The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 is now open for applications. If you are a Black African or Coloured South African student wanting to become a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), this bursary could change your life. The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) runs this programme to help talented students from low-income households access top-quality accounting degrees. Since 2005, the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 has supported hundreds of students through university and into successful careers. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know: who qualifies, what the bursary covers, which universities you can attend, and how to apply before the closing date.
About SAICA and the Thuthuka Bursary Programme
The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) is the country’s top accountancy body. It was formed in Johannesburg back in 1894 as “The Institute of Accountants and Auditors”. Today, SAICA has more than 36 000 members and is recognised as one of the leading accounting institutes in the world. SAICA supports its members with advice, resources, and services throughout their professional lives.
In 2005, SAICA launched the Thuthuka Bursary Programme to address the shortage of Black African and Coloured chartered accountants in South Africa. The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 continues this important work. “Thuthuka” means “to develop” or “to progress” in isiZulu, and that is exactly what this programme does. It helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursue a career in chartered accountancy.
Founded: 1894 (SAICA) • Bursary launched: 2005 • Academic Year: 2027 • Bursary Type: Comprehensive (tuition, books, meals, residence, plus support services)
What Does the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 Cover?
The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 is not just about paying fees. It uses a comprehensive funding model that covers much more than money. Here is what the bursary includes:
- Tuition fees – Your full registration and tuition costs are covered
- Books and study materials – All required textbooks and resources
- Meals – Daily meals while you are on campus
- Residence fees or accommodation – A safe place to stay near your university
The “Wrap Around” Support Model
What makes the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 special is the extra support students receive. This holistic approach helps Thuthuka students succeed at higher rates than other accounting students. The support includes:
- Academic support – Extra tutorials, study skills workshops, and academic enrichment programmes
- Social and emotional support – A dedicated team to help you adjust to university life
- Work-readiness training – Life skills and career preparation before you graduate
- Mentoring and counselling – Access to experienced chartered accountants and business leaders who guide you
- Dedicated programme manager – Someone who checks on your progress and helps solve problems
This integrated model is why Thuthuka students are more successful than their peers. When you apply for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027, you are not just getting money. You are joining a community that wants you to succeed.
Important note: The Thuthuka Bursary cannot be used to pay for existing student loans or personal debts. It only covers future study costs.
Who Qualifies for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027?
Before you apply for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027, check that you meet all the requirements below. If you miss even one, your application will not be considered.
- You must be a South African citizen (valid ID required)
- You must be Black African or Coloured (as defined by the programme’s transformation goals)
- You must be in Grade 12, have finished Matric within the last two years, or already be studying a CA-stream BCom degree at university
- You need at least 60% (Level 5 or above) in Mathematics in Grade 11. Maths Literacy and Technical Maths are NOT accepted
- You must have applied (or be in the process of applying) for a BCom Accounting (CA-stream) degree at one of the universities that partners with Thuthuka
- Your family’s combined annual income must be R350 000 or less
- You must write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) before the end of August
If you meet all these criteria, you are a strong candidate for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027. The next step is to check which university you want to attend.
Which Universities Accept the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027?
The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 only works with specific universities. You must apply to (or already be studying at) one of these institutions. Below are the 13 partner universities and their course codes:
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
BCom Accounting – Course code: 40103
2. University of the Free State (UFS)
Bachelor of Accounting – Course code: BC636060
PGCA – Course code: BC656060
3. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Bachelor of Accounting – Course code: BCA012
4. Stellenbosch University (SU)
BCom Accounting / BRek – Course code: 3091001
5. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting – Course code: BCOM-C (Westville Campus)
6. University of Pretoria (UP)
Accounting Sciences – Course code: 07130044
7. University of Cape Town (UCT)
BCom – Course code: CB024
PGDA – Course code: CG010ACC01
8. North-West University (NWU)
BCom CA – Course code: 5DAH01-E302 (Potchefstroom Campus)
9. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
BAcc Science – Course code: CB008
10. Rhodes University (RU)
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting)
11. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
BCom Accounting – Course code: 60001
12. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Course codes: 1021 or 1753
13. University of Limpopo (UL) – CTA only
PGDA (Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy)
Heads up: You can only receive the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 if you study at one of these universities. If your chosen university is not on this list, you will need to look for other bursaries.
What Happens If You Get the Bursary?
