A Chartered Accountant, CA(SA), is one of the most respected and highest-earning professional qualifications in South Africa. CAs work in auditing, finance, business and leadership across every sector, and the designation is recognised internationally. This guide covers what chartered accountants do, the school subjects and qualifications you need, how to become a chartered accountant in South Africa step by step, what you can earn, and whether it's in demand.
What does a chartered accountant do?
A Chartered Accountant, CA(SA), is one of the most respected and highest-earning professional qualifications in South Africa. CAs work in auditing, finance, business and leadership across every sector, and the designation is recognised internationally.
School subjects you need
To keep this path open, aim for these subjects and a strong National Senior Certificate:
- Pure Mathematics (essential)
- Accounting (strongly recommended)
- English
- A strong overall bachelor's pass with a high APS
How to become a chartered accountant in South Africa
- 1Pass matric with pure Maths and a high APS, ideally with Accounting.
- 2Complete a SAICA-accredited BCom Accounting degree, then a postgraduate CTA / Honours.
- 3Sign a three-year training contract (articles) with an accredited employer (e.g. an audit firm).
- 4Pass SAICA's two board exams (ITC and APC).
- 5Register as a CA(SA) with SAICA.
Where to study
- SAICA-accredited universities (e.g. UCT, Stellenbosch, UP, Wits, UKZN, UJ, NWU).
- The full route is roughly seven years including articles.
- Bursaries from audit firms and companies are widely available for strong students.
Chartered Accountant salary in South Africa
Newly qualified CAs(SA) typically earn around R550,000–R750,000 a year. With a few years' experience this rises to R800,000–R1,200,000, and CAs in senior finance and executive roles earn well beyond that.
A note on salaries
Salary ranges are typical guides only and vary widely by employer, sector, location and experience. Treat them as a rough picture, not a promise.
Is chartered accountant a good career? Demand in South Africa
Accounting and auditing skills remain in demand across South Africa, and the CA(SA) designation opens doors in finance, consulting, business leadership and abroad.
Skills you'll need
- Strong numeracy and analytical thinking
- Discipline and attention to detail
- Integrity and ethics
- Business and communication skills
Not sure if chartered accountant is the right fit for you? Take our free assessment to check it against your interests, strengths and values.
Take the free assessmentHow long does it take to become a CA(SA)?+
About seven years in total: a three-year degree, a one-year CTA/Honours, and a three-year training contract (articles), along with passing SAICA's two board exams.
Do I need pure Maths to become a Chartered Accountant?+
Yes. Pure Mathematics is essential — Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for accounting degrees at SAICA-accredited universities.
Is becoming a CA(SA) worth it?+
For many it is: strong earnings, security, international recognition and broad career options. It is demanding, so genuine interest in business and numbers matters.
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