Canadian Armed Forces Recruitment Process Modernization update
News release
February 19, 2025 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is improving its recruitment process to meet the security threats of the future and to achieve the goals of our current defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free. Bold steps are being taken to address common irritants, reduce delays, make military service more accessible, and better align processes to the expectations of a new generation of potential applicants.
As of December 31, 2024, the CAF implemented a probationary period so that applicants can begin training while waiting for their security clearance and other administrative work. During this time, if a recruit does not meet the necessary security clearance, personnel assessment, or medical or other requirements, they will be released from the CAF. This speeds up the enrolment process while maintaining high standards.
In October 2024, the CAF replaced the Canadian Forces Aptitude Test, a multiple-choice written test, with the Scored Employment Application Form (SEAF). The SEAF evaluates candidates based on education, experience, leadership, and other life achievements, providing a broader assessment and verifying that recruits embody the CAF’s ethos and values. The implementation of the SEAF assessment tool provides a faster path to enrolment. The CAF is also digitizing many application processes and modernizing its medical enrolment standard so that all individuals who are assessed to be medically fit may attempt basic training.
In its commitment to excellence, the CAF is not lowering its standards. The modernized recruitment process will bring in the best talent and provide a better applicant experience. These improvements, along with others to come, will help build back the CAF, so that it can continue to respond when called upon to serve Canada’s interests, both at home and abroad.
Quotes
“We have and continue to modernize our recruitment and training processes to provide potential recruits with a world class experience with the Canadian Armed Forces from the onset. Through our efforts, we will continue to attract talented Canadians for years to come, providing Canada with a strong, and ready military to meet current and future security needs.”
General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff
“Our number one priority is growing the Canadian Armed Forces to the desired end strength outlined by Government of Canada policy. By focusing on recruitment and retention, we will maintain our status as an employer of choice and enhance operational effectiveness.”
Lieutenant-General Lise Bourgon, Chief of Military Personnel and Commander of Military Personnel Command
Quick facts
-
Our North, Strong and Free commits to modernizing the CAF recruitment process and rebuilding the military to an authorized strength of 71,500 Regular Force and 30,000 Reserve Force members prior to March 31, 2032.
-
The CAF is committed to achieving its goal of enrolling 6,496 Regular Force members for the fiscal year 2024 – 2025.
-
The new probationary period allows applicants to obtain a reliability security status upon enrolment and begin their Basic Military Qualification or Basic Military Officer Qualification training while their security clearance and other administration requirements are processed, allowing recruits to get into training faster.
-
The CAF provides numerous opportunities and experiences to its members with more than 100 career options available, and the potential pathway to greater education.
Contacts
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-904-3333
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
Page details
- Date modified: