Accounting is an in-demand profession in South Africa that offers high compensation. However, for many aspiring accountants, the cost of accounting programmes can be a barrier. In South Africa, several bursaries for accounting are available that help cover the cost of study.
Bursaries are a popular form of financial aid since recipients do not need to pay back the amount. Public and private sector bursaries help academically strong students from financially weak backgrounds.
In this article, we will cover the accounting bursaries available for 2026-2027 and how students can apply for them.
Table of Contents
What are Accounting Bursaries?
Accounting bursaries are forms of financial assistance or rewards offered to students pursuing higher studies in accounting and finance.
Accounting bursaries aim to support students with educational expenses, including tuition and academic fees. Some also cover the cost of study materials and other living expenses associated with their academic pursuits.
The different types of accounting bursaries that students can apply for include:
- Government-Funded Bursaries: These are offered by national or regional governments to support students in priority fields such as finance and accounting.
- Private Company Bursaries: Many corporations offer bursaries to develop future talent. These often include internships or employment opportunities after graduation.
- Professional Body Bursaries: Accounting organisations provide funding to students pursuing recognised qualifications in the field.
- University-Specific Bursaries: Institutions may offer bursaries to support enrolled students based on merit or financial need.
How to Apply for an Accounting Bursary?
Applying for accounting bursaries requires a structured and organised approach. Obtaining the bursaries requires thorough research, preparation, and submission of a fully completed application before the due date.
Understanding the bursary providers’ instructions and other eligibility criteria can improve your chances of securing financial assistance for your studies.
Interested students can follow these steps to apply for a bursary in South Africa:
1. Research available bursaries
The first step is to identify bursaries that align with your field of study and personal circumstances. You can explore the public and private offerings.
2. Check eligibility requirements
Carefully review the criteria for each bursary you are interested in. This includes academic performance, financial need, citizenship, and programme requirements. Students should only apply for bursaries that they qualify for to save time and focus their efforts.
3. Prepare required documents
Gather all necessary documents in advance, such as certified academic transcripts, identification, proof of income, and a motivational letter. Ensure that all documents are up to date and correctly certified.
4. Complete application forms
Fill in all sections of the application form with correct and consistent information. Take time to review your responses and avoid errors or omissions.
5. Submit before the deadline
Ensure that your application is submitted on time through the correct platform or method. Late submissions are usually not accepted, so early submission is recommended.
List of Accounting Bursaries
There are a wide range of bursaries available for prospective accountants. These are available for general accounting degrees and specialised programmes. These bursaries cover various fields such as Chartered Accounting, Financial Management, General Accounting, etc.
Listed below are some of these bursaries:
- AWS Skills Development Bursary
- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Bursary
- City of Cape Town Bursary
- Energy Mobility Education Trust Scholarship
- JDK Benefit Trust Bursary
- Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS)
- Shoprite Bursaries
- Eastern Cape Provincial Treasury Bursary
- Gauteng Dept of Roads and Transport Bursary
- Deloitte & Touche Bursary
- SNG Grant Thornton Bursary
- UNISA BANKSETA Bursary
- Assmang Manganese Bursary
Eligibility for Accounting Bursaries
Prospective accountants can choose to apply to multiple bursaries that are available for the 2026-2027 academic year. While the exact criteria differ slightly across bursaries, there are some general guidelines.
Academic performance is one of the primary factors considered. Students are generally expected to achieve strong results. In addition to academic requirements, many bursaries assess financial need.
Students are encouraged to check the criteria for each individual bursary before submitting their application. This helps them save time and only submit forms for applicable bursaries.
Listed below is the general criteria for bursaries for accounting students in South Africa:
- Applicants must be South African citizens
- Applicants must have a minimum score of 70% in Mathematics
- Applicants must be studying or have been accepted for an Accounting, Finance, or related programme
- Applicants must be studying or enrolled at a South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) accredited institution
- Applicants must be dedicated to studying towards a Chartered Accountancy (CA) qualification
Documents Required for Accounting Bursaries 2026-2027
Preparing the correct documentation is an important part of the bursary application process. Incomplete or incorrect submissions can result in rejection.
It is recommended to prepare all the certified documents in advance. This helps to ease the application process and makes it stress-free for the students. They are also less likely to miss out on important documents.
Listed below are some certified documents that are generally required:
- Proof of Identity
- Academic Transcript
- Financial Documentation
- Letter of Recommendation
- Personal Statement or an essay
- Proof of Enrolment or Acceptance
What are the Benefits of Accounting Bursaries?
These Accounting Bursaries are specifically granted to South African citizens pursuing or interested in pursuing a degree in accounting or finance. These funding opportunities are designed to assist capable students who may not have the financial means to access higher education.
Some of the top benefits of accounting bursaries in South Africa are:
- Reduced financial burden on students and families
- Coverage of tuition, accommodation, and study materials
- Access to quality education and recognised institutions
- Opportunities for mentorship and career development
Conclusion
Accounting Bursaries in South Africa play a crucial role in providing financial assistance for students pursuing their degrees in accounting. By providing financial assistance, the accounting bursaries encourage students to focus on their studies and achieve academic excellence.
Students who are interested in applying should begin preparing early by researching available bursaries. A well-prepared and timely application can significantly improve the chances of securing funding.
Learn more about our accredited and eligible programmes from the Regenesys Education website.
FAQs
Who can apply for accounting bursaries in South Africa?
South African citizens who meet academic requirements and plan to study accounting or related fields can apply for bursaries.
What minimum marks are required for accounting bursaries?
Many bursaries require at least 70% in Mathematics, although this may vary depending on the provider.
Can I apply for multiple bursaries at the same time?
Yes, students are encouraged to apply for multiple bursaries to increase their chances of receiving financial support.
When should I apply for 2026–2027 bursaries?
Applications usually open between mid-year and late-year before the academic intake, often from June to November.
What documents are required for bursary applications?
Common documents include ID, academic transcripts, proof of income, a personal statement, and proof of enrolment.
