KPMG Bursaries 2027: Chartered Accounting Students Can Apply for Funding

KPMG is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students pursuing a career in Chartered Accounting. This opportunity is for full-time students registered at SAICA-accredited universities.

Application Closing Date: 30 October 2026
Location: SAICA-accredited universities in South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: SAICA-accredited degree/qualification leading to CA(SA)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the KPMG Bursary Programme 2027

The KPMG Bursary Programme aims to support students working towards becoming Chartered Accountants South Africa (CA(SA)). This programme is designed for individuals enrolled in full-time studies at universities that are accredited by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). KPMG offers two types of bursaries: a Pure Merit Bursary and a Merit Bursary with Financial Need. To be considered for the bursary, applicants must first apply for a KPMG training contract.

About KPMG

KPMG is a global network of professional services firms. In South Africa, it provides audit, tax, and advisory services. The company is committed to developing future accounting professionals through its bursary and training contract programmes.

Fields of Study Covered

This bursary is specifically for students pursuing qualifications that will enable them to register as Chartered Accountants South Africa (CA(SA)). Eligible fields of study include:

• SAICA-accredited Chartered Accounting degrees.
• SAICA-accredited Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting.
• SAICA-accredited Accounting Sciences qualifications.
• Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA).
• Postgraduate Diplomas in Accounting.
• Honours or CTA programmes recognised by SAICA.
• Any other approved qualification leading towards CA(SA) registration.

It is important for applicants to confirm that both their university and their specific academic programme are accredited by SAICA.

Types of KPMG Bursaries

KPMG provides two distinct bursary options to cater to different applicant needs and achievements.

Pure Merit Bursary

This bursary is primarily awarded based on outstanding academic performance. It is intended for high-achieving students who may require financial assistance but not necessarily full funding for their studies. Applicants must demonstrate a consistently strong academic record from Matric through to their university studies.

Merit Bursary with Financial Need

This bursary considers both academic performance and the applicant’s household financial circumstances. It is for students who would struggle to continue their university education without financial support. Applicants must provide detailed evidence of their household income, expenses, and overall financial need.

KPMG will decide which bursary category is most suitable for each successful applicant.

Bursary Value and Duration

KPMG has the discretion to determine the specific value of the bursary, the expenses it will cover, and the duration of the award. The company also decides whether an applicant receives a Pure Merit or Financial Need bursary and if the funding will be renewed. Continued funding is dependent on maintaining satisfactory academic performance and the availability of bursary funds. The exact bursary amount was not specified.

Training Contract Requirement

A key requirement for bursary recipients is that they must enter into a KPMG training contract after graduation. This contract provides the essential practical workplace experience needed to qualify as a Chartered Accountant. Therefore, applicants must complete the KPMG training contract application before they can apply for the bursary.

General Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the KPMG Bursary Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Have successfully completed Matric.
• Be studying full-time.
• Be pursuing a SAICA-accredited Chartered Accounting qualification.
• Be registered at a SAICA-accredited university.
• Possess a strong academic record.
• Complete their qualification within the minimum prescribed period.
• Meet the specific academic requirements for their current year of study.
• Have applied for a KPMG training contract.
• Submit all required supporting documents.

Applicants should note that they cannot spread a one-year academic programme over two years unless officially permitted by KPMG.

Matric Academic Requirements

Applicants must have achieved strong results in their Matric examinations. The information provided indicates that applicants should have achieved “A” symbols in Matric, excluding Life Orientation. However, the exact number of “A” symbols required is not specified. Applicants should include their Matric certificate in their application and ensure their overall academic performance is competitive.

First-Year Academic Requirements

Students who have completed their first year of university must meet the following academic standards:

• A minimum overall average of 65%.
• A minimum mark of 70% for Accounting.

Second-Year Academic Requirements

Students who have completed their second year must achieve:

• A minimum overall average of 65%.
• A minimum mark of 65% for Accounting.

