Ernst & Young, now rebranded as EY, is inviting applications for its bursary programme for the 2026 academic year. Recognised as one of the global “Big Four” accounting firms, EY supports top-performing South African students in their journey towards becoming Chartered Accountants.
About EY
EY was established in 1989 following the merger of Ernst & Whinney and Arthur Young & Co, although its history dates back to 1849 with the founding of Harding & Pullein. Today, the firm employs more than 230 000 professionals across 700 offices in 150 countries, with its headquarters in London.
The company delivers tax, advisory, assurance, and consulting services to leading industries, including financial services, oil and gas, real estate, mining, telecommunications, government, technology, life sciences, and healthcare.
About the EY Bursary Programme – Fields Covered
The EY Bursary Programme is aimed at students pursuing a Chartered Accountancy degree at SAICA-accredited universities in South Africa.
There are two types of bursaries available:
- Academic Merit with Financial Need Bursary: For students with an excellent academic record and proven financial need.
- Academic Merit Bursary: For students with an excellent academic record only.
Bursary Coverage and Service Contract
The bursary will cover the following, depending on the type awarded:
- Academic Merit Bursary – partial tuition fees only.
- Academic Merit with Financial Need Bursary – full or partial cover for tuition fees, accommodation, books, and meals.
Upon completing their qualification, successful applicants will be required to enter into a minimum three-year training contract with EY.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have completed Matric or be currently in Matric.
- Achieve a minimum of four A’s in Matric (excluding Life Orientation).
- Be studying or planning to study towards a Chartered Accountancy degree.
- Be enrolled or intending to enrol at a SAICA-accredited university, including University of Johannesburg, Wits, University of Pretoria, Stellenbosch University, UCT, Rhodes, North West University, University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of the Free State, and others.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record and accounting skills.
- Show financial need if applying for the Academic Merit with Financial Need Bursary.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online via the following links:
Required Documents
Applicants must upload the following documents as a single PDF file:
- Certified copy of ID document.
- Certified copy of Matric certificate.
- Full academic record (including 2025 mid-year results).
- Proof of university registration.
- Three months’ bank statement.
- Proof of household income (latest payslips or affidavit if unemployed) – for need-based applicants.
- Latest university fee quote.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivational letter.
Late applications will not be accepted.
- Closing Date 31 October 2025.
- Contact the Bursary Provider: For queries regarding the bursary programme, applicants can connect with EY directly: Contact EY South Africa
The EY Bursary Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity for South African students aiming to qualify as Chartered Accountants. With financial support, career prospects, and a guaranteed training contract, EY continues to invest in future leaders of the profession.
Check also: Canon Collins RMTF Scholarship Programme (2026)