Hey future financial wizards! Ready to fast-track your journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant? The awesome Old Mutual Accounting Bursary for 2026 is here to make that dream a reality! Let’s dive in and see how this incredible opportunity can change your life.
The Old Mutual Accounting Bursary is designed for ambitious South African students who want to pursue a career in Chartered Accounting (CA). Old Mutual, a giant in the financial services sector, wants to support bright young minds like yours to get top-notch education at some of the best universities in the country. This bursary isn’t just about covering costs; it’s your stepping stone into a dynamic career with one of SA’s leading companies.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for this amazing bursary, make sure you tick all these boxes:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You need to be currently in Matric OR have already completed Matric. (No prior post-Matric qualifications, please!)
- You must be studying, or planning to study, an undergraduate Accounting Science (Chartered Accounting Stream) qualification.
- Your chosen university must be one of these top institutions: University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, University of the Western Cape, University of Johannesburg, University of Pretoria, University of the Witwatersrand, University of Free State, University of Fort Hare, University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of South Africa (UNISA), Rhodes University, North West University, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, or Milpark Business School.
- You need to have rocked your Matric with a minimum of 70% for Mathematics (not Maths Literacy!).
- English grades are important too: at least 60% for English Home Language or 70% for English First Additional Language in Matric.
- For all your other Matric subjects, aim for a minimum of 70%.
- You must be committed to joining the Old Mutual Chartered Accounting Training (OMCAT) Programme and working for Old Mutual after you graduate.
- Old Mutual gives preference to students from under-represented groups, including those with disabilities, and those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds or who show financial need.
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is pretty comprehensive, aiming to remove financial stress so you can focus on your studies:
- Full Tuition Fees: No need to worry about those university bills!
- Study Materials: Get all the books and resources you need.
- Meals: Covered so you can stay fueled for your studies.
- Accommodation: Live comfortably in university residence.
- Return Flights Home: If you’re studying far from your hometown, they’ve got your travel covered!
But wait, there’s more! You’ll also get the chance to gain real-world experience through vacation work during holidays. Plus, you’ll receive support for your entire degree, and if you truly shine with excellent grades, there are even more incentives in store for you. This is your chance to get broad exposure in all aspects of finance, as prescribed by SAICA, including accounting, external reporting, management decision-making, financial management, risk, governance, and taxation.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump in? Here’s how to apply:
- Head over to the official Old Mutual application portal: Old Mutual Accounting Bursary Application 2026
- You’ll need to create an account first, then you can log in to start your application.
- Make sure you submit clear, certified copies of these documents with your online application. Missing anything could mean your application isn’t considered, so double-check!
- Your ID document (certified copy).
- Your latest Matric results (if you’re currently in Matric).
- Your Matric certificate (if you’ve already completed Matric).
- Proof of acceptance or conditional acceptance from your university (if you have it).
- Your full academic transcript (if you are currently studying at university).
- Your completed Bursary Motivation Form.
- A one-page Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Selection Process: If you’re shortlisted, you’ll hear from Old Mutual by 30 November 2025 and be invited to complete psychometric assessments. Finalists will then be invited to a selection day for interviews. Keep an eye on your inbox!
The closing date for applications is 30 September 2025 at 23:59. Don’t leave it to the last minute – get your application in before then to make sure it’s considered!
If this sounds like the right bursary for you, don’t wait — apply now and explore more bursaries on Bursaries Room!