The Thuthuka Bursary Fund is a major transformation bursary in South Africa that supports students who want to become Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)).
The programme is run by South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and has provided funding to academically strong and financially needy African and Coloured students.
This bursary opens applications early each year for the following academic cycle.
Students who plan to study accounting or chartered accountancy programmes at SAICA‑accredited universities are encouraged to prepare their applications for 2027.
Thuthuka provides comprehensive funding that covers tuition fees, accommodation, books, meals, and living allowances.
About the Thuthuka Bursary
The Thuthuka bursary programme is a transformation initiative introduced by SAICA.
The goal of the programme is to increase the number of African and Coloured chartered accountants in South Africa.
It supports students throughout their undergraduate and postgraduate studies, and provides non‑financial support such as academic enrichment and mentoring.
Thuthuka recipients often receive additional support like life‑skills workshops, vacation work experience, and exposure to industry professionals.
Eligibility criteria for the 2027 Thuthuka bursary
Eligibility criteria vary slightly by university, but generally students must meet the following conditions.
- Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Applicants must be African or Coloured learners or students.
- Applicants must be in Grade 12 or have recently completed matric.
- Applicants must have strong academic results in mathematics, usually at least 60 percent or higher.
- Applicants must meet the financial need criteria, which is assessed using a means test similar to NSFAS.
- Applicants must plan to study an accredited accounting or chartered accountancy stream degree at a recognised university.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee funding because the programme is competitive.
What does the Thuthuka bursary cover?
The bursary provides financial support for many study‑related costs.
It aims to allow students to focus on their academic progress without being burdened by financial constraints.
Funding usually includes the following:
- Tuition fees for the full qualification.
- Accommodation at university residences or approved housing.
- Books and study materials.
- Meals and living allowances.
- Academic and personal support services such as mentoring.
Some Thuthuka bursary beneficiaries are also placed into structured training contracts after completing their degrees, depending on the programme details.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants are expected to upload several supporting documents during the online application process.
Commonly requested documents include:
- Certified copy of a South African ID document.
- Grade 11 final results (if currently in school).
- Latest Matric results or final Grade 12 results (if completed).
- University provisional acceptance or registration letter, if applicable.
- Parents’/guardians’ ID documents and proof of income.
- Signed Thuthuka Consent Form.
Students should ensure all documents are clear and certified before uploading them with the application.
How do students apply for the Thuthuka bursary?
Applications for the Thuthuka bursary are completed through the official online portal.
Students should follow these general steps:
- Visit the Thuthuka application portal.
- Create an applicant profile on the system.
- Complete the online application form carefully.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit the application before the official closing date.
Students should always apply through the official Thuthuka portal and avoid unofficial websites or social media links.
When does the Thuthuka bursary open and close for 2027?
The Thuthuka bursary application cycle opens in the first half of the year.
In recent years, the bursary application window has opened around March or April and closed on 31 August.
It is important for students to regularly check the official Thuthuka portal for exact dates each year.
Applying early helps ensure that students submit complete applications before the deadline.
Thuthuka Bursary Contact information
Students should use official contact channels when they need assistance with the Thuthuka bursary application.
- Thuthuka Bursary Fund Contact (SAICA)
Email: tbf@saica.co.za
Telephone: +27 11 621 6600
Official website (Thuthuka programme)
Students should always verify contact details on the official SAICA and Thuthuka portals before reaching out to ensure they use current information.
