Aspiring Chartered Accountants, your journey towards a rewarding career can begin now! The Thuthuka Bursary programme has officially opened its applications for the 2027 academic year. This is a unique and comprehensive opportunity tailored for academically driven South African students with a dream of becoming a CA. If you meet specific academic and financial criteria, and are a Black African or Coloured student passionate about accounting, this bursary could be your stepping stone to success. Read on to discover if you qualify and how to submit your application before the closing date.
Understanding the Thuthuka Bursary Programme
The Thuthuka Bursary, offered by the Thuthuka Education and Upliftment Fund (TEUF), is exclusively designed for students committed to pursuing a career as a Chartered Accountant (CA). It distinguishes itself from other bursaries by adopting an integrated and holistic approach. This means it provides more than just financial aid; it offers a structured support system to ensure students not only excel academically but are also thoroughly prepared for the demands of the professional world.
The programme's comprehensive support includes academic enrichment activities like extra tutorials and study skills workshops, social and emotional support, essential work-readiness and life skills training, and invaluable mentoring and counselling from dedicated programme managers and experienced CAs. This integrated model is designed to significantly enhance student success rates and equip them with the confidence and skills needed to tackle workplace challenges.
Eligibility Criteria for Thuthuka Bursary Applicants
To be considered for this prestigious bursary, applicants must meet the following essential criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Identify as Black African or Coloured.
- Be currently in Grade 12, have completed Grade 12 no more than two years ago, or be a current university student enrolled in a CA-stream BCom degree.
- Have achieved a minimum of 60% (NSC achievement level 5 or above) in Mathematics in Grade 11. Note: Mathematics Literacy and Technical Maths learners are not eligible.
- Have applied, or be in the process of applying, for a BCom Accounting (CA-stream) degree at a university that offers the Thuthuka programme.
- Hail from a household with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less.
- Must have applied for and written the National Benchmark Tests (NBT).
Importantly, applicants must also apply for and write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) before the end of August 2026, or submit results if already completed. You can find more information about the NBTs here: www.nbt.ac.za.
Application Process: Key Dates and Requirements
The application period for the 2027 academic year is officially underway. Prospective applicants must carefully review all eligibility requirements and ensure their applications are submitted by the specified deadline.
Key Dates:
- Opening Date: March 31, 2026
- Closing Date: August 31, 2026, at 11:59:00 AM
Please be aware that submitting this application form does not automatically guarantee funding. It serves as an application only and is not an agreement or commitment for funding. Successful applicants will be required to sign a formal contract with both the Thuthuka Education and Upliftment Fund (TEUF) and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Furthermore, the Thuthuka Bursary cannot be used to settle existing loans or debts.
Comprehensive Support Offered by Thuthuka
The Thuthuka Bursary programme is distinguished by its extensive "wrap around" support system, meticulously designed to foster student success throughout their academic journey:
- Academic Support: This includes access to additional tutorials, study skills workshops, and various other academic enrichment programmes to ensure a strong grasp of the curriculum.
- Social and Emotional Support: Guidance and assistance to help students navigate the psychological and social challenges of university life.
- Work-Readiness and Life Skills Training: Practical training to equip students with essential professional and interpersonal skills vital for career success.
- Mentoring and Counselling: Students benefit from the guidance of dedicated programme managers and gain exposure to experienced Chartered Accountants and business leaders who serve as mentors.
This holistic model not only aims to improve academic outcomes but also ensures that Thuthuka students are well-rounded individuals, fully prepared to meet and overcome the challenges of the professional workplace.
Essential Supporting Documents for Your Application
To ensure your Thuthuka Bursary application is complete and considered, meticulously gather and upload all the required supporting documents. Incomplete applications will regrettably not be processed.
Mandatory Documents Include:
- A signed consent form (downloadable from the application portal).
- Your South African ID document.
- Your parent(s)’ or guardian(s)’ ID documents.
- Your parent(s)’ or guardian(s)’ recent salary slips (proof of income).
- Copies of ID documents for all individuals dependent on the family income.
- Your final Grade 11 results.
- Your final Grade 12 results (if you have already completed Grade 12).
- A full university transcript (if you are currently a university student).
- A university provisional acceptance letter (if you are still in high school and have applied for university).
Important Application Notes:
- All fields marked in red on the online application form are compulsory and must be completed.
- Your application is only considered submitted once you have pressed the "SUBMIT" button.
- Ensure the consent form is signed and all required documents are uploaded, otherwise your application will remain incomplete.
The Thuthuka Bursary represents a truly exceptional pathway for ambitious South African students aspiring to become Chartered Accountants. Its unique, holistic support system, coupled with financial assistance, positions it as a premier opportunity for those seeking to excel in the accounting profession. Ensure you meticulously review all eligibility criteria, gather every required document, and submit your comprehensive application well before the August 31, 2026, deadline.
Don't miss this invaluable chance to invest in your future and become part of a programme genuinely dedicated to your academic and professional success.
