Time is running out to secure funding for your chartered accountancy studies, and the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants is offering a powerful opportunity that could change your future.
What the Thuthuka Bursary Offers
The Thuthuka Bursary supports students who want to become Chartered Accountants. It covers tuition, books, meals, residence fees and accommodation for the 2027 academic year. Recipients also gain academic support, mentorship and life‑skills training.
Who Can Apply – Eligibility Requirements
- South African citizen, Black African or Coloured
- From a disadvantaged background
- In Matric or finished Matric within the last two years
- At least 60 % (Level 5) in Mathematics in Grade 11 – Mathematics Literacy or Technical Mathematics do not qualify
- Family income ≤ R350 000 per year
- Planning to study a listed SAICA‑accredited accounting qualification in 2027
- Must have applied or be applying to one of the approved universities (see list below)
- Must sit the National Benchmark Tests before 31 August 2026
Participating Universities and Courses
- Nelson Mandela University – BCom Accounting (40103)
- University of the Free State, Bloemfontein – Bachelor of Accounting (BC636060) or PGCA (BC656060)
- University of Johannesburg – Bachelor of Accounting (BCA012)
- Stellenbosch University – BCom Accounting / B Rek (3091001)
- University of KwaZulu‑Natal, Westville – BCom Accounting (BCOM‑C)
- University of Pretoria – Accounting Sciences (07130044)
- University of Cape Town – BCom (CB024) or PGDA (CG010ACC01)
- North‑West University, Potchefstroom – BCom CA (5DAH01‑E302)
- University of the Witwatersrand – BAcc Science (CB008)
- Rhodes University – BCom Accounting
- University of Fort Hare – BCom Accounting (60001)
- University of the Western Cape – Course 1021 or 1753
- University of Limpopo – CTA only, PGDA (Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy)
What You Gain – Benefits
- Full coverage of tuition, books, meals, residence and accommodation fees
- Enrichment programmes: extra tutorials, study‑skills workshops and academic support
- Social and emotional counselling, mentorship from chartered accountants and business leaders
- Work‑readiness and life‑skills training
- Access to a dedicated programme manager
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step
- Visit the official application portal: SAICA Thuthuka Bursary 2027
- Complete the online application form before 31 August 2026.
- Upload clear, certified copies of all required documents (see list below).
- Download, fill in and sign the Thuthuka Consent Form (PDF) and attach it to your application.
- Submit the form and wait for confirmation.
Required Documents
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified Grade 11 results (and Matric results if finished)
- Proof of provisional university acceptance or current registration
- Full academic record if already studying
- Certified IDs of parents/guardians
- Proof of parents/guardians’ income (tax statements, payslips, or affidavit if unemployed)
- Latest payslips if you are employed
- Certified IDs or birth certificates of other dependents in your household
- Signed Thuthuka Consent Form
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Double‑check that every document is clear and certified – blurry files cause disqualification.
- Take the National Benchmark Test early and upload the result before the deadline.
- Write a brief personal statement that explains why you want to become a Chartered Accountant and how the bursary will help.
- Ask a teacher or mentor to review your application for spelling and completeness.
- Keep a copy of everything you submit in case the fund requests additional information.
Final Thoughts
The Thuthuka Bursary can lift the financial barriers that stop many talented students from entering chartered accountancy. If you meet the academic and income criteria, apply before 31 August 2026 and ensure every required document is attached. Taking this step now could put you on the path to a rewarding accounting career.
