Career guide

Diplomat

Enterprising

Represents South Africa abroad - negotiating, reporting, consular work and building relationships. Entry is by competitive national recruitment, not by application to an employer.

School subjects

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is accepted; strong Languages and History help.

How you qualify

A degree in International Relations, Political Science, Law, Economics or Languages (NQF 7), often with Honours. Entry is normally through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation's competitive recruitment and its diplomatic training programme, which includes security clearance and a commitment to posting abroad. There is no direct route straight from a degree. Confirm current intake requirements with your counsellor.

Where to study

Public universities; Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) as employer

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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