If you’re a final‑year student who wants to build a career in risk, technology, regulation or audit, the PWC Risk Services Bursary 2026 is one opportunity you should know about. This article will explain what the bursary is, who qualifies, what you get, how to apply, and tips to stand out.
About the PWC Risk Services Bursary 2026
The Risk Services Bursary 2026 is a bursary offered by PwC South Africa. It is linked to a three‑year fixed‑term contract in which you work with PwC in risk, regulatory, or IT audit / data trust areas.
If selected, you become an associate working directly with clients across different industries, helping them solve risk, compliance, and tech challenges. You will gain on‑the‑job exposure, mentoring, and structured training.
You can work in one of two main streams:
- Risk & Regulation
- Support clients in adapting to regulatory changes
- Identify systems and controls to ensure regulatory compliance
- Prepare regulatory analyses and reports
- Build relationships and client networks
- Build subject‑matter expertise
- Digital Trust / IT Audit & Data
- Identify risks and controls in IT systems
- Review infrastructure, security, data privacy
- Assess business process controls
- Do system reviews before and after implementations
- Work on governance, risk, compliance (GRC), ERP systems and more
By combining risk understanding and technology skills, you become valuable in the modern, interconnected business world.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet all the requirements. PwC is strict about meeting their conditions:
- Your degree / field of study
Your 2025 final‑year undergraduate degree must be in one of these areas:- Finance & Investment Management
- Economics
- Risk Management
- Commercial Law (LLB)
- Engineering
- Management / Business Sciences
- BSc Information Systems / Technology
- BSc Computer Science
- BSc Data Analytics
- BSc Mathematics & Statistics
You must also be willing to do your honours degree in one of those disciplines in 2026.
- Academic performance
Your 3rd and 4th year (or final years) university average should be at least 65%. - South African citizen / permanent resident
You need to provide proof (ID, permanent residency) in your application. - English proficiency and communication skills
You must be comfortable in English and able to communicate well. - Financial need and academic merit
The bursary is awarded based on both your academic performance and financial need. That means even if your results are good, you’ll need proof that you need help.
If you fail any of these, your application may be disqualified, so double‑check before you apply.
What the Bursary Covers (and What You Must Do in Return)
Here’s what you stand to gain — and what is expected from you:
What’s covered:
- Tuition and/or accommodation: The bursary can cover anywhere from 20% up to 100% of your tuition and possibly your accommodation (if you show high financial need).
- Book allowance: You get support for textbooks.
- Living allowance: A once‑off allowance may be granted, especially for students from very needy backgrounds.
The exact proportion you get depends on your results and financial status. PwC uses a sliding scale to decide.
What you must do in return:
- You must work for PwC after you finish your studies — typically for three years, in one of the areas specified.
- Maintain good academic performance and meet any performance conditions during your studies.
- Fulfill the duties of your associate role in Risk Services.
Recommended for you: Bursary Application Checklist: Documents You Must Have
How to Apply
Here is a simplified guide through the application process:
- Gather documents
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of matric certificate
- Full academic record (including 2025 mid‑year exam results)
- Proof of registration or acceptance at the university
- For parents/guardians: three recent payslips or official bank statements; or an affidavit if unemployed
- Complete the online application
- PwC has an online portal for bursary and graduate applications
- You must register an account, fill in your details honestly, upload all required documents
- Pay close attention to the reference number: PWC250901‑1
- Submit before the deadline
- The closing date is 05 October 2025
- Late or incomplete applications are typically not considered
- Assessment & selection
- PwC may review your academic records, financial need, personal statement, CV
- They may require interviews, assessments, or tests
- Final selection will reflect both your academic strength and personal qualities
- If selected
- Sign the bursary agreement
- Begin your bursary tenure, training and work placement
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
Because many students will apply, you want every edge you can get:
- Strong academic record: Since 65% is the minimum, aim higher if possible
- Clear motivation & interest: Explain why risk services, regulation, or digital trust excites you
- Showcase relevant skills: If you’ve done projects in IT, data, regulation, controls, audits — mention them
- Leadership & involvement: Membership/leadership in clubs, volunteer work, student projects
- Communication & clarity: Write in clear English, with good grammar, structuring your arguments
- Complete documentation: Missing or uncertified documents may disqualify you
- Submit early: Don’t leave until the last minute in case technical problems arise
Also check: SIOC Community Development Trust Bursary Programme (2026)
The Risk Services Bursary 2026 (PWC250901‑1) at PwC is a unique opportunity for graduating students who want both financial support and hands-on experience in risk, regulation, and digital trust. It offers a pathway into a leading professional services firm, while building your skills in areas companies need most.