PwC South Africa is accepting applications for its Chartered Accountant (CA) Programme Bursary for the 2027 academic year. The window closes on 31 August 2026, so you need to act now if you want financial help and a possible training contract with one of the country’s biggest professional services firms.
What the PwC CA Programme Bursary 2027 offers
The bursary is aimed at South African students who want to qualify as Chartered Accountants. It supports full‑time study at any SAICA‑accredited university. Financial assistance can include tuition funding, a book allowance, accommodation support, tuition top‑up and a one‑off living allowance. Successful recipients may also be offered a PwC training contract after they graduate.
Who can apply
You are eligible if you meet all of the following:
- South African citizen with a valid ID number.
- Intend to study full‑time at a SAICA‑accredited institution.
- Are a Grade 12 learner, an undergraduate accounting student, or a student planning to complete the CTA or PGDA.
- Have strong academic results (see the detailed thresholds below).
- Demonstrate the personal qualities PwC looks for – teamwork, problem‑solving, leadership and clear communication.
Academic thresholds
- Grade 12 learners: Minimum B‑symbol in Mathematics (Pure Mathematics only) and English, overall average ≥ 75 %.
- First‑ and second‑year undergraduates: Enrolled in a CA‑related degree, passing all courses, overall average ≥ 70 %.
- Third‑ and fourth‑year undergraduates: Enrolled in a CA‑related degree, passing all courses, overall average ≥ 65 % and eligible for Honours entry.
- CTA or PGDA students: Enrolled in a SAICA‑accredited programme that forms part of the CA pathway and meets PwC’s academic standards.
What you gain
- Financial relief for tuition, books and accommodation.
- A one‑off living allowance if you demonstrate significant need.
- Potential employment on PwC’s CA training programme after graduation.
- Exposure to a professional network and real‑world accounting experience.
How to apply
Step‑by‑step online process
- Open the correct PwC application portal (see below).
- Choose “Bursary – CA Programme 2027”.
- Create a candidate profile or log in.
- Enter all personal and academic details accurately.
- Upload certified copies of your ID, Matric certificate (if applicable) and official university transcript (for university students).
- Provide the required financial documents for each parent/guardian (three recent payslips, bank statements or an affidavit if unemployed).
- Review every field for errors.
- Submit before 31 August 2026.
Application portals
Grade 12 learners: Apply here.
University students: Apply here.
Tips to improve your chances
- Make sure you have Pure Mathematics on your Matric record – Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.
- Keep your academic average well above the minimum threshold; higher scores can lead to larger bursary amounts.
- Gather all required documents early and have them certified to avoid last‑minute delays.
- Highlight any leadership, community service or work experience in the personal statement.
- Proofread your application to eliminate spelling or data entry errors.
- Read the terms of the bursary and the potential training contract carefully before accepting an offer.
Next steps
Start by checking your eligibility and collecting the necessary documents. Register on the appropriate portal, fill in the form and submit before the deadline. Remember, many applicants face tight competition, so a complete and error‑free application is your best advantage. Good luck!
