KPMG

About KPMG in South Africa

KPMG is one of the "Big Four" professional services firms. In South Africa it provides audit, tax and advisory services to companies across most industries. Like its competitors, it depends on a steady supply of well-trained chartered accountants to serve clients and to replace staff who move on.

The firm is part of a global network. Its South African practice trains large numbers of graduates each year through the SAICA training programme, which leads to the CA(SA) designation. That designation is respected in business, government and the non-profit sector.

How KPMG supports students

KPMG offers bursaries to students on the chartered accountancy path. They must study full time at a SAICA-accredited university. There are two tracks. The Pure Merit Bursary is based on academic results alone. The Merit Bursary with Financial Need considers both marks and family circumstances. Having both tracks means a strong student is not turned away simply because of household income. The firm sets clear academic targets. Published criteria for a recent round asked for about 65% for financial accounting and for the total of four major subjects, with slightly lower thresholds in some years of study. In the postgraduate CTA year, the published thresholds were lower, at about 50% for financial accounting and 55% in total. These figures can change, so check the latest requirements. Students also need to complete the degree in the minimum time.

KPMG describes the bursary as part of a wider route into the profession. In return for support, recipients are expected to complete their training contract at the firm.

What to know before applying

The training contract is the key point. Recipients sign a formal contract after graduating, and they complete their articles through KPMG's own training programme. This is a real, binding work-back obligation. Therefore, think carefully about whether you want to train at this firm before you accept. The application sequence matters too. Published guidance says candidates must first apply for a KPMG training contract and then complete the bursary application. For the 2027 intake, a closing date of 30 October 2026 was reported. Dates shift each year, so visit the official KPMG careers page to confirm.

Prepare your documents early. You will probably need your academic transcripts, a CV, an ID copy and proof of registration. If you apply under the financial need track, you may also have to supply supporting income documents. Finally, be ready for competition. Strong results in accounting and mathematics help, but clear communication and a good record of leadership or community work also count in selection.