To become a chartered accountant, CA(SA), you study a SAICA-accredited BCom Accounting degree, followed by further study, a training contract and professional exams. Other accounting careers, such as bookkeeping or tax practice, have shorter routes.
School subjects you'll usually need
| Subject | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Required for most BCom Accounting and CA(SA) programmes. Maths Literacy is usually not accepted. |
| Accounting | Helpful but often not required. Many universities teach accounting from the start. |
| English | Needed for reports and professional exams. |
Other accounting routes
If you don't have Mathematics, look at accounting diplomas and bookkeeping qualifications that accept Maths Literacy. They lead to roles such as bookkeeper, payroll administrator and accounts clerk.
Always check the latest rules. Each university sets its own subject minimums and APS, and they can change every year. Use this page as a guide, then confirm on the university's prospectus before you choose subjects or apply.
Check your APS
Your subjects get you in the door; your APS decides how competitive you are. Work out your APS in one minute, then see which courses you qualify for in the EduRance app.
Choose the accounting route before comparing subjects
Bookkeeping, general accounting, financial management and the chartered accountant route do not all have the same admission requirements.
- For a CA(SA) goal, check that the degree is recognised for the professional route and confirm its Mathematics minimum.
- For diplomas and higher certificates, check whether Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
- Compare the programme's APS, English requirement and any progression rules.
Taking Accounting at school can help, but some university accounting programmes teach it from the beginning. Mathematics is often the more important admission subject for degree routes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Accounting at school to study accounting?
Usually not. Mathematics is more important for most BCom Accounting degrees.
Can I become a CA with Maths Literacy?
Not directly. CA(SA) programmes require Mathematics. Some learners upgrade their Maths after matric.
How long does it take to become a CA(SA)?
Usually around seven years: a degree, a postgraduate year, a training contract and professional exams.