Business

How to Become a Accountant / Chartered Accountant in South Africa

Keep businesses financially healthy and compliant

APS 28–38
APS Range
R200k – R2.5m per year
Annual Salary (ZAR)
High
Job Demand
Conventional / Enterprising
RIASEC Profile
About this Career

Accountants manage financial records, prepare financial statements, audit companies, and advise on tax. The CA(SA) (Chartered Accountant of South Africa) is one of the most respected and highest-earning qualifications in the country. The pathway is a 3-year BCom Accounting degree (at a SAICA-accredited university) + CTA Honours + SAICA board exams + 3 years articles. Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG) recruit aggressively.

What Does a Accountant / Chartered Accountant Do?

Accountants process transactions, prepare financial reports, analyse costs, manage payroll, liaise with SARS, and advise management on financial strategy. Auditors examine company records for accuracy and compliance.

APS & Subject Requirements
Minimum APS
28 points
Typical APS Range
28–38 points
Required Subjects:
Mathematics (Level 4+), Accounting (recommended), English (Level 4+)
✗ Pure Mathematics is required — Mathematical Literacy is NOT accepted

Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.

SA Universities Offering This Programme

Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.

Step-by-Step Career Roadmap

  1. Achieve APS 28+ with pure Mathematics (not Math Literacy). BCom Accounting at a SAICA-accredited university (UCT, Wits, UP, Stellenbosch, UJ, NWU) is the entry point to the CA(SA) pathway.

  2. Complete BCom Accounting (3 years) + CTA (Certificate in the Theory of Accounting, 1 year Honours). Pass the SAICA Initial Test of Competence (ITC) and Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) board exams.

  3. Complete 3 years of articles (practical training) at a SAICA-registered training office. Qualify as a CA(SA) and work in audit, corporate finance, financial management, or start your own practice.

Frequently Asked Questions
What APS do I need for BCom Accounting in South Africa?
BCom Accounting requires APS 28–38 depending on the university. UCT, Wits, and Stellenbosch are the most competitive (APS 35–38). Pure Mathematics is required — Mathematical Literacy is NOT accepted.
How long does it take to become a Chartered Accountant in South Africa?
CA(SA) takes about 7 years: 3 years BCom + 1 year CTA + 3 years articles + SAICA board exams. It is one of South Africa's most rigorous but also most rewarding professional qualifications.
What do chartered accountants earn in South Africa?
Newly qualified CA(SA)s earn R500,000–R700,000. Experienced CAs earn R800,000–R1,500,000. CFOs and finance directors can earn R2,000,000–R2,500,000+.
Salary Range in South Africa (2026)
Starting Salary
R200k/year
Senior / Experienced
R2.5m+/year

Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.