PwC South Africa has opened applications for its CA Programme Bursary for the 2027 academic year, and it is one of the best-known routes to becoming a Chartered Accountant in the country. The bursary is aimed at high-achieving learners and students who want to qualify as a CA(SA) through a SAICA-accredited university, and it can cover a large share of your study costs while setting you up for a training contract with a global firm. If you have strong marks in Mathematics and English, this is a career-defining opportunity. Applications close on 31 August 2026.
About the Programme
PwC is one of the world’s largest professional services firms, offering audit, assurance, tax, legal, consulting and advisory services to clients across South Africa and around the globe. Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant through a firm like PwC is widely regarded as one of the most respected and financially rewarding career paths a young South African can pursue.
The PwC CA Programme Bursary is designed to identify future accounting talent early and support them from university right through to professional qualification. Beyond funding, bursars gain leadership development, professional growth and the chance to complete their SAICA training contract at PwC after graduation. For a young person with a head for numbers, the programme turns a school-level talent into a globally recognised professional qualification.
What Is Covered
Funding is tailored to each student’s financial need and academic performance, and may include:
- Between 20% and 100% of tuition fees
- A book allowance
- Between 20% and 100% of accommodation costs, depending on financial need
- A once-off living allowance for high financial-need cases
- An academic achievement award paid to the university for strong results
- Leadership development, mentorship and the opportunity of a SAICA training contract with PwC after graduation
Who Can Apply
- You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- You must plan to become a Chartered Accountant through a SAICA-accredited university
- Matric applicants need at least a B symbol in Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) and English, with an overall average of 75%
- First and second-year university students need a minimum overall average of 70%
- Third and fourth-year university students need a minimum overall average of 65%
- The bursary is not intended for students who need a bridging course before postgraduate studies
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Required Documents
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Your latest academic results (Grade 11 and mid-year Grade 12 results for matriculants, or university transcripts)
- Your final Grade 12 results, once available
- Proof of application or acceptance at a SAICA-accredited university
- Proof of household income for financial-need assessment
- A curriculum vitae and any additional documents requested in the online form
How to Apply
- Confirm that you meet the academic requirements for your level of study
- Gather your certified ID, academic results and proof of university application or acceptance
- Visit the official PwC careers and bursaries page using the link below
- Complete the online bursary application form in full
- Upload all supporting documents and submit before the closing date
Closing Date
The closing date for the PwC CA Programme Bursary 2027 is 31 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
Chartered Accountants are among the most sought-after and best-paid professionals in South Africa, yet the cost of studying towards a CA(SA) puts it out of reach for many talented young people. A bursary from a firm like PwC does not only pay the fees, it provides mentorship, professional networks and a clear path to a training contract and full qualification.
In a country where youth unemployment is high, securing a scarce, in-demand profession is one of the surest ways to build long-term financial security. For a matriculant with strong marks in Mathematics, applying for this bursary could be the single most important decision they make for their future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need work experience to apply?
No. This is a bursary for aspiring Chartered Accountants, so no work experience is required. You are assessed on your academic results and financial need.
Can I apply if I took Mathematical Literacy?
No. Matric applicants need at least a B symbol in pure Mathematics, not Mathematical Literacy.
Which universities can I attend?
Any SAICA-accredited South African university that offers the CA route. You must be applying to or studying at one of these institutions.
What happens after I graduate?
Successful students may complete their SAICA training contract with PwC after graduation, gaining the practical experience needed to qualify as a CA(SA).
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