RSM Education Trust Bursary South Africa For 2026. Are you a black female student in South Africa with a passion for Accounting or Information Technology and in need of financial support? The RSM Education Trust Bursary South Africa for 2026 offers a golden opportunity to fund your academic journey and gain real-world experience at one of the country’s top auditing and consulting firms. This bursary aims to empower young black women to thrive in sectors where their representation is still limited.
In this comprehensive guide, we unpack everything you need to know about the RSM Education Trust Bursary, including eligibility requirements, application procedures.
About RSM South Africa
RSM South Africa is a leading name in the world of auditing, tax consulting, and advisory services. Established in 1939, RSM has built a national footprint with branches in major business hubs like Cape Town and Johannesburg. Over the decades, RSM has earned a stellar reputation for its client-centric approach and for maintaining long-standing professional relationships built on trust, collaboration, and high standards of service.
RSM is part of RSM International, the 6th largest network of independent audit, tax, and consulting firms globally. Their local operations support transformation and empowerment by investing in education, particularly for black female students.
What is the RSM Education Trust Bursary?
The RSM Education Trust Bursary Programme is an initiative by RSM South Africa aimed at empowering black women in South Africa by removing financial barriers to higher education. The bursary is available for students pursuing studies in:
- Accounting – must be a SAICA-accredited Bachelor of Accounting degree.
- Information Technology – must be an Honours in Bachelor of Science in IT.
Fields Covered by the RSM Bursary
The RSM Education Trust Bursary is specifically targeted at black female students who are pursuing higher education in the following disciplines:
| Study Field | Qualification Requirement |
|---|---|
| Accounting | Final year of SAICA-accredited Bachelor of Accounting |
| Information Technology | Honours in Bachelor of Science in IT |
These fields are critical to South Africa’s economic growth and innovation. The bursary seeks to close the gender and racial gap in these professional sectors.
What Does the RSM Bursary Cover?
The RSM Education Trust Bursary South Africa provides financial assistance to cover several key study-related expenses. Here’s what’s included:
| Covered Expenses | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full academic tuition for the duration of the study programme |
| Textbooks | Prescribed books required by your university |
| Accommodation | Capped amount for student housing |
| Living Allowance | Monthly stipend (also capped) for daily living costs |
Additionally, after completing your studies, successful applicants will receive a training contract with RSM South Africa. You’ll be offered a professional opportunity without the burden of repaying the bursary.
No repayment obligation after signing a training contract with RSM.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the RSM Education Trust Bursary 2026, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be female
- Must be Black (as per South African B-BBEE codes)
- Must have completed Matric
- Accounting applicants: Final year of SAICA-accredited Bachelor of Accounting (in 2025)
- Accounting applicants: Preferably not signed with another firm
- IT applicants: Completing Honours in BSc IT
- Must demonstrate strong academic performance
- Must have proven financial need
Failure to meet all the above requirements may lead to immediate disqualification of your application.
How to Apply for the RSM Education Trust Bursary
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the RSM Bursary for 2026:
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Get the official RSM Education Trust Bursary Application Form 2026 in PDF format. (Usually available via RSM or Zabusaries platforms.)
Step 2: Complete the Form
Fill out the form carefully with accurate personal, academic, and financial information.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
You must submit certified copies of the following:
| Required Documents | Details |
|---|---|
| South African ID | Certified copy |
| Matric Certificate | Certified copy |
| Full Academic Record | On official university letterhead |
| Motivational Letter | Max 1000 words, compelling and personalized |
Note: In your motivational letter, explain your financial situation, academic goals, and why you deserve this bursary.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Email your completed application and documents to:
Closing Date for the RSM Bursary 2026
Application Deadline: 6 January 2026
What Happens After You Apply?
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 4 weeks of the closing date.
- If you do not receive feedback, your application was unsuccessful.
- Selected candidates will be offered training contracts after graduation.
- There is no repayment required if you accept the training contract at RSM.
Why Choose the RSM Education Trust Bursary?
Choosing the RSM Education Trust Bursary South Africa means choosing more than just financial relief. You gain:
- Access to world-class education
- A direct pathway to employment at RSM
- Mentorship and professional development
- Full support during your studies
This bursary is ideal for young, determined black women who want to become future leaders in Accounting or Information Technology.
FAQs About RSM Education Trust Bursary
Can I apply for the RSM Bursary if I’m not in my final year yet?
No, this bursary is only open to Accounting students in their final year of a SAICA-accredited degree and IT students in Honours year.
Is this bursary renewable every year?
No. It is a once-off bursary for students completing their final or honours year. However, it leads to a training contract with RSM upon successful completion of studies.
Will I need to pay back the bursary amount after graduation?
No. As long as you accept and complete the training contract with RSM, you will not be required to repay the bursary funds.
Conclusion
The RSM Education Trust Bursary South Africa for 2026 is an excellent opportunity for deserving black female students to advance their education and careers. With comprehensive financial coverage, mentorship, and guaranteed career entry, this bursary stands out as one of the most impactful in South Africa.
