KPMG Bursaries
KPMG Bursaries 2027: Chartered Accounting Students Can Apply for Funding
Role Overview
KPMG invites qualifying South African students to apply for the KPMG Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 30 October 2026
Study Location: SAICA-accredited universities in South Africa
KPMG has opened applications for its 2027 bursary programme for students pursuing qualifications leading to registration as Chartered Accountants South Africa, commonly referred to as CAs(SA).
The bursary supports students registered for full-time Chartered Accounting studies at universities and programmes accredited by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants.
KPMG offers two bursary categories:
Merit Bursary with Financial Need
Applicants must first apply for a KPMG training contract before completing the bursary application.
Bursary provider: KPMGProgramme: KPMG Bursary Programme 2027Supported field: Chartered AccountingProfessional designation: CA(SA)Study mode: Full-timeInstitution requirement: SAICA-accredited universityBursary categories: Pure Merit and Merit with Financial NeedClosing date: 30 October 2026Application method: Online
The KPMG bursary is available for students pursuing qualifications that lead to the Chartered Accountant South Africa designation.
Applicants must be registered for a:
SAICA-accredited Chartered Accounting degree.
SAICA-accredited Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting.
SAICA-accredited Accounting Sciences qualification.
Certificate in the Theory of Accounting.
Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting.
Honours or CTA programme recognised by SAICA.
Another approved qualification leading towards CA(SA) registration.
Applicants should confirm that both their university and specific academic programme are accredited by SAICA.
KPMG offers two bursary options based on academic performance and financial circumstances.
The Pure Merit Bursary is awarded primarily according to academic performance.
It is intended for high-performing students who require financial assistance but may not need full funding.
Applicants for this category must demonstrate a consistently strong academic record throughout Matric and university.
The Merit Bursary with Financial Need considers:
Household financial circumstances.
The applicant’s ability to attend university without financial support.
Applicants must provide detailed evidence of household income, expenses and financial need.
KPMG will determine which bursary category is most appropriate for each successful applicant.
KPMG reserves the right to determine:
The expenses that will be funded.
The length of the bursary award.
Whether an applicant receives a Pure Merit or Financial Need bursary.
Whether funding will be renewed.
Continued funding will depend on satisfactory academic performance and the availability of bursary funds.
The exact bursary amount was not specified in the information provided.
Successful bursary recipients will be required to enter into a KPMG training contract after graduation.
The training contract provides the practical workplace experience required as part of the pathway towards qualifying as a Chartered Accountant.
Applicants must therefore complete the KPMG training-contract application before applying for the bursary.
Be pursuing a SAICA-accredited Chartered Accounting qualification.
Be registered at a SAICA-accredited university.
Complete their qualification within the minimum prescribed period.
Meet the academic requirements for their current year of study.
Apply for a KPMG training contract.
Submit all required supporting documents.
Applicants may not divide a one-year academic programme across two years unless officially permitted by KPMG.
Applicants must have achieved strong Matric results.
The supplied bursary information states that applicants must have achieved “A” symbols in Matric, excluding Life Orientation. However, it does not specify the exact number of A symbols required.
Applicants should ensure that their Matric certificate is included in the application and that their overall academic performance is competitive.
Students who have completed their first year must have achieved:
A minimum overall average of 65%.
A minimum mark of 70% for Accounting.
Students who have completed their second year must have achieved:
A minimum mark of 65% for Accounting.
Students who have completed their third year must have achieved:
A minimum overall average of 60%.
A minimum mark of 60% for Accounting.
Students who have completed an Honours or CTA year must have achieved:
A minimum overall average of 50%.
A minimum mark of 55% for Accounting.
Applicants must also remain eligible to progress to the next academic level.
Applicants must be able to complete their degree within the minimum number of years prescribed by the university.
For example, a one-year CTA or postgraduate programme should not be spread over two academic years unless KPMG has approved the arrangement.
Academic delays, repeated subjects or extended study periods may af
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• Applicants must:
• Be South African citizens.
• Have completed Matric.
• Be studying full-time.
• Be pursuing a SAICA-accredited Chartered Accounting qualification.
• Be registered at a SAICA-accredited university.
• Have a strong academic record.
• Complete their qualification within the minimum prescribed period.
• Meet the academic requirements for their current year of study.
• Apply for a KPMG training contract.
• Submit all required supporting documents.
• Applicants may not divide a one-year academic programme across two years unless officially permitted by KPMG.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
The application process consists of three main steps.
About KPMG Bursaries
This bursary is offered by KPMG Bursaries.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from KPMG Bursaries can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 30 October 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Yes, this opportunity requires a matric certificate.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 30 October 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
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Application Instructions
See the How to Apply section above for email or postal details.
View Application Instructions