NS Enlistment Dates 2027: Weeks Left and How to Train

When are the NS enlistment dates for 2027?

Between early January and early October 2027. CMPB's enlistment dates page, last updated 26 Oct 2026 and checked on 7 Nov 2026, lists 2027 intakes in seven windows. Each PES group has its own days inside each window. CMPB adds that "the above dates are subject to change", so treat any list, this one included, as a guide until your notice arrives.

We summarise the windows here rather than copy the table, because the table changes and your own date is what counts. Use the summary to see roughly when you go and how long you have. Use CMPB's page and your letter for the exact day.

Which months have an intake for your PES?

Most months on the list have an intake for every PES group, but not all. PES A/B with PTP enlists only in four windows, and the May window has no direct PES A/B intake. The table shows which groups CMPB lists in each window.

CMPB's page also shows a few late 2026 dates, the last of them in mid November 2026. If you are not sure of your PES, it comes from your pre-enlistment medical screening, and our PTP vs BMT guide explains what each grade means for basic training.

When will you know your exact enlistment date?

About two months before you enlist, by post. CMPB's dates page says you will be notified of your enlistment date about two months before your scheduled enlistment, and that enlistment is scheduled once you have completed the pre-enlistment process. Until the letter arrives you know your window, not your day.

Do not wait for the letter to start training. Every week before it is a week more to build toward the test and BMT.

How many weeks do you have until enlistment?

From about 8 weeks for a January intake to about 46 weeks for the late September to October window. The table counts whole weeks from 7 Nov 2026 to the first day CMPB lists in each window. If your letter gives a later day, add the difference.

What changes for October 2027 enlistees?

The medical grading changes. MINDEF's 13 April 2026 release says the first cohort under the refreshed medical classification system is SAF pre-enlistees enlisting in October 2027, graded under it from end June 2026. Existing NSFs and NSmen keep their PES status.

Either way, the 61-point pre-enlistee IPPT target is the same on both CMPB pages. CMPB's 2027 dates page still labels its October intakes by PES. If you enlist in October 2027, your notice tells you which programme you are in, so read it rather than the label.

Do you need to take the pre-enlistee IPPT?

Only if you are PES A or B1 and want to skip PTP. CMPB's pre-enlistee IPPT page says PES B, C and E pre-enlistees are not required to take it. For PES A or B1, a pass of 61 points or more cuts 8 weeks off full-time NS.

CMPB says a BMI above 27.0 means a 19-week basic training. Work out where you stand with the IPPT calculator. It shows your points per station and how far you are from 61.

When is the last day to pass before a PTP intake?

The last Wednesday at least 14 days before you enlist. That is CMPB's rule, and its own example is an enlistment on 6 Oct 2025 with a pass needed by 17 Sep 2025. Applied to the 2027 PTP windows, the table gives the last pass date for the first day of each window. A later day in the window can move it later by a week.

Because tests run only on Wednesdays and need a booking, plan at least two attempts before that last date. If the first is short, you still have a week or two to try again.

How should you train with the weeks you have?

Size the plan to the time, and test early. Take a practice IPPT this week so you know which station costs you the most points. Then pick the plan that matches your weeks.

1. 01Under 8 weeksFocus on the stations you are closest to scoring on. Practise the test itself, keep form strict, and run the 2.4km at a steady pace you can hold. IPPT pass in 8 weeks sets out a short block.
2. 028 to 16 weeksEnough for a full pass block with a deload before the test. Start your run work from week one. The 2.4km run guide covers pacing and the sessions that improve it.
3. 0316 to 26 weeksTime to aim past a pass. Build an aerobic base for the first half, then sharpen for the test. If you want more than 61 points, how to get IPPT Gold is the next step up.
4. 0426 weeks or moreTrain for BMT, not just the test. Add loaded walks, general strength and steady runs, and keep the IPPT stations ticking over. Pre-enlistment fitness lays out a six-month plan.

Whatever the length, add running volume gradually so a niggle does not cost you the test. Rest days count as part of the plan. A typical week for the 8 to 16 week plan looks like the table below.

Is it worth trying to skip PTP?

For most PES A or B1 pre-enlistees, yes. A pass means a 9-week BMT instead of 17 weeks, per CMPB, and CMPB says it reduces full-time NS by 8 weeks. The test can be retaken as often as you like before the deadline.

If you are close to 61 points already, test early and often before the deadline. Our PTP vs BMT guide covers both routes in detail.

Can a personal trainer help you prepare for enlistment?

Yes, if you want structure and someone to check your form. A coach can test you, set a plan sized to your weeks, and fix push-up and sit-up technique so reps are not lost on test day.

1. 01WhereCoaches come to your home, condo gym, a park or a gym that allows outside trainers.
2. 02First sessionA paid trial at 10% off the coach's rate.
3. 03After thatPacks from 5 sessions, paid by PayNow.
4. 04What to tell usYour intake window, your PES if you know it, and a recent practice score.