Third-Year Academic Requirements

Students who have completed their third year must achieve:

• A minimum overall average of 60%.
• A minimum mark of 60% for Accounting.

Honours or CTA Academic Requirements

For students who have completed an Honours or CTA year, the requirements are:

• 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.

Minimum Study-Period Requirement

Applicants must be able to complete their degree within the minimum number of years set by their university. For instance, a one-year CTA or postgraduate programme should not be extended over two academic years without KPMG’s approval. Academic delays, repeating subjects, or extended study periods could affect eligibility or continued funding.

Financial Need Requirements

Applicants applying for the Merit Bursary with Financial Need must demonstrate that they would face difficulties continuing their studies without financial assistance. KPMG may consider factors such as combined household income, the employment status of parents or guardians, the number of dependants, university fees, accommodation and living expenses, other financial support, and family financial obligations. Applicants must provide complete and accurate financial information.

Documents Required

All applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• A certified copy of their South African identity document.
• A certified copy of their Matric certificate.
• A certified copy of their most recent academic record or transcript.
• Proof of university registration.
• An updated university fee statement.
• A comprehensive CV.
• Any additional documents requested on the application portal.

Failure to submit all required supporting documents may lead to disqualification.

Additional Documents for Financial-Need Applicants

Applicants applying for the Merit Bursary with Financial Need must also submit specific financial documentation:

• Parents’ or guardians’ latest payslips, if employed.
• An affidavit if a parent or guardian is unemployed.
• Proof of pension or social grant income, if applicable.
• Three recent bank statements for parents or guardians.
• An affidavit if a parent or guardian does not have a bank account.
• An affidavit if parents or guardians are absent from the applicant’s life.
• A recent household utility bill.
• Any other evidence requested to assess household financial circumstances.

All submitted information must be truthful and supported by valid documents.

What to Include in Your CV

Your CV should clearly present the following information:

• Full personal and contact details.
• Matric results.
• University and qualification details.
• Current year of study.
• Academic averages.
• Accounting marks.
• Leadership experience.
• Volunteer or community activities.
• Vacation work or job-shadowing experience.
• Awards and academic achievements.
• Computer and communication skills.

Ensure your CV is professional, accurate, and focused on your Chartered Accounting aspirations.

How to Apply for the KPMG Bursary 2027

The application process involves three main steps.

Step 1: Apply for a KPMG Training Contract

First, applicants must apply for a KPMG training contract. After completing this application, you will receive a Taleo reference number from KPMG. This reference number is essential for your bursary application.

Step 2: Complete the Online Bursary Application

Click here to apply for the KPMG Bursary 2027

Applicants need to follow these steps on the KPMG student platform:

1. Register an account.
2. Log in to the application portal.
3. Select the 2027 bursary programme.
4. Enter the Taleo reference number from your training contract application.
5. Complete all compulsory sections of the application form.
6. Select the appropriate bursary category if prompted.
7. Upload all required supporting documents.
8. Review your application carefully before submitting.

Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents

Ensure all academic, registration, and financial documents are uploaded before submitting your application. Documents should be clear, readable, correctly certified where needed, current, and saved in an accepted format with appropriate labels. Double-check each uploaded document to confirm it is readable.

Bursary Application Closing Date

Applications close on 30 October 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. It is advisable to complete the training contract application early, as the Taleo reference number is required before the bursary application can be finalised.

Important Application Advice

Before submitting your application, please confirm the following:

• You are a South African citizen.
• You have completed Matric.
• You are studying full-time.
• Your qualification and university are SAICA-accredited.
• You meet the academic requirements for your current year of study.
• You can complete your qualification within the minimum period.
• You have applied for a KPMG training contract and have your Taleo reference number.
• Your academic record and fee statement are up-to-date.
• Your financial documents are attached if applicable.
• Your application is submitted before the 30 October 2026 deadline.

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