According to a communique issued by the RDF, the registration period will run from June 21 to July 20, 2025, followed by selection exams between July 21 and August 5, 2025. The announcement encourages eligible Rwandans to seize this opportunity to serve their country, with examinations to be held across all provinces.

The nationwide call is part of RDF’s continued investment in building a disciplined and capable force, while offering young Rwandans a path to national service and personal development.

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for recruitment as a junior officer, applicants must be Rwandan citizens in good health, aged between 18 and 25 years, and must have completed at least Senior 3 (S3).

In addition, candidates must have no criminal record, must not have been dismissed from public service, and are expected to demonstrate good morals and conduct. Importantly, they must also be willing to serve in the Rwanda Defence Force and successfully pass the entrance examinations.

Those applying to join the Reserve Force must meet similar requirements. However, age limits vary based on educational background.

Applicants who completed secondary school must be between 18 and 25 years old. Those with a university degree (A0) or vocational training (IPRC) may apply up to the age of 26, while individuals with specialised qualifications in fields such as Medicine, Engineering, or Law may apply until the age of 27.

Required documents include a national ID, A-level certificate, a certificate of good conduct from local authorities, and a criminal record clearance.

Selection exam schedule

Examinations will be held from July 21 to August 5, 2025, starting at 8:00 AM daily.

Each district has designated venues and dates to accommodate all applicants. In Kigali City, exams will take place at IPRC Kicukiro Stadium, ULK Stadium, and Kigali Pelé Stadium. Similar arrangements have been made in all four provinces, including venues like Gicumbi Stadium, Nyamagabe Stadium, Rusizi Stadium, and others.

A complete schedule of dates and venues by district has been published in the RDF communique and is available on the Ministry of Defence website: www.mod.gov.rw.

The nationwide call is part of RDF’s continued investment in building a disciplined and capable force, while offering young Rwandans a path to national service and personal development.