SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Fund 2026

Many young South Africans dream of becoming Chartered Accountants (CAs), but the cost of university makes that dream feel far away. If you are a dedicated student from a disadvantaged background, the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Fund could be your key to a brighter future.

Established in 2005 by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), this bursary helps African and Coloured students who want to study towards becoming a CA(SA). The bursary doesn’t only pay for university fees. It gives students full support to help them succeed both at university and later in the workplace.

About the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Fund

The Thuthuka Bursary is unique because it focuses on more than just financial aid. It follows a model that supports students in all areas of life. This helps them to complete their degrees successfully and prepares them for their future careers.

What the bursary covers:

• University tuition fees: The full cost of your university classes.
• Textbooks: All required study materials for your degree.
• Meals and food: Funding to ensure you can eat regularly during your studies.
• Accommodation: Full coverage of university residence or outside accommodation fees.
• Transport (where necessary): Help with getting to and from university if you don’t live in residence.

Additional support provided:

• Academic support: Including extra tutorials, workshops to improve study skills, and structured learning support.
• Emotional and social support: Counselling services and peer support groups to help you cope with challenges.
• Work readiness and life skills training: Training in time management, communication, and how to behave professionally.
• Mentorship: You’ll be guided by professionals, including qualified Chartered Accountants and business leaders.
• A dedicated programme manager: Each Thuthuka student gets someone to check in on their progress and support them throughout university.

This holistic approach helps Thuthuka students perform better in class and prepares them for real-life work environments after graduation.

Requirements

To apply for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursaries for 2026, you must meet all of the following conditions:

1. You must be a South African citizen.
   Only South African citizens will be considered.
2. You must be Black African or Coloured.
   This bursary is aimed at supporting disadvantaged racial groups as defined by SAICA’s transformation goals.
3. You must be in one of these education stages:
   • Currently in Grade 12 and writing your final exams this year.
   • Completed Matric (Grade 12) in the past two years.
   • Currently studying a BCom Accounting degree (CA-stream) at university.
4. Mathematics requirement:
   • You must have scored at least 60% in Grade 11 Mathematics.
   • Note: Maths Literacy and Technical Mathematics are not accepted.
5. You must be applying to (or already attending) a university that offers the Thuthuka BCom CA-stream programme.
   Not all universities offer this stream, so make sure to choose a SAICA-accredited institution.
6. Your family income must be R350 000 or less per year.
   You’ll be required to submit documents proving this (like payslips or affidavits).
7. You must write the National Benchmark Test (NBT) before the end of August.
   If you’ve already written the NBT, submit your results. If not, book your test and make sure to write it before the deadline.

Also check: PSG Bursary Programme 2026

How to Apply

Applications close on 31 August 2025.
Follow these steps to make sure your application is submitted correctly:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before applying, make sure you have the following documents ready. All documents must be certified copies.

• Your South African ID.
• Your Grade 11 final results and latest Grade 12 marks (if still in school).
• Matric certificate (if you have already finished school).
• University acceptance letter or proof of registration (for university students).
• Your full academic record (if already at university).
• ID copies of your parents or guardians.
• Proof of your family’s income:
  • Latest payslips if employed.
  • An affidavit if unemployed.
• Birth certificates or IDs of siblings or other dependents in the household.
• A signed Thuthuka Consent Form.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

You need to fill in the application form correctly and truthfully. Double-check all the information before submitting.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit your completed application and all supporting documents before the 31 August 2025 deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

What Happens After You Apply?

After you submit your application:

• SAICA will review your academic results, your NBT scores, and your financial situation.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews or further assessments.
• If you do not hear back from SAICA, it means your application was not successful.

The SAICA Thuthuka Bursaries 2026 present a life-changing opportunity for committed and hardworking students who aspire to become Chartered Accountants in South Africa. By offering not only full financial aid but also comprehensive academic and emotional support, this bursary programme ensures that its recipients are equipped to succeed, both during their studies and in their future careers.