Your Mathematics results could be the key to a free university education and a career as a Chartered Accountant. The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary 2027 is accepting applications now, and if you’re from a disadvantaged background, this programme could change your life. It’s not just about paying your fees — it includes accommodation, meals, textbooks, tutoring, and mentorship all the way to graduation.
What Is the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary?
The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary is a full-support development programme for South African students who want to become Chartered Accountants but don’t have the money to pay for university.
It covers:
- Tuition fees
- Residence and accommodation costs
- Meals and living expenses
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Academic tutoring and mentorship
- Career development and industry exposure
Many bursaries pay your fees and leave you to manage on your own. Thuthuka is different. The programme wraps support around you — tutors help with tough subjects, mentors guide your progress, and you get access to professionals working in accounting firms.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary 2027, you must meet all of these requirements:
Background and Status
- Be a South African citizen
- Be a Black African or Coloured student
- Come from a disadvantaged background (household income R350,000 or less per year)
Academic Requirements
- Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric within the last 2 years
- Have achieved at least 60% in pure Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) in Grade 11
- Plan to study an Accounting degree at a SAICA-accredited university in 2027
- Have written or plan to write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT)
University Requirements
You must apply to one of these SAICA-accredited universities:
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- North-West University (NWU)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Limpopo (CTA only)
What You’ll Receive (Beyond Money)
Financial support is just the beginning. Thuthuka recognises that many bright students fail not because they can’t do the work, but because they lack support systems.
Academic Support
- Extra tutorials and structured study programmes
- Workshops to strengthen weak areas
- Help with difficult subjects like Advanced Mathematics and Accounting
Personal Mentorship
- A dedicated mentor guides your progress throughout university
- Emotional and psychological support when you’re struggling
- Regular check-ins to keep you on track
Professional Development
- Life skills training and workplace readiness programmes
- Exposure to working accountants and firms
- Guidance on internships and entry into the profession
How to Apply
Applications close on 31 August 2026. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather these documents before you start your application:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Grade 11 results
- Matric results (if available)
- Proof that you’ve applied to or been accepted by a SAICA university
- Your full academic record
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ IDs
- Proof of household income (payslips, tax returns, or letters from employers)
- ID copies or birth certificates of any dependents
- Completed and signed Thuthuka Consent Form
Step 2: Submit Your Application Online
Apply for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary 2027 here
Fill out the online form carefully and upload all your documents. Incomplete applications are rejected automatically, so double-check everything before clicking submit.
Step 3: Wait for Selection
The selection process works like this:
- Your application is reviewed based on academic performance, financial need, and how complete your documents are
- Top candidates are shortlisted
- Your NBT results and overall profile are assessed
- Successful candidates are contacted directly
- If you don’t hear back, your application was unsuccessful
Tips to Improve Your Chances
The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary is competitive. Meeting the minimum requirements isn’t enough. Here’s how to stand out:
- Aim for 70%+ in Mathematics. Sixty percent is the minimum, but higher marks show you’re serious about accounting.
- Get your documents certified early. Don’t wait until the last week — this takes time.
- Write the NBT before applying. Being proactive shows commitment.
- Get a university offer letter. Applying to university alongside your bursary strengthens your case.
- Write a clear, honest personal statement. Explain why accounting matters to you and how this bursary would change your life.
- Submit early. Don’t apply on 31 August. Apply in July or early August in case you need to resubmit documents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants lose out on this opportunity through simple errors:
- Using Maths Literacy instead of Mathematics. The bursary requires pure Mathematics — Maths Literacy will disqualify you.
- Forgetting to certify documents. Uncertified copies are not accepted.
- Applying to the wrong universities. Your university must be SAICA-accredited for your application to count.
- Missing the deadline. Applications close 31 August 2026. After that date, you cannot apply.
- Assuming good marks guarantee selection. The programme considers financial need, background, and overall profile, not just grades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I’m already at university?
Yes, as long as you meet all the other criteria and are within the required stage of your studies.
Do I need Mathematics or can I use Maths Literacy?
You must have pure Mathematics with at least 60%. Maths Literacy is not accepted.
What if my household income is slightly above R350,000?
You will not qualify. The income limit is firm, though SAICA may consider exceptional circumstances. Contact them to check.
Do I have to study at a specific university?
No, but it must be a SAICA-accredited university. You can choose from the 13 universities listed above.
What happens if I’m selected?
You’ll be contacted and provided with details about registering with your chosen university. The bursary will pay your fees directly to the institution.
Can I work while studying on this bursary?
This varies. Check with the Thuthuka team directly, as some students are required to focus fully on studies, while others may be allowed part-time work. The mentorship team will guide you.
Why This Matters Right Now
South Africa has a shortage of qualified Chartered Accountants, especially from previously disadvantaged communities. That shortage means good job security and strong earning potential for those who qualify.
But getting there costs money — university fees, accommodation, textbooks, and living expenses add up fast. Many talented students never finish because they can’t afford to keep going.
The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary removes that barrier. It says: “We believe in you. We’ll fund you. We’ll support you. Now go succeed.”
Your Next Steps
If you meet the requirements, apply now. Don’t wait until August. Here’s your action plan:
- Check that you have all required documents
- Get documents certified at your nearest police station or lawyer
- Write the NBT if you haven’t already
- Apply to a SAICA university and get proof of application or acceptance
- Submit your SAICA Thuthuka application before 31 August 2026
- Keep copies of everything you submit
- Wait for contact from the SAICA team
A career as a Chartered Accountant is within your reach. The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary 2027 is designed exactly for students like you. The only thing standing between you and that opportunity is the application itself.
Start today.