KPMG, one of the world’s leading professional services firms, is committed to supporting the next generation of Chartered Accountants in South Africa. Through the KPMG Bursary Programme for 2026, the firm is investing in promising university students who show exceptional academic ability and require financial assistance to pursue their studies.
For ambitious students looking to build a career in auditing, tax, and advisory, this bursary is a golden opportunity to gain not only financial support but also an entry point into one of the most respected global networks.
How to Apply
To apply for the KPMG Bursary, applicants must first apply for a training contract (learnership) with KPMG.
- If you do not yet have a training contract: You must apply for one before proceeding with your bursary application. Apply here
- If you already have a training contract (or have applied and received a Taleo reference number): You can then proceed with the bursary application. Apply here
This ensures that bursary recipients are aligned with KPMG’s professional pipeline and SAICA-accredited training process.
Types of KPMG Bursaries
KPMG offers two bursary options tailored to the needs of students:
- Pure Merit Bursary – Based solely on academic performance.
- Merit Bursary with Financial Need – Based on strong academic results, but also considers students who require significant financial assistance beyond tuition, such as accommodation, meals, or other study-related costs.
The allocation of bursaries is at the sole discretion of KPMG, based on both your academic performance and financial circumstances.
Minimum Academic Requirements
To be considered, students must be pursuing a full-time SAICA-recognised degree and complete their qualification within the minimum prescribed period. Meeting the following academic results is compulsory:
- Matric (Grade 12): Minimum of 4 A’s (excluding Life Orientation).
- First Year: 65% average overall and 70% in Accounting.
- Second Year: 65% average overall and 65% in Accounting.
- Third Year: 60% average overall and 60% in Accounting.
- Honours/CTA: 50% average overall and 55% in Accounting.
Supporting Documentation
Applicants are required to upload specific documents depending on the bursary option applied for.
For Pure Merit Bursary:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Matric certificate
- Latest academic record and proof of registration
- Updated fee statement
For Merit Bursary with Financial Need (in addition to the above):
- Payslips of parents/guardians (or affidavit if unemployed)
- Three months’ bank statements of parents/guardians (or affidavit if none)
- Utility bill (water, electricity, cellphone, etc.)
- Death certificates if parents/guardians are deceased
- Affidavit if parents/guardians are absent from the applicant’s life
Important Conditions
- The bursary award and the amount allocated are at KPMG’s discretion and may vary each year based on academic progress and available funding.
- Renewal of the bursary is subject to continued satisfactory performance.
- The bursary contract is tied to a KPMG learnership (training contract), which begins after the completion of studies at a SAICA-accredited university (CTA/GDA level).
Contact Details
For queries regarding the bursary application process, applicants may contact KPMG at:
Email: Bursarysupport@kpmg.co.za
Our Conclusion
By securing the KPMG Bursary Programme 2026, students are not only assured of financial relief but also access to mentorship, experiential learning, and career development at one of the world’s most prestigious firms. This opportunity is a stepping stone to becoming a Chartered Accountant while being part of a global network that values excellence, innovation, and integrity.
CLOSING DATE: 30 OCTOBER 2025
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