SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) is inviting eligible South African students to apply for the prestigious Thuthuka Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.

The Thuthuka Bursary is one of South Africa’s leading educational support programmes for aspiring Chartered Accountants. The initiative is designed to assist academically deserving students from disadvantaged backgrounds who wish to pursue a career in Chartered Accountancy.

Beyond financial assistance, the programme offers extensive academic, social, and professional support to help students successfully complete their studies and prepare for rewarding careers.

SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme Overview

Bursary Provider: South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA)

Programme: Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027

Study Level: Undergraduate and selected postgraduate accounting qualifications

Study Location: SAICA-accredited universities across South Africa

Closing Date: 31 August 2026

What Is the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary?

The Thuthuka Bursary Programme was established to increase the number of qualified Chartered Accountants in South Africa by supporting talented students who face financial challenges.

The programme focuses on academic excellence while also providing students with mentorship, life skills development, emotional support, and professional exposure.

Successful bursary recipients become part of a structured support system designed to improve student success throughout their university journey.

Universities and Qualifications Covered

The bursary supports selected accounting qualifications at participating SAICA-accredited universities.

Nelson Mandela University

• BCom Accounting (Course Code: 40103)

University of the Free State

• Bachelor of Accounting (Course Code: BC636060)
• Postgraduate Certificate in Accounting (PGCA) (Course Code: BC656060)

University of Johannesburg

• Bachelor of Accounting (Course Code: BCA012)

Stellenbosch University

• BCom Accounting / B Rek (Course Code: 3091001)

University of KwaZulu-Natal

• Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting (Course Code: BCOM-C)

University of Pretoria

• Accounting Sciences (Course Code: 07130044)

University of Cape Town

• BCom (Course Code: CB024)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) (Course Code: CG010ACC01)

North-West University

• BCom Chartered Accountancy (Course Code: 5DAH01-E302)

University of the Witwatersrand

• Bachelor of Accounting Science (Course Code: CB008)

Rhodes University

• Bachelor of Commerce Accounting

University of Fort Hare

• BCom Accounting (Course Code: 60001)

University of the Western Cape

• Course Codes: 1021 or 1753

University of Limpopo

• Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy (CTA only)

What the Thuthuka Bursary Covers

The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary is comprehensive and may cover various study-related expenses.

Funding may include:

• Tuition fees
• Prescribed textbooks
• Accommodation costs
• Residence fees
• Meals
• Study materials

The exact funding package may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Additional Benefits of the Programme

The Thuthuka Programme offers much more than financial assistance.

Students may also receive:

Academic Support

• Additional tutorials
• Academic enrichment sessions
• Study skills workshops
• Academic monitoring and support

Personal and Social Support

• Mentorship programmes
• Counselling services
• Social and emotional support
• Access to dedicated programme managers

Career Development Opportunities

• Work-readiness training
• Life skills development
• Professional mentoring
• Networking opportunities with Chartered Accountants and business leaders

These support structures are designed to help students succeed both academically and professionally.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be a Black African or Coloured student
• Must come from a disadvantaged background
• Must currently be in Matric or have completed Matric within the past two years
• Must have achieved at least 60% (Level 5) for Mathematics in Grade 11
• Must intend studying towards Chartered Accountancy
• Must have applied or be applying to one of the participating SAICA-accredited universities
• Combined household income must not exceed R350 000 per year
• Must have written or intend writing the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs)

Please note that Mathematics Literacy and Technical Mathematics will not be accepted.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated using several criteria.

Selection will primarily be based on:

Academic Performance

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic potential, particularly in Mathematics and accounting-related subjects.

Financial Need

Financial need is assessed through the NSFAS means test and supporting financial documentation.

National Benchmark Test Results

Applicants must complete the National Benchmark Tests before the application deadline.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must submit clear copies of the following documents:

• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of Grade 11 final results
• Certified copy of latest Matric results if currently in Matric
• Certified copy of final Matric certificate if already completed Matric
• Proof of provisional university acceptance or registration, where applicable
• Full university academic record if currently studying
• Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ identity documents
• Parents’ or guardians’ proof of income
• Latest payslips for employed parents or guardians
• Affidavit confirming unemployment if parents or guardians are unemployed
• Certified copies of birth certificates or IDs of dependants in the household
• Signed Thuthuka Consent Form

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

National Benchmark Tests Requirement

Applicants are required to write the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) before the bursary application deadline.

The NBT results form part of the selection process and assist universities and SAICA in assessing academic readiness.

Applicants are encouraged to register and complete these tests as early as possible.

Bursary Contract

Successful applicants will be required to enter into a formal agreement with the Thuthuka Education and Upliftment Fund and NSFAS.

The bursary is awarded on an annual basis.

Continued funding is subject to satisfactory academic performance and compliance with programme requirements.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the online application form through the official SAICA Thuthuka application platform.

Before submitting your application, ensure that:

• All required documents have been uploaded
• The Thuthuka Consent Form has been completed and signed
• Your personal and academic information is accurate
• You have applied to one of the participating universities
• You have completed or registered for the National Benchmark Tests

Applicants must also download and complete the Thuthuka Consent Form.

Applications must be submitted before the deadline.

Important Notes

Applicants should remember the following:

• Missing supporting documents may lead to disqualification.
• Mathematics Literacy and Technical Mathematics are not accepted.
• Applicants must apply to a participating SAICA-accredited university.
• National Benchmark Tests must be completed before the closing date.
• Household income must not exceed R350 000 per annum.

Why You Should Apply

The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary remains one of South Africa’s most respected bursary programmes.

Benefits include:

• Comprehensive financial support
• Access to quality education
• Academic enrichment programmes
• Mentorship and counselling
• Professional networking opportunities
• Career development support

For students who dream of becoming Chartered Accountants, this programme can provide the support needed to achieve those goals.

Final Thoughts

The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 presents an outstanding opportunity for talented South African students who wish to pursue a career in Chartered Accountancy but require financial assistance.

Through financial support, mentorship, academic assistance, and professional development opportunities, the programme equips students with the tools needed to succeed at university and beyond.

Eligible students are encouraged to prepare their applications carefully and submit all required documents before the closing date.