Understanding the Thuthuka Bursary for 2027

The path to becoming a Chartered Accountant in South Africa is a rewarding one, but it can also be financially challenging. Fortunately, opportunities like the Thuthuka Bursary exist to support aspiring professionals. For the 2027 academic year, the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) is offering this valuable bursary to students committed to pursuing a career in chartered accountancy. This bursary aims to uplift students from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with the financial and academic support needed to succeed.

The Thuthuka Bursary is specifically designed for students who want to study towards SAICA-accredited undergraduate accounting qualifications at participating universities across South Africa. It’s more than just financial aid; it’s a comprehensive support system aimed at nurturing future leaders in the accounting field.

Fields of Study Supported by the Thuthuka Bursary

The Thuthuka Bursary is exclusively for students pursuing a career in Chartered Accountancy. It supports selected undergraduate qualifications at several reputable South African universities. These include:

• Nelson Mandela University: BCom Accounting (Course Code 40103)
• University of the Free State, Bloemfontein Campus: Bachelor of Accounting (Course Code BC636060) or PGCA (Course Code BC656060)
• University of Johannesburg: Bachelor of Accounting (Course Code BCA012)
• Stellenbosch University: BCom Accounting / B Rek (Course Code 3091001)
• University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus: Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting (Course Code BCOM-C)
• University of Pretoria: Accounting Sciences (Course Code 07130044)
• University of Cape Town: BCom (Course Code CB024) or PGDA (Course Code CG010ACC01)
• North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus: BCom CA (Course Code 5DAH01-E302)
• University of the Witwatersrand: BAcc Science (Course Code CB008)
• Rhodes University: Bachelor of Commerce Accounting
• University of Fort Hare: BCom Accounting (Course Code 60001)
• University of the Western Cape: (Course Codes 1021 or 1753)
• University of Limpopo: CTA only, PGDA, Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy

What the Thuthuka Bursary Covers

The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary provides significant financial assistance to help ease the burden of higher education costs. While the exact coverage can vary, it typically includes:

• Tuition Fees: The cost of your university courses.
• Books: Essential textbooks and study materials.
• Meals: Support for daily food expenses.
• Residence Fees: Costs associated with living in university accommodation.
• Accommodation: Assistance with living expenses if not residing in a university residence.

Additional Benefits for Bursary Recipients

Beyond financial aid, the Thuthuka Bursary offers a holistic support system designed to foster academic and personal growth. Recipients can benefit from:

• Academic Support: This includes extra tutorials, study skills workshops, and other development programs to help students excel in their studies.
• Social and Emotional Support: Access to resources that help students manage the pressures of university life and personal well-being.
• Work-Readiness and Life Skills Training: Programs designed to equip students with the professional skills needed to transition smoothly into the workplace.
• Mentoring and Counselling: Guidance from experienced chartered accountants and business leaders, along with professional counselling services.
• Networking Opportunities: Exposure to professionals in the field, which can open doors to future career prospects.
• Dedicated Programme Manager: A point of contact to help navigate the bursary program and university life.

Bursary Contract and Renewal

Successful applicants will be required to sign a contract with the Thuthuka Education and Upliftment Fund and NSFAS. This contract outlines the terms and conditions of the bursary. Bursaries are awarded on an annual basis, and renewal depends on the student’s continued academic performance and adherence to the bursary’s terms, as determined by the fund.

Selection Criteria for the Thuthuka Bursary

The selection process for the Thuthuka Bursary is thorough and considers several key factors to identify deserving candidates. The main criteria include:

• Academic Results: Strong performance in previous academic years, particularly in subjects relevant to accounting.
• Financial Need: A demonstrated need for financial assistance, assessed through the NSFAS financial means test.
• National Benchmark Test (NBT) Results: Performance on standardized tests that assess readiness for higher education.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Thuthuka Bursary, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Race: Must be Black African or Coloured students.
• Background: Must come from a disadvantaged background.
• Matric Status: Must currently be in Matric or have completed Matric within the last two years.
• Mathematics Performance: A minimum of 60% (Level 5) in Mathematics in Grade 11 is required. Mathematics Literacy and Technical Mathematics are not accepted.
• Field of Study: Must be studying or intend to study one of the listed SAICA-accredited qualifications in 2027.
• University Application: Must have applied or be in the process of applying to one of the listed SAICA-accredited universities.
• Family Income: Combined family income must not exceed R350,000 per annum.
• National Benchmark Tests: Must have written or commit to writing the National Benchmark Tests before the bursary closing date.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of the following supporting documents:

• Certified copy of ID document.
• Certified copy of Grade 11 final results.
• Certified copy of latest Matric results (if currently in Matric).
• Certified copy of Matric final results (if Matric has been completed).
• Proof of university provisional acceptance or registration (if currently in Matric).
• Full university academic record (if currently studying).
• Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
• Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed).
• Certified copies of ID documents or birth certificates of other dependents in the family household.
• Signed Thuthuka Consent Form.

How to Apply for the Thuthuka Bursary

The application process for the Thuthuka Bursary is primarily online. Interested students should:

1. Visit the official application portal.
2. Complete the online application form accurately.
3. Upload all required supporting documents.
4. Download and complete the Thuthuka Consent Form.
5. Ensure all submissions are made before the closing date.

It is crucial to ensure all documents are correctly submitted, as missing or incomplete documentation can lead to disqualification.

Important Application Notes

Prospective applicants should pay close attention to the following important points:

• Completeness of Documents: Ensure every required document is submitted.
• National Benchmark Tests: Writing these tests is a mandatory part of the application.
• University Application: You must be in the process of applying to or already accepted by a listed university.

Closing Date for Applications

The application window for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursaries for the 2027 academic year closes on 31 August 2026. Late applications will not be considered, so it is advisable to submit your application well in advance of the deadline.

Conclusion

The Thuthuka Bursary represents a significant opportunity for Black African and Coloured students from disadvantaged backgrounds in South Africa to pursue a career in Chartered Accountancy. By providing financial aid, academic support, and personal development resources, SAICA aims to nurture the next generation of accounting professionals. Aspiring students who meet the eligibility criteria should carefully prepare their applications and submit them by the 31 August 2026 deadline to take advantage of this transformative program.

Frequently Asked Questions