Selection Process

Because of the high level of trust and responsibility that is placed upon Officers, the selection and training to become an Officer in New Zealand's Army is both competitive and demanding. In order to be accepted for Officer Training you will need to display the ability to think clearly, communicate effectively, manage responsibility and achieve tasks through decisive action.

The first step in the process is to fill out the application form on the website. Once you've done this you'll be contacted by your local Recruiting Officer who will arrange the remainder of the process with you.

The process is:

1. Apply Online.
2. Attend an Officer Presentation and Aptitude Test session.
3. Attend an interview with a Recruiting Officer.
4. Attend an Officer Selection Board Presentation.
5. Pass the Officer Selection Board.
6. Receive an Offer of Service for your chosen Officer Scheme
7. Pass Officer Cadet School Initial Officer Training 
8. Pass the Army Reserve Commissioning Course

At the successful completion of the 7 week Commissioning Course you will graduate as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army Reserve of New Zealand's Army.

The Officer Selection Board (OSB)

This is a five day assessment held three times per year at Trentham Military Camp for applicants for both the Regular Force and the Army Reserve.

During the OSB your leadership potential and suitability for a career as an Officer in the New Zealand Army will be assessed. Activities on the OSB include:

• Physical tasks to assess leadership potential.
• Assessments of written and verbal communication skills.
• Interviews with senior Army Officers and Army Psychologists.

Officer Selection Boards are held three times a year in July, September and December. You should applyat least three months out from each selection board in order for your application to be assessed.