Studying toward a Chartered Accounting qualification can lead to strong career opportunities in finance, auditing, taxation, business management, and corporate leadership. However, university education costs continue to rise in South Africa, making bursaries increasingly important for students who want to pursue professional careers.
The Old Mutual Accounting Bursary South Africa 2027 gives academically talented students the opportunity to study Accounting Science with major financial support from one of the country’s leading financial services companies.
This bursary programme is designed for students who want to become Chartered Accountants and eventually join Old Mutual’s Chartered Accounting Training Programme. In addition to covering study-related expenses, the programme also offers career development opportunities, workplace exposure, and guaranteed employment after graduation for successful candidates.
For learners who enjoy Mathematics, business, finance, and analytical problem-solving, understanding how this bursary works could become an important step toward building a successful long-term career.
What You Should Know First
The Old Mutual Accounting Bursary South Africa 2027 is a financial support programme for students studying Accounting Science in the Chartered Accounting stream at selected South African universities.
👉 Key point: The bursary does not only help pay for university studies. It also provides vacation work opportunities, professional development exposure, and potential employment after graduation.
Because Chartered Accounting is a highly competitive profession, the bursary mainly targets students with strong academic performance and clear career goals.
Understanding the Old Mutual Accounting Bursary Programme
The bursary programme was created to help develop skilled accounting professionals in South Africa while improving access to higher education for deserving students.
Old Mutual invests in students who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities, and commitment to becoming Chartered Accountants.
The programme also helps the company develop future finance professionals who may eventually contribute to Old Mutual’s financial operations and leadership structures.
About Old Mutual
Old Mutual is one of Southern Africa’s largest and most established financial services companies.
The organisation provides services in areas such as:
- Insurance
- Investments
- Financial planning
- Savings solutions
- Retirement planning
- Asset management
- Business insurance
- Corporate financial services
Because financial reporting and risk management are critical in these industries, Chartered Accountants play a major role inside the company.
What Does a Career in Accounting Involve?
Many students hear the term “Chartered Accountant” without fully understanding what the profession involves.
A Chartered Accountant is a highly trained finance professional who helps businesses manage money, analyse financial performance, comply with regulations, and make strategic decisions.
Main Responsibilities of Chartered Accountants
Accounting professionals often work in:
- Banks
- Audit firms
- Insurance companies
- Investment firms
- Government departments
- Large corporations
- Consulting firms
Their work may include:
- Preparing financial reports
- Conducting audits
- Analysing business performance
- Managing budgets
- Reviewing financial risk
- Advising companies on financial decisions
- Tax planning and compliance
- Corporate governance support
Why Accounting Careers Remain Popular
Accounting continues to be one of the most respected professional fields because every organisation depends on financial management.
Strong accounting professionals help businesses:
- Reduce financial risk
- Improve efficiency
- Stay legally compliant
- Make informed business decisions
This creates strong long-term demand for skilled Chartered Accountants in South Africa and internationally.
What the Old Mutual Accounting Bursary Covers
One of the biggest advantages of the Old Mutual Accounting Bursary South Africa 2027 is the extensive financial support offered to successful applicants.
Expenses Covered
The bursary may provide funding for:
✅ Tuition fees
✅ Study materials
✅ Accommodation in residence
✅ Meals
✅ Return flights home for students studying away from home
This level of support can significantly reduce financial pressure on students and their families.
Long-Term Study Support
Bursary recipients may receive support throughout the full duration of their degree programme, provided they continue meeting academic requirements.
Students who perform exceptionally well academically may also qualify for additional incentives and rewards.
Additional Opportunities Offered by the Programme
Unlike some bursaries that only provide financial assistance, the Old Mutual programme also focuses heavily on professional development.
Vacation Work Opportunities
Students may participate in vacation work during university holidays.
This allows bursary recipients to gain:
- Real workplace experience
- Exposure to financial systems
- Professional networking opportunities
- Better understanding of corporate finance environments
Guaranteed Employment After Graduation
One of the most attractive benefits of the programme is the possibility of guaranteed employment after graduation.
Successful students may enter the:
- Old Mutual Chartered Accounting Training (OMCAT) Programme
This gives graduates practical professional training required for Chartered Accounting development.
Exposure Across Multiple Finance Areas
Students and trainees may receive experience in:
- Accounting and reporting
- Financial management
- Risk management
- Governance
- Taxation
- Management decision-making
- Business control systems
This broad exposure helps graduates build well-rounded professional skills.
Universities Supported by the Bursary
The bursary programme supports Accounting Science studies at selected institutions across South Africa.
Approved Universities
Funding is available for students studying at:
- University of Cape Town
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
- University of Johannesburg
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of the Free State
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- University of South Africa
- University of the Western Cape
- Nelson Mandela University
- Rhodes University
- University of Fort Hare
- North-West University
- Milpark Business School
Students should always verify programme accreditation and admission requirements directly with the university.
