KPMG Bursaries 2027: Chartered Accounting Students Can Apply for Funding

KPMG is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students pursuing Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) qualifications. This opportunity is for full-time students at SAICA-accredited universities. The application closing date is 30 October 2026.

Application Closing Date: 30 October 2026
Location: SAICA-accredited universities in South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: SAICA-accredited Chartered Accounting qualification

About the KPMG Bursary Programme 2027

The KPMG Bursary Programme aims to support students working towards becoming Chartered Accountants in South Africa. This programme is designed for individuals studying full-time 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 this bursary, applicants must first apply for a KPMG training contract. The bursary application can only be completed after securing a reference number from the training contract application. This ensures that candidates are on the correct path for a career with KPMG.

About KPMG

KPMG is a global network of professional services firms. It provides audit, tax, and advisory services to various clients. The company is committed to developing talent within the accounting sector.

Through its bursary programme, KPMG helps nurture future accounting professionals. These individuals may go on to complete their required training contracts with KPMG after graduation, contributing to the firm’s expertise.

Fields of Study Covered

The KPMG bursary is open to students pursuing qualifications that lead to the Chartered Accountant South Africa (CA(SA)) designation. This includes degrees and certificates accredited by SAICA.

Specific qualifications supported are:

• 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.
• Other approved qualifications leading to 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. These are the Pure Merit Bursary and the Merit Bursary with Financial Need. The company will decide which category is most suitable for each successful applicant.

Pure Merit Bursary

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

Merit Bursary with Financial Need

This bursary considers both academic performance and the applicant’s financial situation. It is for students who demonstrate a genuine need for financial assistance to continue their university education. Applicants must provide detailed information about their household income, expenses, and overall financial circumstances.

Bursary Value and Duration

KPMG determines the specific value of the bursary award, which expenses will be covered, and the duration of the funding. The company also decides whether an applicant receives the Pure Merit or Financial Need bursary. Continued funding is dependent on maintaining satisfactory academic performance and the availability of bursary funds. The exact amount of the bursary was not specified.

Training Contract Requirement

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

General Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the KPMG Bursary Programme, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Have successfully completed Matric.
• Be enrolled in full-time studies.
• 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 academic requirements for their current year of study.
• Have applied for a KPMG training contract.
• Submit all required supporting documents.

Matric Academic Requirements

Strong Matric results are essential for applicants. The information indicates that “A” symbols in Matric, excluding Life Orientation, are required. While the exact number of “A” symbols needed is not specified, applicants should ensure their Matric certificate reflects a competitive academic performance.

First-Year Academic Requirements

Students who have completed their first year of university must have achieved:

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

Second-Year Academic Requirements

For students who have completed their second year, the requirements are:

• 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

Applicants who have completed an Honours or CTA year need to have achieved:

• A minimum overall average of 50%.
• A minimum mark of 55% for Accounting.

All applicants must remain eligible to progress to the next academic level.

Financial Need Requirements

Applicants applying for the Merit Bursary with Financial Need must prove they would struggle to continue their studies without financial support. KPMG may consider factors such as combined household income, parents’ or guardians’ employment status, number of dependants, university fees, living expenses, and other 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.

Missing documents can lead to disqualification.

Additional Documents for Financial-Need Applicants

If applying for the Merit Bursary with Financial Need, applicants also need to submit:

• 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 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 be professional and focused on your academic and career aspirations. Include:

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

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, make sure to save the Taleo reference number provided by KPMG, as it is needed for the bursary application.

Step 2: Complete the Online Bursary Application

Click here to apply for the KPMG Bursary 2027

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 your Taleo reference number from the training contract application.
5. Fill in all compulsory sections.
6. Choose 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 correctly before submitting. Documents should be clear, readable, certified where necessary, and saved in an accepted format. Double-check each uploaded document to confirm it is legible.

Closing Date

Applications close on 30 October 2026. Late or incomplete applications will likely not be considered. It is advisable to complete the training contract application early to obtain the necessary reference number for the bursary application.

Important Application Advice

Before submitting your application, 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 applying for financial need.
• Your application is submitted before the 30 October 2026 deadline.

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