Successful applicants for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 must sign a contract with both the Thuthuka Education and Upliftment Fund (TEUF) and NSFAS. This contract outlines your responsibilities. You will be expected to:
- Attend all classes and academic support sessions
- Maintain good academic standing (meet the pass requirements for your degree)
- Participate in mentoring and work-readiness programmes
- Represent Thuthuka positively on campus
- Complete your degree within the agreed timeframe
The good news is that you will not be alone. The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 provides a dedicated programme manager who will check on your progress and help you with any challenges.
How to Apply for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027
Follow these steps to submit your application for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027. The entire process is done online.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before you start the online form, gather these documents (you will need to upload them):
- Signed consent form (download it here)
- Your ID document (certified copy)
- Your parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents
- Parent(s)/guardian(s) latest salary slips
- Copies of ID documents for any dependents in the family
- Final Grade 11 results (certified copy)
- Final Grade 12 results (if you have already finished Matric)
- Full university transcript (if you are already at university)
- University provisional acceptance letter (if you are still in high school)
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Click the button below to go to the official Thuthuka application portal. Fill in all required fields – the form will not let you submit if you miss anything marked in red.
Direct link: https://www.thuthukabursaryfund.co.za/
Step 3: Write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT)
You must write the NBT before the end of August. If you have already written the tests, you can submit your existing results. Register at www.nbt.ac.za as soon as possible.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
⏰ Closing Date for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027: 31 August 2026 at 11:59 AM. Applications submitted after this time will not be accepted. Your application is only complete when you press the “SUBMIT” button.
Your application will be rejected if: The consent form is not signed OR any required documents are missing. Double-check everything before you submit.
Questions? Contact the Thuthuka Team
If you need help with your application for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027, reach out to the Thuthuka office. They are there to help students like you.
- Phone: 010 003 0581
- Email: thuthukabursary@saica.co.za
- Website: www.thuthukabursaryfund.co.za
SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 – Quick Summary
- Organisation: South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA)
- Bursary Name: Thuthuka Bursary Programme
- Academic Year: 2027
- Who can apply: Black African and Coloured South African citizens
- Family income limit: R350 000 per year or less
- Maths requirement: At least 60% (Level 5) in Mathematics (not Maths Literacy)
- Study level: BCom Accounting (CA-stream) or PGDA
- Partner universities: 13 SAICA-accredited universities (see list above)
- What is covered: Tuition, books, meals, accommodation, plus academic and emotional support
- Application method: Online at www.thuthukabursaryfund.co.za
- Closing date: 31 August 2026 at 11:59 AM
Frequently Asked Questions About the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027
1. Can I apply for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 if I am already at university?
Yes, you can. The programme accepts students who are already studying a CA-stream BCom degree at one of the partner universities. You will need to submit your full university transcript with your application.
2. I have Maths Literacy, not Mathematics. Can I still apply?
No. The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 requires pure Mathematics with at least 60%. Maths Literacy and Technical Maths are not accepted, even if your marks are very high.
3. My family earns just over R350 000. Can I still qualify?
The official cut-off is R350 000 per year. If your family income is slightly above this, you may still be considered based on your financial need and academic performance. However, priority is given to applicants below the threshold.
4. Do I have to apply for NSFAS as well?
Yes. Successful applicants sign a contract with both Thuthuka and NSFAS. The two organisations work together to fund your studies.
5. What happens if I do not pass all my modules?
The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027 provides academic support to help you pass. If you struggle, your programme manager will work with you to find solutions. However, repeated failure may affect your bursary renewal.
6. Can I apply if I am from a different racial group?
The Thuthuka Bursary is specifically designed for Black African and Coloured students as part of SAICA’s transformation goals. If you do not fall into these groups, please look at other bursaries on EduFunds.
7. When will I know if my application was successful?
Shortlisted applicants are usually contacted between October and December 2026. If you do not hear back by January 2027, please assume your application was not successful this time.
8. Can I apply to more than one university through Thuthuka?
You can apply to multiple universities on the list, but you can only accept one offer. Make sure you have applied separately to the university’s admission office as well.
9. Where can I find more bursaries for accounting students?
Visit private companies bursaries page for more funding opportunities. You can also check our finance bursaries section.
Looking for more study funding? Explore all bursaries for 2027 on EduFunds.co.za
South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA)
Thuthuka Bursary Programme 2027
Developing future chartered accountants • Transforming the profession • Building South Africa