Eligibility Requirements for the Old Mutual Accounting Bursary
The programme has strict academic and admission requirements because Chartered Accounting is academically demanding.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- Not have completed a post-Matric qualification
- Study or intend to study Accounting Science in the Chartered Accounting stream
- Study or apply to one of the approved institutions
Academic Requirements
Applicants must achieve:
- Minimum 70% for Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Minimum 60% for English Home Language OR 70% for English First Additional Language
- Minimum 70% for all other subjects
Additional Selection Considerations
Preference may be given to:
- Students from disadvantaged backgrounds
- Students demonstrating financial need
- Candidates from under-represented designated groups
- Students with disabilities
Applicants must also commit to joining the OMCAT Programme and working for Old Mutual after graduation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
The application process is completed online and requires careful preparation.
Step 1: Create an Online Account
Applicants must first register an account on the Old Mutual bursary or careers portal.
Old Mutual Accounting Bursary Application 2027
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Students will need to provide:
- Personal information
- Academic details
- University application information
- Career goals and motivation
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload all required documents clearly and correctly.
Required Documents
Students generally need:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Latest Matric results or final Matric certificate
- Proof of university acceptance or conditional acceptance
- Academic transcript (if already studying)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- NBT statement (if applicable)
- Completed bursary motivation form
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Step 4: Prepare for Assessments
Shortlisted students may be invited to complete psychometric assessments and interviews.
These assessments help evaluate:
- Problem-solving ability
- Communication skills
- Professional potential
- Behavioural strengths
Understanding the Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple competitive stages.
Shortlisting Phase
Shortlisted candidates are generally contacted before mid-July 2026.
Applicants who do not receive feedback by then are usually considered unsuccessful.
Final Selection Day
Finalists may attend interviews and assessments during a formal selection day.
The final bursary offer may depend on:
- Final Matric results
- University acceptance confirmation
- Interview performance
- Overall suitability for the programme
Why Mathematics Matters in Accounting
Some students are surprised by the importance of Mathematics in accounting bursaries.
Although accounting is not identical to advanced mathematics, strong numerical reasoning is essential.
Accounting professionals regularly work with:
- Financial calculations
- Budgets
- Forecasting
- Data analysis
- Risk evaluation
Strong Mathematics marks often indicate analytical thinking and problem-solving ability.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
Many students unintentionally weaken their applications through avoidable errors.
Submitting Incomplete Documents
Missing paperwork may result in automatic rejection.
Always double-check:
- Certified ID copies
- Academic records
- Proof of university application
- Motivation forms
Applying Too Late
Waiting until the final deadline day increases the risk of technical issues or rushed submissions.
Weak Motivation Statements
Some applicants focus only on marks while neglecting the motivation section.
Strong motivation statements explain:
- Why you want to become a Chartered Accountant
- Your career goals
- Your financial need
- Why you are committed to the profession
Common Misunderstandings About Old Mutual Accounting Bursary South Africa 2027
There are several misconceptions about this bursary programme.
“Only university students can apply”
Incorrect.
Current Matric learners may also apply if they meet the academic requirements.
“The bursary only covers tuition fees”
False.
The bursary may also cover accommodation, meals, study materials, and travel support.
“Accounting is only about bookkeeping”
Not true.
Modern accounting includes financial strategy, auditing, taxation, governance, consulting, and risk management.
“Guaranteed employment means no hard work”
Incorrect.
Students must still maintain strong academic performance and complete professional training requirements.
Important Closing Date Information
The closing date for the Old Mutual Accounting Bursary South Africa 2027 is:
📅 30 May 2026 at 23:59
Late applications are generally not accepted.
See also: Northlink College WIL Internships 2026: A Complete Guide for NCV Graduates
See also: Digby Wells Environmental Bursaries 2027: A Complete Guide for South African Students
How to Contact the Bursary Provider
Students with questions may contact the Old Mutual Early Careers team.
📧 Email: earlycareers@oldmutual.com
Applicants should avoid contacting the company after applications close unless necessary.
Key Takeaways
- The Old Mutual Accounting Bursary South Africa 2027 supports Accounting Science students in the Chartered Accounting stream
- The bursary may cover tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials, and travel support
- Students may receive vacation work opportunities and guaranteed employment after graduation
- Strong Mathematics and academic performance are important
- Both Matric learners and eligible university applicants may apply
- The bursary supports studies at multiple South African universities
- The closing date is 30 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the bursary cover accommodation?
Yes.
The bursary may cover residence accommodation and meals.
2. Can current Matric learners apply?
Yes.
Current Matric students who meet the academic requirements may apply.
3. Is Mathematical Literacy accepted?
No.
Applicants must take pure Mathematics.
4. What happens after graduation?
Successful students may enter the Old Mutual Chartered Accounting Training Programme and receive workplace exposure within the company.
Final Thoughts
The Old Mutual Accounting Bursary South Africa 2027 offers far more than financial assistance. It provides talented students with access to quality education, professional mentorship, practical workplace experience, and potential long-term career opportunities within one of South Africa’s leading financial services companies.
For students who are passionate about accounting, finance, and business leadership, this bursary could become the foundation for a highly respected and rewarding professional career.
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