SAIPA 2026 Scholarship – A Big Chance for Future Accounting Students
Are you a high‑school student who dreams of studying accounting at a public university in South Africa but worries about the cost? The South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) has just opened applications for its 2026 Scholarship Programme. This program offers full financial help for students who want a BCom Accounting degree (or a similar course) at an accredited public university.
What the Scholarship Covers
The SAIPA Scholarship is designed to take the money‑stress off your shoulders. If you win, you’ll receive:
- Full tuition fees for the entire academic year
- All required textbooks as listed by your university
- Accommodation if you need a place to stay on campus
- A monthly student allowance to cover everyday living costs
Because of this support, you can focus on your studies instead of worrying about bills.
How the Program Works
In 2026, SAIPA will award five scholarships. One of those will be the Rashied Small Memorial Scholarship. It was created to honor Professor Rashied Small, a respected accounting leader who believed in making the field open for everyone. Winning this part of the scholarship is a way to keep his spirit alive and help others succeed.
The Selection Process
After you send in your application, the steps are simple:
- Qualifying exam – Eligible candidates will take a test to show their knowledge.
- Interview – Shortlisted applicants will sit down with a panel from SAIPA to discuss their goals and reasons for applying.
Successful students will find out by 23 January 2026. If you haven’t heard back by then, your application was not accepted.
Who Can Apply
To be considered, you must meet all of these conditions:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Either be in your final year of high school (Matric) or have finished it in the last two years.
- Intend to study full‑time for a BCom Accounting degree or a similar program.
- Plan to enroll at a public university in South Africa that is accredited.
- Have a minimum average of 70 % in Mathematics and English.
- Show that you have a financial need:
- Household income not over R350,000 a year.
- For students with disabilities, the limit is R600,000 a year.
If any of these points are missing, your application will not be considered.
How to Apply – It’s Easy
You do not need to fill out a form online. Just send an email:
- Address: scholarship@saipa.co.za
- Subject line: “SAIPA Scholarship 2026”
In the body of the email, include a short explanation of why you need this scholarship. Keep it under 250 words. Make sure to attach all required documents (see below).
Documents You Need
Send certified copies of:
- Your South African ID.
- If you’re still in high school, your latest Matric results.
- If you have already finished, your Matric certificate or final statement of results.
- A letter of acceptance from the university you plan to attend.
- Your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors.
- A motivational letter (max 250 words) explaining why this scholarship would help you.
Missing any of these items could mean your application is rejected, so double‑check everything before you hit send.
When to Apply
The deadline is 15 January 2026. Late applications won’t be accepted, so get your documents together and send your email as soon as you can.
Why This Matters
The SAIPA 2026 Scholarship is more than just money. It gives bright students who need support a chance to start a career in accounting without the stress of tuition or living costs. With this backing, you can build a strong foundation for a future in the profession.
Keep an eye on trusted bursary sites and official SAIPA channels for more updates and tips on applying. If you meet the eligibility criteria and need help getting your paperwork ready, don’t wait—apply now and take the first step toward a promising accounting career.