EY South Africa has officially opened its bursary applications for the 2027 academic year, targeting students who are pursuing a career as Chartered Accountants. This initiative is designed to support academic journeys for future finance professionals in the country. The bursary scheme aims to alleviate the financial burden of tertiary education for deserving students while securing a pipeline of talent for the firm. By offering these opportunities, EY South Africa continues to invest in the local accounting sector, helping students gain the necessary qualifications to enter the professional services industry. The application process is now open to eligible South African students.
These bursaries typically cover tuition fees, accommodation, and textbook costs for students studying towards a SAICA-accredited undergraduate or postgraduate qualification. Recipients of the EY bursary are generally expected to enter into a training contract with the firm upon completing their studies, which provides a direct pathway into the employment market. This structured transition from university to a professional working environment is highly valued in the South African job market. Eligible candidates are encouraged to submit their applications early to ensure they are considered for this prestigious funding and career development opportunity.
What this means for SA job seekers
1. Plan your academic and career path early to secure corporate funding. Securing a bursary for future academic years requires early preparation and a clear understanding of the requirements set by major professional services firms. South African students should focus on maintaining high academic standards, particularly in core subjects like mathematics and accounting, as these are critical benchmarks for corporate sponsors. Additionally, researching the specific SAICA-accredited programmes at your chosen university ensures that your studies align with the bursary’s criteria. By aligning your academic choices with industry demands early on, you position yourself as a strong candidate for corporate sponsorships that not only fund your education but also guarantee a structured internship or training contract upon graduation.
2. Leverage bursary opportunities as a direct entry point into the formal job market. Many corporate bursaries in South Africa, especially in the financial and accounting sectors, come with work-back agreements or training contracts. This means that securing a bursary is not just about financial aid; it is effectively securing your first professional job years before you graduate. Job seekers and students should view these applications as early-stage job interviews. Tailor your application to demonstrate your leadership potential, ethical standards, and commitment to the profession. Securing a training contract with a reputable firm like EY ensures you gain high-quality, practical experience that is highly respected by employers nationwide, significantly boosting your long-term career prospects.
3. Build a professional profile that stands out in highly competitive application pools. Because bursaries from top-tier firms are highly sought after, applicants must go beyond basic academic requirements to stand out. You should actively participate in extracurricular activities, community service, or leadership roles at your school or university to build a well-rounded profile. When writing your application essays or preparing for interviews, clearly articulate your career goals and explain how the bursary will help you contribute to the broader South African economy. Developing a professional CV early and practicing your interview skills will give you a distinct advantage over other candidates competing for these limited and highly valuable financial awards.
While planning your academic future, you can also explore immediate employment opportunities across various sectors. If you are ready to enter the workforce, browse our latest listings in finance and accounting jobs or search for general vacancies on our JobsJunction job board.
Source: Global South Opportunities