Unlock your financial future with these prestigious bursaries tailored for accounting and finance students—each offered by notable companies and institutions committed to developing the next generation of finance professionals.
1. Old Mutual – Chartered Accountancy Bursary
- Who They Are & Why They Offer It
Old Mutual is a leading pan-African financial services group. They offer bursaries to foster young accounting talent—especially from previously disadvantaged communities—to eventually become chartered accountants within their talent pipeline.
(Mention of investments in actuarial/accounting bursary students appears in their integrated reports) oldmutual.com - Deadline: Varies annually—applications often open in the first half of the year. Exact 2026 dates should be checked on Old Mutual’s bursary site (when available).
- Requirements:
- South African citizens
- Matriculants or undergraduates studying BCom Accounting Sciences (CA stream) at SAICA-accredited institutions
- Strong academic performance in Mathematics, English, and overall average
- Preference given to those with financial need or from under-represented groups
- How to Apply: Through Old Mutual’s official bursary portal—register, submit your academic records, motivation letter, and supporting documents.
2. SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Fund
- Who They Are & Why They Offer It
The Thuthuka Fund, administered by SAICA, aims to redress past inequalities by supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds in accounting, providing funding, mentorship, and development to uphold standards in the profession. - Deadline: Typically around late August (e.g., 31 August 2025 for 2026 intake) StudyTrust.
- Requirements:
- South African students pursuing SAICA-accredited accounting degrees
- Preference for those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and with strong academic performance
- How to Apply: Via SAICA or participating universities’ bursary offices—complete the Thuthuka application and submit relevant academic documentation.
3. Sage External Bursary (via StudyTrust)
- Who They Are & Why They Offer It
Sage South Africa is a global enterprise cloud software provider. Their bursary—administered by StudyTrust—aims to empower previously disadvantaged students and persons with disabilities to pursue studies in IT, Accounting, and Computer Science. StudyTrust - Deadline: 1 May to 30 September 2025 for the 2026 academic year. StudyTrust
- Requirements:
- South African citizens, preferably previously disadvantaged individuals
- Admitted into a public university in Accounting, IT, or Computer Sciences (all fields considered for students with disabilities)
- Family income between R350,000 and R500,000 p.a. (NSFAS-eligible applicants still considered if not funded)
- Achieved ≥ 65% average (or ≥ 75% in Grade 12 Maths and Physical Science for current learners); exceptions for students with disabilities under certain circumstances StudyTrust
- What’s Covered: Tuition, accommodation or private residence costs, stationery, books, and historical study debt. StudyTrust
- How to Apply: Submit your application via StudyTrust’s online platform within the specified window. StudyTrust
4. Standard Bank Group Bursary (via StudyTrust)
- Who They Are & Why They Offer It
Standard Bank, a leading African banking group, invests in developing Africa’s skills pipeline by supporting students in fields like IT, Data Science, and Finance, preparing them for careers in a data-driven economy. StudyTrust - Deadline: Open from 1 May to 30 September 2025 for the 2026 intake. StudyTrust
- Requirements:
- South African citizens, succeeding academically (minimum 65%)
- Enrolled or intending to enroll in undergraduate or postgraduate studies in IT, Computer & Data Science, or similar fields. StudyTrust
- What’s Covered: Full tuition, textbooks, accommodation, medical aid, living allowance, laptop, mentoring, and psychological support. StudyTrust
- How to Apply: Via the StudyTrust bursary application platform during the application window. StudyTrust
Summary Table
| Provider | Deadline (2025 for ‘26 Intakes) | Fields Covered | Who They Are & Why They Offer It | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Mutual – CA Bursary | TBD; first half of year | Accounting (CA stream) | Create future CAs, support transformation | Old Mutual bursary portal |
| SAICA Thuthuka Fund | ~31 Aug 2025 | Accounting (SAICA-accredited degrees) | Develop contributors to the profession from disadvantaged backgrounds | SAICA or university bursary offices |
| Sage External Bursary (StudyTrust) | 1 May – 30 Sept 2025 | Accounting, IT, Computer Science | Empower PDIs and students w/ disabilities to succeed academically | StudyTrust online platform |
| Standard Bank Bursary (StudyTrust) | 1 May – 30 Sept 2025 | IT, Computer & Data Science, Finance | Develop future talent for innovation and tech growth in Africa | StudyTrust online platform |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Bursaries in South Africa 2026
1. What is a bursary?
A bursary is financial assistance given to students to help cover the costs of their studies. In South Africa, bursaries are usually offered by government departments, private companies, universities, and NGOs. Depending on the provider, a bursary may cover tuition fees only, or it may also include accommodation, textbooks, and living allowances. Unlike loans, most bursaries do not have to be repaid, although some come with conditions such as maintaining good grades or working for the sponsor after graduation.
2. Who qualifies for a bursary?
Eligibility depends on the bursary provider, but most bursaries require applicants to:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Be accepted or enrolled at a recognized university or TVET college.
- Have good academic performance.
- Show financial need (for need-based bursaries).
- In some cases, demonstrate leadership potential or community involvement.
3. Do bursaries cover accommodation and living expenses?
Yes, some bursaries are full-cost bursaries, which means they pay for tuition, residence, meals, transport, and study materials. Examples include Sasol, Old Mutual, and some government bursaries. Others may only cover tuition or provide a partial contribution. Always read the bursary terms carefully to understand what is included.
4. Can I apply for more than one bursary?
Yes, students can apply for multiple bursaries at the same time. This increases your chances of being funded. If you are awarded more than one bursary, you will normally have to choose one. Some providers also ask you to declare whether you are receiving other financial assistance.
5. Do I have to pay back a bursary?
Most bursaries do not need to be repaid. However, some include a work-back obligation, which means you will have to work for the sponsoring company or government department for a certain number of years after graduation. This is common in bursaries from banks, law firms, and big corporations, and it ensures you gain practical work experience.
6. What happens if I fail my studies while on a bursary?
Most bursary contracts require students to maintain a minimum average, often around 60–65%. If you fail a module or do not meet the performance standard, your bursary funding could be suspended or cancelled. Some bursary providers allow students to repeat failed modules, but this depends on the contract terms.
7. When should I apply for bursaries for 2026?
Bursary applications for the 2026 academic year usually open between April and October 2025. Each bursary has its own deadline, so it’s important to keep track. Large organizations like Sasol, Nedbank, and Shoprite often open applications mid-year, while university bursaries may close later in the year.
8. Do bursaries guarantee me a job after graduation?
Not all bursaries guarantee employment, but many corporate bursaries (like those from banks, retailers, and law firms) include a job offer or internship after graduation. Government bursaries also sometimes place graduates in public service roles. Always check the bursary conditions to know whether a work placement is included.
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