Highlights
- PwC South Africa offers comprehensive bursaries to aspiring Chartered Accountants, supporting over 500 students annually.
- The bursary program provides financial aid (from 20% to 100% coverage for tuition, accommodation, and living allowances) and integrates professional training for CA qualification within PwC.
- PwC seeks academically strong candidates (e.g., minimum B-symbol for Maths and English in Matric, 75% average) who also possess key soft skills like interpersonal abilities, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork.
Johannesburg, South Africa – PwC South Africa continues its steadfast commitment to nurturing the nation’s future financial leaders by offering comprehensive bursaries to aspiring Chartered Accountants (CAs). The firm, a global leader in professional services, proudly supports over 500 students annually, providing a vital pathway for talented individuals to achieve their academic and professional aspirations. The bursary program is meticulously designed to offer varying levels of support, allowing students to focus intently on their studies and embark on a rewarding career journey with PwC.
Cultivating a Community of Solvers
At the heart of PwC’s initiative is the belief in growing its “community of solvers.” The bursary is not merely a financial aid but an investment in long-term career development. For successful applicants, learning extends far beyond graduation. Upon completing their studies, bursary recipients gain the invaluable opportunity to complete their professional training and achieve their CA qualification directly within PwC, seamlessly transitioning from academia to a world-class professional environment. This integrated approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped with practical experience and industry-leading knowledge, fostering a strong foundation for their careers.
Who is PwC Looking For? Eligibility and Academic Excellence
PwC seeks out individuals who demonstrate strong academic prowess and a genuine passion for the field of Chartered Accountancy. The bursary is open to a diverse range of students, including undergraduates, CTA/PGDA students, and those currently in their Grade 12 year. A critical aspect of the selection process involves assessing both academic performance and financial need, ensuring that support is directed where it can make the most significant impact.
The bursary awards are tiered, ranging from a 20% to a 100% award, calculated on a sliding scale based on academic results and financial necessity. Support can include a fixed academic achievement award with a book allowance, or a more comprehensive tuition and/or accommodation bursary covering a percentage of costs. For students facing high financial need, a once-off living allowance may also be provided, demonstrating PwC’s holistic approach to student support.
Essential Qualities: Beyond Academics
While academic excellence is a cornerstone, PwC emphasizes that successful candidates possess a broader set of skills crucial for a thriving career in professional services. The firm actively seeks individuals who embody:
- Good Interpersonal Skills: The ability to collaborate effectively and build strong relationships within teams and with clients.
- Problem-Solving Aptitude: A proactive approach to assessing situations and developing independent solutions.
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens with a valid ID number.
- Leadership Potential: The capacity to drive initiatives, present ideas clearly, and inspire others.
- Teamwork Ethic: A deep understanding of the importance of collective effort and working harmoniously with colleagues.
Rigorous Academic Requirements
Specific academic criteria are in place to ensure that bursary recipients are well-prepared for the demanding CA qualification:
For Matriculants:
- A strong commitment to studying full-time towards a Chartered Accountancy qualification at a SAICA-accredited institution.
- A minimum of a B-symbol for Mathematics and English (first or second language).
- An overall average of 75% in matric. Maths Literacy is not considered.
For University Students:
- Must be studying full-time towards a CA qualification at a SAICA-accredited institution.
- First and second-year undergraduate students must pass all courses with an average of at least 70%.
- Third and fourth-year undergraduate students must pass all courses with an average of at least 65% and qualify for honours according to their university’s requirements.
- PwC does not offer bursaries to students intending to pursue a bridging course for SAICA-accredited qualifications.
Application Process and Key Dates
Prospective applicants should ensure they have the following documents ready before commencing their application: a certified ID, a certified Matric certificate, an official university transcript (for university students), and for each parent/guardian, three payslips or official bank statements, or an affidavit in the case of unemployment.
The bursary application window typically opens on July 1st and closes on August 31st each year. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the PwC South Africa careers portal for detailed information and to submit their applications within this period.
By investing in these bursaries, PwC South Africa not only secures its own talent pipeline but also plays a pivotal role in shaping a skilled and dynamic future for the South African economy.
For more information and to apply, visit the PwC Learners Bursaries page.
