Unlocking Opportunities Through Accounting Bursaries in South Africa

Accounting is one of the most in-demand and respected careers in South Africa. From managing financial records to guiding businesses through audits and tax processes, accountants play a crucial role in almost every industry. But let’s be real, the road to becoming a qualified accountant isn’t cheap. With university tuition, study materials, and living costs rising every year, many aspiring students are left wondering how they’ll afford it all.

That’s where accountingbursariescome in. These are financial awards designed to help students pay for their studies and sometimes more. In this post, we’re diving deep into what accounting bursaries are all about, the different types available, and how they can help shape your future career.

What Is an Accounting Bursary?

An accounting bursary is a form of financial aid offered to students who are studying (or planning to study) towards an accounting qualification. Unlike a student loan, you don’t usually need to pay a bursary back unless it comes with a contract, like working for the sponsor after graduation.

These bursaries are typically awarded by:

• Government departments(like the National Treasury)
• Private companies (especially banks and audit firms)
• Professional organisations (like SAICA)
• Universities and colleges

The goal is to support talented students who may not have the financial means to complete their studies, especially those from underrepresented communities.

Main Categories of Accounting Bursaries

Accounting isn’t just about crunching numbers  it’s a broad field with multiple specialisations. Thankfully, bursaries are often tailored to these different focus areas. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types:

Chartered Accounting (CA) Bursaries

These are the most popular bursaries, aimed at students who want to become Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)). They usually cover tuition, accommodation, books, and more and may come with internships or vacation work.

Some well-known sponsors include:

• SAICA’s Thuthuka Bursary
• Deloitte
• PwC
• KPMG
• EY

Forensic Accounting Bursaries

If you’re passionate about investigating fraud or working in financial crime, this is your lane. These bursaries support students who want to get into forensic auditing or financial investigation roles.

Auditing Bursaries

Auditing is another branch of accounting that focuses on examining financial statements for accuracy. Both internal and external auditing roles are in high demand, and companies often fund students who show strong attention to detail and ethics.

Management Accounting Bursaries

This specialisation focuses on budgeting, cost control, and performance management especially useful in large corporations. Bursaries in this field may come from industries like manufacturing, retail, and logistics.

Financial Accounting Bursaries

These bursaries support students studying general financial accounting, often at universities of technology or through diploma programs.

Tax and Revenue Bursaries

Love tax law? Organisations like SARS offer bursaries to students interested in becoming tax professionals or revenue specialists.

Who Qualifies for Accounting Bursaries?

Every bursary has its own requirements, but most share these common factors:

• Good academic results , especially in Maths, Accounting, and English
• Proof of financial need (many bursaries aim to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds)
• South African citizenship
• A plan to study accounting or a related course at a recognised university

Some bursaries may also focus on supporting black students, women, or students from rural areas, in line with South Africa’s transformation and empowerment goals.

What Do Accounting Bursaries Usually Cover?

Depending on the sponsor, an accounting bursary might cover some or all of the following:

• Full or partial tuition fees
• Accommodation or residence fees
• Textbooks and study materials
• A monthly stipend for meals and transport
• Mentorship and academic support
• Holiday internships or training

Some bursaries come with a work-back obligation, meaning you’ll work for the sponsor for a set number of years after graduating.

Why Apply for an Accounting Bursary?

Aside from the obvious financial relief, getting a bursary has several other benefits:

• You focus more on your studies, not your bank account.
• You connect with top companies before you even graduate.
• You gain real-world experience through internships and mentorship.
• You get job security if there’s a work-back agreement.

Plus, let’s not forget accounting skills are always in demand. Whether you want to work in the corporate world, start your own business, or even consult internationally, the opportunities are endless.

Final Thoughts

If you’re passionate about numbers, financial planning, or even forensic investigation, accounting could be your perfect match. And if money is the only thing standing in your way, accounting bursaries are here to help.

There are dozens of options out there from government and corporate bursaries to university-specific aid. Take the time to research, prepare your documents, and apply early. Your future career in accounting might just start with a single bursary application.

Need help finding a bursary?Check out ourBursary Listingsor contact us for guidance we're here to help you succeed.