For many young South Africans, the path to higher education can seem like an uphill battle. But since 2005, the Thuthuka Bursary Programme has been breaking down those barriers. Established by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), this transformative initiative is aimed at helping African and Coloured students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursue accounting degrees—and ultimately change the face of the profession.
What Sets Thuthuka Apart?
Unlike typical bursaries that offer financial support alone, Thuthuka takes a well-rounded approach. It doesn’t just pay for your studies—it builds your future.
The bursary covers:
- Tuition fees
- Textbooks
- Accommodation and meals
- Residence fees
But it doesn’t stop there. Thuthuka also provides academic support through tutorials, workshops, and mentorship. It even includes emotional and life-skills development, helping students prepare not just for exams, but for the workplace too.
Who Can Apply for 2026?
If you’re considering applying for the 2026 intake, here’s what you need to know. You must:
- Be a South African citizen of African or Coloured descent
- Be in Grade 12, have completed Matric within the last two years, or be studying a CA-stream BCom degree
- Have earned at least 60% in Grade 11 Mathematics (not Maths Literacy or Technical Maths)
- Have a combined household income of R350,000 or less
- Have written or be planning to write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) before the August deadline
Successful applicants can study at several SAICA-accredited universities such as UJ, UCT, Wits, SU, UP, UWC, NMU, and others offering CA-stream programmes.
How to Apply
To apply for the Thuthuka Bursary Programme, candidates must complete the online application via the official Thuthuka portal. The application must include:
Click & Apply Thuthuka Bursary Applications 2026
- A signed consent form
- Certified copies of the applicant’s ID and their guardians’ IDs
- Proof of household income
- Academic transcripts (Grade 11 and 12, or university results if applicable)
- NBT results
- A provisional university acceptance letter if still in Matric
Beyond Financial Aid: Preparing Future Leaders
Once accepted into the programme, bursars gain access to a robust support structure that includes:
- Mentorship from lecturers and senior chartered accountants
- Individual Learning Plans focused on core subjects such as Financial Accounting, Auditing, Tax, and Management Accounting
- Vacation work and community service initiatives to build professional and civic experience
At some institutions like Stellenbosch University, Thuthuka students live in dedicated residences and participate in specialised development programmes rooted in values such as Honesty, Trustworthiness, Tenacity, Kindness, and Ambition.
A Mission That Matters
SAICA’s vision is clear: to increase the number of African and Coloured Chartered Accountants in South Africa. Of the 47,000+ registered CAs in the country, less than 9,000 come from these backgrounds. Thuthuka is leading the charge to shift that balance, one student at a time.
CONTACT THE BURSARY PROVIDER
For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact the SAICA directly:
Tel: 011 621 6600
Email: tbf@saica.co.za
Final Thoughts
The Thuthuka Bursary Programme isn’t just a financial boost—it’s a complete journey of growth, development, and opportunity. If you meet the criteria and are determined to pursue a career as a Chartered Accountant, this could be the stepping stone you’ve been looking for.
Closing Date: 31 August 2025