NYS Recruitment 2026: Requirements and Dates
National Youth Service (NYS) · Last checked 12 November 2026
2026 intake closed (advertised 3 March 2026)
The 2026 adverts were published on 3 March 2026 and shortlists followed in June 2026.
NYS advertised two 2026 intakes on 3 March 2026: privates and cadets (paid posts), and volunteer servicemen and women recruited at sub-county centres. The shortlist for special officer cadets and privates was published in June 2026.
Requirements at the 2026 intake (privates and cadets)
From the official NYS advert of 3 March 2026.
- Kenyan citizen with a valid national ID and a KRA PIN certificate.
- Aged 18 to 28 years.
- Cadets: a bachelor’s degree and KCSE C+ or above.
- Diploma posts: KCSE C- or above.
- Privates: KCSE D+ or above, an NYS discharge certificate, and a National Trade Test, craft or diploma certificate in the advertised courses.
- Successful candidates undergo NYS paramilitary training at the NYS Training College.
How to apply
- Privates and cadets applied using the Application for Employment Form PSC.2 (Revised 2016) from the Public Service Commission website, as set out in the advert.
- Volunteer servicemen and women reported to the recruiting centre in their sub-county, as listed in the advert.
Recruitment is free
NYS recruitment is free. Never pay for a recruitment slot.
Common questions
Is NYS recruitment 2026 still open?
No. The 2026 adverts were published in March 2026 and shortlisting followed in June. Watch the NYS jobs page for the next intake.
What do I need to join NYS as a private?
At the 2026 intake: KCSE D+ or above, an NYS discharge certificate, a trade test, craft or diploma certificate in an advertised course, a national ID and KRA PIN, and age 18 to 28.