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How to Become a Chartered Accountant in South Africa

Last updated: 1 Mar 2026

Controlling Body
SAICA (South African Institute of Chartered Accountants)
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Duration
7–8 years
Salary Range
R350,000 – R1,200,000+ per year

About the CA(SA)

The CA(SA) designation is the most prestigious accounting qualification in South Africa and one of the most respected globally. Awarded by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), it requires a rigorous academic programme, two professional examinations (ITC and APC), and a three-year training contract. CA(SA)s are qualified to sign off on financial statements, provide audit opinions, advise on complex tax matters, and serve as directors of companies. The qualification is recognised internationally through SAICA's reciprocal agreements with bodies in the UK, Australia, Canada, and elsewhere.

Entry Requirements

  • National Senior Certificate (matric) with Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) — minimum Level 5 (60%)
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Commerce accredited by SAICA (typically a BCom Accounting)
  • Must include specific academic subjects: Financial Accounting, Auditing, Taxation, Management Accounting, Financial Management
  • Strong analytical and numerical skills
  • English proficiency (university-level academic reading and writing)

Pathway to Qualification

  1. 1

    Undergraduate Degree

    3 years
    Complete a SAICA-accredited BCom Accounting or equivalent at a recognised university (e.g., Wits, UCT, Stellenbosch, UP, UKZN, UJ).
  2. 2

    Postgraduate Diploma or CTA

    1 year
    Complete a SAICA-accredited Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) or Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA). This is the honours-equivalent year.
  3. 3

    Initial Test of Competence (ITC)

    1 exam sitting
    Write and pass the ITC examination set by SAICA. The pass rate historically ranges between 55–70%. The exam covers Financial Accounting, Auditing, Tax, and Management Accounting.
  4. 4

    Training Contract (Articles)

    3 years
    Complete a SAICA-registered training contract at an accredited training office — typically a Big 4 firm (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC), mid-tier firm, or approved commerce/public sector organisation.
  5. 5

    Assessment of Professional Competence (APC)

    1 exam sitting
    Write and pass the APC — a case-study-based exam testing professional judgement and integrated knowledge. Taken during or after your training contract.
  6. 6

    Designation

    Register as a CA(SA) with SAICA. You may now use the CA(SA) designation after your name and are bound by SAICA's Code of Professional Conduct.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a CA(SA)?
The typical pathway takes 7–8 years: 3 years for an undergraduate degree, 1 year for a postgraduate qualification (PGDA/CTA), and 3 years of articles. The ITC and APC exams are written during or alongside the training contract. Some candidates take longer if they need to repeat exams.
What does a CA(SA) earn in South Africa?
Newly qualified CA(SA)s typically earn between R550,000 and R750,000 per year. With 5–10 years of experience, salaries range from R800,000 to R1,500,000+. Partners at audit firms and CFOs can earn R2,000,000–R5,000,000+. Salaries vary significantly by industry, city, and company size.
Is the CA(SA) recognised internationally?
Yes. SAICA has mutual recognition agreements with ICAEW (England & Wales), ICAS (Scotland), CPA Australia, CA ANZ (Australia & New Zealand), ICAI (Ireland), and CPA Canada. CA(SA)s can convert their qualification to practise in these jurisdictions, often with limited additional requirements.

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