Nelson Mandela University, in collaboration with Tegkor, offers a prestigious accounting bursary aimed at supporting academically strong students pursuing a career in accounting. This bursary provides financial assistance to students from the “missing middle” income group—those whose household income falls between R350,000 and R600,000 per annum and who do not qualify for free access to higher education.
The bursary is available for first-year, senior (second and third-year), and postgraduate students meeting specific academic and social contribution criteria.
First-Year Student Requirements
Prospective first-year students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree in Accounting or Accounting Sciences at Nelson Mandela University in 2025 are eligible to apply for this bursary. However, applicants must meet stringent academic requirements, ensuring that only the most dedicated and high-achieving students receive financial support.
To qualify, candidates must:
- Be admitted for the first time into the BCom Accounting or BCom Accounting Sciences programmes in 2025.
- Have outstanding academic results in Grade 12.
- Attain an Applicant Score (AS) of 420 and above or achieve at least 80% in Mathematics.
- Be a South African citizen.
Terms and Conditions for First-Year Bursary
The bursary amount for first-year students is up to R12,500, which will be credited directly to the recipient’s student account. It is important to note that this bursary is only awarded for the first year of study. The bursary can be used in conjunction with other funding options, such as the Nelson Mandela University Scholar Merit Awards, as long as they are declared in the application form.
Preference is given to students from the missing middle financial category. The closing date for applications is 14 March 2025.
Senior Student (2nd & 3rd Year) Tegkor Bursary Requirements
Students progressing into their second or third year of accounting studies at Nelson Mandela University in 2025 can also apply for the Tegkor bursary. This includes students enrolled in the following programmes:
- BCom General Accounting
- BCom Accounting (Chartered Accounting)
- BCom Accounting Sciences (Fourth-year included)
To be considered, students must demonstrate academic excellence by achieving:
- An average of at least 70% in their first-year modules or
- A minimum of 65% in second-year modules.
Additionally, applicants must provide evidence of social contribution. This social involvement should be well-documented in the form of testimonials. The application must include a letter describing the nature of the projects the applicant was involved in during 2024, the duration of their involvement, the impact of the project, and feedback from beneficiaries. The number of people who benefitted from the initiative must also be mentioned.
Terms and Conditions for Senior Student Bursary
The bursary amount for senior students is up to R7,500, which will be credited to their student accounts. It can be combined with other financial awards, provided all sources of funding are declared in the application. The preference for funding remains with students in the missing middle category. Previously unsuccessful applicants must reapply, and the deadline for applications is 14 March 2025.
Postgraduate Student Tegkor Bursary Requirements
Postgraduate students pursuing advanced accounting qualifications at Nelson Mandela University in 2025 may also be eligible for the Tegkor bursary. The bursary covers students enrolled in:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA-CTA)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy (PGDA)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing (PGDIA)
Applicants must have achieved a weighted average of at least 60% in their third year of undergraduate studies. Alternatively, students currently in a PGDA programme must have achieved a weighted average of 55%.
Terms and Conditions for Postgraduate Bursary
The bursary amount is up to R7,500, credited to the recipient’s student account. Similar to the other categories, it can be used alongside other bursaries if declared. Preference is again given to students from the missing middle financial category. The deadline for postgraduate applications is 14 March 2025, and students who have applied in previous years must reapply.
Notes and Instructions for Applicants
Applicants are urged to ensure that their applications are complete and accurate before submission. The following guidelines apply to all applicants:
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Late applications will not be accepted.
- Bursaries are only available for full-time students.
- Only South African citizens may apply.
- Applications must be submitted via the Moodle Marketing & Events Page.
The Tegkor/Nelson Mandela University Accounting Bursary is an incredible opportunity for financially constrained but academically gifted students. By providing financial support, this initiative enables deserving individuals to pursue their dream of becoming skilled accounting professionals.
As the closing date of 14 March 2025 approaches, eligible students are encouraged to prepare their applications meticulously, ensuring that all required documentation is submitted in time.
Check also: Starke Ayres Bursary Programme 2025