It has come to our attention as Graduate Connect admins that applying for government job opportunities can be difficult. It is overwhelming to the extent that recent graduates or job seekers end up not applying due to the DPSA circulars or the Z83 form.
It is sad to witness how the youth easily give up on opportunities due to the forms needed by the government when applying.
Below is a complete guide on how to look for the available job opportunities offered by the government and how to fill out the required forms.
Step 1: How To Find Government Vacancies.
There are various places where the government usually posts vacancies that are available across the country.
Do not fall for any scammers, as the government will never ask for any job posts and make sure you check these places for valid government vacancies:
- Websites of departments: There are various departments to look into, such as the department of Education, SARS, the department of Health, the department of Transportation, and etc. Check for the department you wish to work for and apply.
- DPSA Vacancy Circulars: When looking for any vacancy related to the government, this is the place, as it is updated every Friday on the DPSA website: https://www.dpsa.gov.za/newsroom/psvc/circular-06-of-2026/
- Vuk’uzenzele Newspaper: Apparently the government has its own newspaper where vacancies are published. From Entry-level, internships, learnerships, and also tenders are published in the newspaper.
Step 2: How To Fill Out The “New” Z83 Form
To get an opportunity at the government, the Z83 is needed, and using the old version can automatically lead to disqualification.
Download the new Z83 form from the DPSA website or find the hard copy from any government department.
Section A: Advertised Job Post
- Position: Ensure that you mention the correct title as advertised to avoid disappointments, (example: Sports Manager).
- Department: Mention the correct department as the advertised (example: Department of Sports).
- Reference Number: There is always a reference number when the government publishes a job opportunity. Ensure you mention the correct reference, as it is very critical.
Section B to D: Personal Details and Languages
- When filling, ensure that you use a black pen and you are honest with your details, as the government does a background check.
- When filling for language proficiency, regarding writing and speaking of languages, use only Good, Fair, or Poor.
Sections E and F: Qualifications and Experience
- Ensure that you mention all your qualifications and experience, as the government checks for the initial screening.
Section G: Declaration
- This is the last part of the Z83; ensure that you sign and write the date. Without your signature, the application is regarded as invalid, so make sure you sign.
Step 3: Required Documents
With the recent Z83 form, the government only requires the Z83 form and a CV. The other documents, such as qualifications and ID, are only needed after being shortlisted. Also ensure that once shortlisted, you provide the required certified documents.
Ensure the certified documents are not older than 3 months and are clear and readable before submitting.
Mistakes That Lead To The Government Rejecting Your Application:
- The use of old Z83 form: ensure you use the recent Z83 form to avoid rejection.
- Not signing your Z83 lead to rejection as it is deemed invalid.
- Incorrect or not mentioning the reference when filling out the Z83 also leads to disqualification.
- CV not visible also leads to rejection: Make sure your CV is good looking and readable.
- Applying after the closing date: Ensure you apply before the closing date to avoid rejection, as the government is strict.
Getting a job in the government is not easy yet not impossible. Making sure that you apply for the right position and ensure that everything is in order before submitting. Ensure there are no mistakes as the government checks for slight mistake and reject your application.
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