For South African students who dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), the PwC Bursary Programme for 2027 presents an excellent opportunity to receive financial support while preparing for one of the country’s most respected professions.
PwC is one of the world’s leading professional services firms, and its bursary programme is designed to identify talented students with strong academic performance and leadership potential. Successful applicants not only receive financial assistance but also gain access to a pathway that could lead to the prestigious PwC Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) Training Programme after completing their studies.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
If you’re currently in Grade 12 or already studying towards a SAICA-accredited accounting qualification, here’s everything you need to know before applying.
Quick Overview
| Opportunity | PwC Bursary Programme 2027 |
| Organisation | PwC South Africa |
| Closing Date | 31 August 2026 |
| Opportunity Type | Bursary |
| Reference Number | PWC260312-3 |
| Contract Type | Fixed Term |
| Location | South Africa (Multiple Offices) |
| Fields Supported | Chartered Accounting (CA(SA)) pathway |
| Citizenship | South African Citizen or Permanent Resident |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 12 or studying a SAICA-accredited Accounting qualification |
What is the PwC Bursary Programme?
The PwC Bursary Programme is designed to support students who plan to qualify as Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)).
The bursary assists academically strong students who are committed to studying a SAICA-accredited accounting degree and eventually completing their articles through the PwC Chartered Accounting Training Programme.
Rather than simply funding university studies, the programme aims to develop future business leaders who will contribute to the accounting profession and the broader South African economy.
Why Becoming a Chartered Accountant is a Great Career Choice
A Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) is among the most respected professional qualifications in South Africa.
Qualified CAs work in numerous industries including:
- Banking
- Investment firms
- Government
- Mining
- Healthcare
- Technology
- Retail
- Entrepreneurship
- International corporations
Career opportunities include:
- Financial Accountant
- Auditor
- Tax Consultant
- Finance Manager
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
- Risk Consultant
- Business Advisor
- Investment Analyst
- Corporate Finance Specialist
Many CEOs of South Africa’s largest companies started their careers as Chartered Accountants.
Who Should Apply?
The bursary is ideal for:
- Grade 12 learners intending to study Accounting
- First-year Accounting students
- Second-year Accounting students
- Third-year Accounting students
- Fourth-year students completing CTA or equivalent
- Students committed to becoming CA(SA)s
Applicants must intend to complete the full SAICA qualification route.
PwC Bursary Programme Requirements
PwC has clearly stated that applicants should not apply unless they meet the minimum requirements.
Applicants must:
- Intend becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA))
- Be studying or intending to study a SAICA-accredited Accounting qualification
- Study at a SAICA-accredited university
- Hold Grade 12 with university exemption
- Have university acceptance
- Have Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Have English as a subject
- Achieve a B symbol for Mathematics and English
- Obtain an average of at least 75% in Grade 12
- Meet university average requirements depending on study level
- Be proficient in English
- Have excellent communication skills
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
University Academic Requirements
PwC expects strong academic performance throughout your studies.
Grade 12
Applicants should have:
- University exemption
- Mathematics
- English
- B Symbol for both Mathematics and English
- Overall average of 75%
First-Year Students
- Overall university average of 70%
Second-Year Students
- Overall average of 70%
Third-Year Students
- Overall average of 65%
Fourth-Year Students
- Overall average of 65%
Important Note About Bridging Courses
PwC has specifically indicated that the bursary does not cover students who need to complete a bridging programme before entering postgraduate Chartered Accounting studies.
Applicants should therefore already meet the academic requirements needed to continue along the standard SAICA pathway.
The PwC Chartered Accounting Training Programme
Receiving the bursary is only one step.
The long-term objective is entry into PwC’s Chartered Accounting Training Programme after completing:
- Your Honours degree, or
- Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA)
During articles, trainees gain practical experience in:
- External audit
- Financial reporting
- Taxation
- Risk management
- Business advisory
- Client engagement
- Professional ethics
- Emerging technologies
This practical training is required for registration as a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)).
Skills That PwC Looks For
Besides academic excellence, PwC values candidates who demonstrate:
- Leadership potential
- Strong communication skills
- Teamwork
- Integrity
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving ability
- Adaptability
- Curiosity
- Professionalism
- Willingness to learn
These qualities often distinguish successful applicants.
Benefits of the PwC Bursary
Successful bursary recipients may benefit from:
- Financial support for eligible studies
- Access to one of South Africa’s top employers
- Professional development opportunities
- Mentorship
- Networking opportunities
- Exposure to experienced professionals
- Potential pathway into PwC’s CA(SA) Training Programme
- Career development within a global organisation
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Competition for PwC bursaries is extremely high.
To improve your chances:
- Ensure your academic transcripts are up to date.
- Double-check that you meet the required averages.
- Prepare certified copies of all required documents.
- Verify that your intended qualification is SAICA accredited.
- Apply before the closing date.
- Ensure all information submitted is accurate.
Avoid submitting incomplete applications.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications through PwC’s official careers portal before the closing date here
Before submitting your application, ensure that you have:
- Certified copies of academic results
- Grade 12 results (where applicable)
- University transcripts
- South African ID or proof of permanent residency
- Any additional supporting documentation requested during the application process
Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Late applications are unlikely to be considered.
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Edupstairs Advice
If becoming a Chartered Accountant is your long-term goal, the PwC Bursary Programme is one of the strongest opportunities available in South Africa. Beyond financial assistance, it offers access to a globally recognised firm, professional mentorship and a structured route toward qualifying as a CA(SA).
Start preparing your documents well before the closing date, maintain strong academic performance and ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements before applying. Because competition is intense, submitting a complete, accurate and timely application can make a significant difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for the PwC Bursary Programme?
South African citizens or permanent residents who intend to become Chartered Accountants through a SAICA-accredited university.
Can I apply if I take Mathematical Literacy?
No. PwC specifically requires Mathematics. Mathematical Literacy does not qualify.
What university marks do I need?
- Grade 12: 75% average
- First and Second Year: 70% average
- Third and Fourth Year: 65% average
Does PwC fund bridging courses?
No.
Is this bursary only for Accounting students?
Yes. The bursary is specifically intended for students following the Chartered Accounting (CA(SA)) qualification route.
Where can bursary recipients eventually work?
PwC has offices across South Africa, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein, Kimberley, East London, Gqeberha, Pietermaritzburg, Stellenbosch, Worcester, Mahikeng, Nelspruit and Emalahleni.
When do applications close?
Applications close on 31 August 2026.
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Disclaimer
This article is intended to provide an overview of the PwC Bursary Programme for 2027 based on the published opportunity information. Applicants should always refer to the official PwC careers portal for the latest application requirements, supporting documents and terms and conditions before submitting an application.
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