South Africa Bursary Requirements 2025/2026

BDO offers financial assistance to well-rounded, academically strong candidates studying or considering studying towards a CA(SA) qualification. Preference is given to those previously disadvantaged.

Acceptance of a bursary requires the student to complete a training contract in terms of a learnership agreement with the BDO office that awards the bursary.

BDO allocates a bursary based on academic achievement and available financial resources. Our bursaries amounts vary based on each individual applicant’s circumstances or academics as well as the regions bursary budget. Our bursaries exclude residence fees and are limited to registration fees, tuition fees and books for each year of study.

Bursary applications are processed throughout the course of the year as part of the training contract application process. As we need to consider the applicants end of year exam marks for the bursary application, you will only receive feedback once these have been assess.

To be considered for a bursary, you should meet the following criteria:

  • Be studying at an accredited university which offers South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) accredited programmes through to Honours / CTA level.
  • NOT be signed with any other professional services firm to complete a Chartered Accountant training contract
  • NOT be in possession of a bursary / scholarship / financial assistance award which has employment obligations or post training contract employment obligations;
  • Commitment to study towards a CA(SA) qualification with majors in accounting and auditing

Matriculants:

Minimum “B” in Mathematics (Maths Literacy is not accepted)
Minimum “B” in English Home Language or as a 1st language
Overall average of 70% or higher in Grade 11 and Grade 12
Proof of provisional acceptance from a SAICA accredited university for the CA(SA) programme.

University students:

70% or more in Accounts I
65% or more in Accounts II
Continuation of bursary for CTA will depend on achieving the minimum requirements as stipulated by the university.

APPLY FOR A BURSARY


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Did you know : International Scholarships 2024

There are several international scholarships available for South Africans to study abroad. Here are a few examples:

  1. Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program: This program provides fully funded scholarships to study at selected universities in Africa, Europe, and North America. It is open to African students, including South Africans, who are committed to giving back to their communities.
  2. Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers scholarships for postgraduate study in the UK for citizens of Commonwealth countries, including South Africa. The scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.
  3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program: The Fulbright program offers scholarships for South Africans to study at U.S. universities for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance.
  4. Erasmus+ Programme: The Erasmus+ programme offers scholarships for South Africans to study in Europe for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.
  5. Australia Awards Scholarships: The Australian government offers scholarships for South Africans to study at Australian universities. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.

These are just a few examples of the many international scholarships available to South Africans. It is important to research the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for each scholarship program.