Botswana Defence Force Shortlisted Candidates 2025/2026: Full List, Next Steps, Screening Dates & Requirements
See the full Botswana Defence Force Shortlisted Candidates 2025/2026 list. Check names, screening dates, documents, venues, salary details, and next steps here.
Are you among the thousands who applied for the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) recruitment exercise? The long-awaited Botswana Defence Force Shortlisted Candidates 2025/2026 list has now been released, and applicants can finally check their status.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the shortlist, including:
- How to check the shortlisted names
- Screening dates and locations
- Requirements and documents needed
- Available positions and salary structure
- Frequently asked questions
- Updates for international applicants
- Important tips to avoid disqualification
Whether you applied as a soldier, cadet officer, specialist, nurse, or technical recruit, this post breaks down the next steps in a clear and easy-to-read format.
Is the BDF Shortlisted Candidates List Out for 2025/2026?
Yes. The Botswana Defence Force has officially released the first batch of shortlisted candidates for the 2025/2026 recruitment cycle. Successful applicants were selected based on merit, qualifications, physical fitness, and compliance with the online and offline application procedures.
If your name appears on the shortlist, congratulations — but your journey is not over yet. You must now proceed to the screening and documentation stage.
How to Check Botswana Defence Force Shortlisted Candidates 2025/2026
There are several approved methods to view the shortlist. Follow any of the steps below:
Method 1: Through the Official BDF Portal
- Visit the official BDF website:
https://online.bdf.org.bw/ - Go to the Recruitment or News section
- Click on “Shortlisted Candidates 2025/2026”
- Download the PDF file or view it online
- Use your Name or Application Number to search
Method 2: Botswana Daily Newspapers
The shortlisted names are also published in:
- Daily News Botswana
- The Voice Newspaper
- Mmegi
- Sunday Standard
- Botswana Guardian
Method 3: SMS or Email Notification
Some applicants will receive:
- Email alerts with screening instructions
- SMS notifications with center details and dates
Method 4: Local Councils and BDF Headquarters
For rural applicants without internet access, names are posted on notice boards at:
- BDF Headquarters, Gaborone
- Regional BDF Commands
- District Administration Offices
- Council Secretariat Offices
Screening Date, Venue, and Time
All shortlisted candidates must appear in person for physical and credential screening.
Venue:
BDF Headquarters and designated regional training centers
Screening Starts:
Applicants will be notified.
Reporting Time:
7:00 AM on the dot
Failure to attend the screening automatically leads to disqualification. No excuses will be accepted unless officially approved.
Documents Required for BDF Screening
You must appear with the following documents in both original and photocopy:
| Required Document | Description |
| National ID (Omang) | Must be valid and government-issued |
| Birth Certificate | Original plus two photocopies |
| Academic Certificates | BGCSE, Diploma, Degree as applicable |
| Fitness Certificate | From an approved government hospital |
| Application Slip | Printed evidence of earlier submission |
| Passport (for foreigners) | For regional applicants from SADC |
| 4 Passport Photographs | Recent and identical |
Ensure all documents are neatly arranged in a brown envelope labeled with your full name, phone number, and application number.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Shortlisted candidates will undergo medical and physical screening, including:
- Running (2.4 km for men, 1.6 km for women)
- Push-ups and sit-ups
- Eye and hearing tests
- BMI and general health checks
- Drug and substance test
- Chest and posture assessment
If you have any hidden medical condition, this is the stage it will be detected.
Botswana Defence Force Salary Structure (2025/2026 Estimates)
While BDF salaries vary by rank, you can expect the following baseline earnings:
| Rank | Monthly Salary (Estimated) |
| Private (Entry Level) | P7,000 – P9,000 |
| Lance Corporal | P9,500 – P11,000 |
| Corporal | P11,500 – P13,500 |
| Sergeant | P14,000 – P17,000 |
| Staff Sergeant | P18,000 – P21,000 |
| Warrant Officer | P22,000 – P28,000 |
| Second Lieutenant | P29,000 – P34,000 |
| Captain | P36,000 – P45,000 |
| Major | P46,000 – P55,000 |
| Colonel | P60,000+ |
Please note that accommodation, medical care, pension, and military allowances are provided.
What to Do if Your Name Is Not on the List
If you checked the shortlist and your name isn’t there, here’s what you can do:
- Stay updated — second and third batch lists may still be released
- Avoid re-applying until the next recruitment window
- Make sure your documents and fitness level are improved
- Keep checking the BDF website and newspapers
See Also:
- Zambian Army Recruitment
- Kenya Ministry of Road and Transport Recruitment
- Botswana Defence Force Recruitment
Stay informed, stay prepared, and follow all official guidelines. Screening is strict, but candidates who comply with instructions and present themselves professionally will have a greater chance of advancing to training school.
For more updates, bookmark this page and check regularly for new batches, screening venue changes, and final selection lists.
