In South Africa, there are numerous bursaries available across different programmes, fields, and other areas. The SAICA Thuthuka Bursary is a distinguished mission bursary aimed at redressing the balance in South Africa’s chartered accounting profession. It was initiated by the South African Institute for Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
This bursary scheme provides financial support to students pursuing successful careers in chartered accounting. The Thuthuka Bursary is a prestigious programme designed to transform the demographics of the chartered accounting profession in South Africa.
Established by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), this bursary initiative provides financial assistance and comprehensive support to deserving African and Coloured students pursuing a career in chartered accounting.
In addition to covering tuition and accommodation fees, the bursary provides mentoring, essential life-skills coaching, and connections for young people with successful role models. This is meant to ensure that bursary applicants have what it takes, both academically and career-wise. In this article, you can learn about the Thuthuka Bursary, its criteria, how to apply for it, and the closing date.
Table of Contents
What is Thuthuka Bursary?
The Thuthuka Bursary Fund is a prestigious bursary programme in South Africa that supports African students pursuing Chartered Accountancy. The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) administers this award in an effort to raise the number of Chartered Accountants in South Africa, with a special emphasis on the formerly disadvantaged.
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and a living allowance, ensuring that recipients can focus entirely on their studies.
The Thuthuka Bursary was initiated by SAICA in the early 2000s. In addition to financial assistance, the Thuthuka Bursary 2026-25 programme provides its beneficiaries with academic support, mentorship, and personal development opportunities.
Since its inception, the Thuthuka Bursary has supported thousands of students in their pursuit of chartered accountant qualifications.
Fields Covered By Thuthuka Bursary 2026
SAICA funding is inviting students to apply for the Thuthuka Bursary for the 2026 academic year.
The Thuthuka Bursary is available to students pursuing a career in Chartered Accountancy. It is specifically for those enrolled in the following undergraduate qualifications at these selected institutions:
| University | Course Name | Course Code |
|---|---|---|
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) | Bachelor of Accounting | BCA012 |
| University of Pretoria (UP) | Accounting Sciences | 07130044 |
| University of Witwatersrand (WITS) | B Acc Science | CB008 |
| University of Free State (UFS – Bloemfontein Campus) | Bachelor of Accounting / PGCA | BC636060 / BC656060 |
| University of Fort Hare (UFH) | B Com Accounting | 60001 |
| University of Cape Town (UCT) | B Com / PGDA | CB024 / CG010ACC01 |
| University of Western Cape (UWC) | 1021 or 1753 | |
| Stellenbosch University (SU) | B Com Accounting / B Rek | 3091001 |
| Rhodes University (RU) | Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) | |
| Nelson Mandela University (NMU) | B Com Accounting | 40103 |
| North West University (NWU – Potch Campus) | B Com CA | 5DAH01-E302 |
| University of Kwa-Zulu Natal (UKZN – Westville Campus) | Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting | BCOM-C |
| University of Limpopo (UL) | CTA only: PGDA [Post Graduate Diploma in Accountancy] |
Eligibility Requirements for Thuthuka Bursary
To be eligible for the Thuthuka Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria, which are mentioned below:
- The candidate must be a South African citizen.
- The bursary is specifically aimed at African students.
- Must be in Grade 12 or have completed Grade 12 with excellent academic results.
- Achieve a minimum of 60% in mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) in Grade 11 and Grade 12.
- Must have excellent academic potential.
- Must be accepted or provisionally accepted at a SAICA-accredited university offering an undergraduate BCom Accounting degree.
- Demonstrate financial need for a combined family income of not more than R350 000 per annum
- Lastly, the candidate should be committed to pursuing Chartered Accountant qualifications.
How to Apply Online for Thuthuka Bursary?
The Thuthuka Bursary application process is conducted online. Follow these steps to apply:
Access the official Thuthuka Bursary section on the SAICA website. You need to submit clear copies of the following documents:
- Candidate ID document (certified copy)
- Attach Grade 11 final results (certified copy)
- Attach Matric latest results, if currently in Matric (certified copy)
- Clear document of matric final results, if completed Matric (certified copy)
- Add Proof of University provisional acceptance/ registration if currently in Matric (on University letterhead)
- Also, attach a full university academic record if currently studying (on University letterhead)
- Attach your Parents or guardians ID documents (certified copies)
- Attach your Parents or guardian’s proof of income (latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed) (certified copies)
- Attach ID documents or birth certificates of other dependents in your family income (certified copies)
- Lastly, sign the Thuthuka Consent Form & submit it online on the official site.
What is the Thuthuka Bursary Monthly Allowance?
The Thuthuka Bursary provides a monthly allowance to cover the living expenses of recipients. This allowance is designed to cover costs such as food, transportation, and personal items, ensuring students can maintain a reasonable standard of living while studying. The exact amount of the monthly allowance varies based on individual needs and the cost of living in the student’s area of study. Detailed information regarding the monthly allowance will be provided to successful applicants.
What is the Thuthuka Bursary Closing Date?
The closing date for the Thuthuka Bursary application has not yet been announced. It is advisable to apply early to avoid delays. Applicants should regularly check the Thuthuka Bursary deadline section on the SAICA website or contact the bursary office directly. It is essential to submit the bursary application well before the deadline, as late applications will not be considered.
SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Contact Detail
You can also connect with the Thuthuka Bursary directly at
- Tel: 011 621 6600 or
- Email: tbf@saica.co.za
Conclusion
The Thuthuka Bursary Fund offers a chance to black-coloured students in South Africa who want to become excellent accountants. It helps remove financial barriers that prevent potential students from achieving their academic or professional goals. Any potential candidate must meet all eligibility requirements to apply for it and send their application on time.
For more information related to bursaries, how to apply, and different education opportunities, visit Regenesys Education‘s Reginsights page now!
FAQs
What fields of study does the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary cover?
The bursary supports students pursuing a BCom Accounting degree at SAICA-accredited universities.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Thuthuka Bursary?
To be eligible for the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary, applicants must be South African citizens from historically disadvantaged backgrounds and meet the required academic criteria. The bursary is typically awarded to students pursuing an undergraduate degree in accounting or a postgraduate qualification in chartered accounting.
Is the Thuthuka Bursary only for undergraduate studies or not?
No, the Thuthuka Bursary supports both undergraduate and postgraduate studies in chartered accounting.
What does the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary cover?
The Thuthuka Bursary covers tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and other related expenses for the duration of the recipient’s studies.
What support structures are provided by the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary Programme?
In addition to financial assistance, the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary programme offers academic support, mentorship, personal development workshops, and career guidance to its beneficiaries.
