Complete the online application form on the SANDF recruitment website with personal details, educational background, and career preferences.
Aptitude Testing
Attend psychometric testing, including cognitive ability tests, personality assessments, and career aptitude evaluations.
Medical & Fitness Assessment
Complete comprehensive medical examination and physical fitness testing to ensure you meet military health and fitness standards.
Security Clearance
Background checks and security clearance verification process, including criminal record checks and reference verification.
Final Selection & Enlistment
Final selection board review, contract signing, and assignment to basic military training program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do SANDF soldiers earn during training?
During Basic Military Training (BMT), recruits earn R8,925 per month. This includes accommodation, meals, medical care, and training equipment. Specialist training may have higher allowances depending on the program.
What is the difference between basic salary and total package?
Basic salary is the core monthly payment, while the total package includes additional benefits like housing allowances, medical aid contributions, pension contributions, and other allowances that bring the total value higher.
How long is the minimum service commitment?
Most SANDF contracts require a minimum service period of 2 years for enlisted personnel and 3-5 years for officers, depending on the training received and specialization. Some specialized programs may have longer commitments.
Can I join SANDF with a criminal record?
SANDF requires a clean criminal record for most positions. Minor offenses may be considered on a case-by-case basis, but serious criminal convictions typically disqualify applicants from military service.
Are there opportunities for further education in SANDF?
Yes, SANDF offers extensive education and skills development opportunities, including funding for further studies, professional qualifications, technical training, and leadership development programs throughout your military career.
What happens to my family when I join SANDF?
SANDF provides family support including medical coverage for dependents, housing allowances or married quarters, educational assistance for children, and various family welfare programs to support military families.
Ready to Serve Your Country?
Join the South African National Defence Force and build a rewarding military career