How to Apply for an Internship at the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service

This guide will walk you through the process of applying for an internship at the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service. You will learn how to prepare your application, what documents are needed, and how to submit it correctly. The expected result is a complete and correctly submitted application that meets all requirements. Prerequisites include having completed a relevant National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree from an accredited institution and not having previously participated in a Public Service internship program.

Step 1: Review Internship Opportunities and Requirements

Before you begin, carefully review the available internship opportunities listed in the job posting. For each position, note the specific qualification required, the reference number, and the designated contact person or email address for enquiries. Ensure your qualification matches the requirements for the internship you wish to apply for.

Action: Read through all available internship roles (Civilian Oversight Monitoring and Evaluation, Internal Communication, Office of the Secretary, Corporate Services, Internal Audit) and their specific qualification needs.

Expected Outcome: You will have identified the specific internship role(s) you are eligible for and understand their unique requirements.

Mistakes to Avoid: Applying for a role for which you do not meet the minimum qualification. Not noting the correct reference number for the position.

Step 2: Gather Required Application Documents

You will need to prepare specific documents for your application. Ensure these are ready before you start filling out the application form.

Action: Collect the following:

• A fully completed new Z83 application form.
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) that includes previous positions held (if applicable), employment dates, key performance areas, and main duties/responsibilities.

Expected Outcome: You have all the necessary documents for your application.

Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting an outdated or incomplete Z83 form. Not including all relevant details in your CV. Remember, you do not need to submit copies of qualifications at this stage; only shortlisted candidates will be asked for these.

Step 3: Complete the Z83 Application Form

The Z83 form is a crucial part of your application. Fill it out accurately and completely.

Action: Download and fill out the new Z83 application form. Ensure all sections are completed truthfully and legibly. Pay close attention to personal details, educational background, and any other required information.

Expected Outcome: A fully and accurately completed Z83 application form.

Mistakes to Avoid: Leaving any fields blank. Providing false information. Using an old version of the Z83 form.

Step 4: Prepare Your Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV provides a comprehensive overview of your professional and educational background.

Action: Create or update your CV. Include:

• Your contact information.
• A summary of your education, listing degrees and diplomas obtained.
• Work experience, detailing positions, companies, dates of employment, and key responsibilities for each role.
• Any relevant skills or achievements.

Expected Outcome: A detailed and well-organized CV that highlights your qualifications and experience.

Mistakes to Avoid: Typos or grammatical errors. Not tailoring your CV to showcase relevant experience for the internship. Making your CV too brief or too long (aim for 1-2 pages for recent graduates).

Step 5: Choose Your Application Submission Method

The Civilian Secretariat for Police Service accepts applications through several methods. Choose the one that is most convenient for you.

Action: Select one of the following submission methods:

• Postal: Send your completed Z83 form and CV to Private Bag X922, Pretoria 0001.
• Hand Delivery/Courier: Deliver your application to the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service, 258 Lilian Ngoyi Street, Fedsure Building, 2nd Floor, Pretoria. Submit it at the Reception Desk.
• Email: Send your application to the specific email address provided for the internship you are applying for (e.g., [email protected] for Civilian Oversight Monitoring and Evaluation).

Expected Outcome: You have selected and prepared to use your chosen submission method.

Mistakes to Avoid: Sending your application to the wrong address or email. Not clearly indicating the correct internship title and reference number on your application.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

This is the final step in getting your application to the hiring team.

Action: Submit your completed Z83 form and detailed CV using your chosen method (postal, hand delivery, courier, or email) before the closing date of 30 October 2026. Ensure you clearly state the internship title and reference number in your application.

Expected Outcome: Your application has been successfully submitted.

Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting your application after the closing date. Forgetting to include the internship title and reference number. Not double-checking that all required documents are attached if submitting via email or post.

Step 7: Await Communication

After submitting your application, it’s important to understand the next steps and timelines.

Action: Wait for the department to contact you. Note that correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates. If you have not been contacted within one month after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

Expected Outcome: You are aware of the communication process and timelines following your application submission.

Mistakes to Avoid: Repeatedly contacting the department for updates before the specified timeframe has passed. Assuming your application is unsuccessful without waiting the full month after the closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions