If you want to become a Chartered Accountant CA(SA) in South Africa, you need a structured training contract. The Sanlam SAICA Trainee Accountant (TOPP Programme) 2026 is one of the best opportunities available right now—especially if you’ve already completed your CTA or postgraduate accounting degree.
This is a three-year programme inside one of South Africa’s largest financial services groups. You’ll work on real finance projects, rotate through different departments, and complete all the requirements to qualify as a CA(SA).
If you’re eligible, you should apply before 31 May 2026. Competition will be tough, but this opportunity is worth your effort.
What Is the Sanlam SAICA Trainee Accountant Programme?
The TOPP Programme is a SAICA-accredited three-year training contract. You work for Sanlam while studying toward your CA(SA) qualification.
During the three years, you’ll rotate through different parts of the Sanlam business. This means you’ll work on:
- Financial reporting and annual statements
- Internal audit and compliance
- Risk management and controls
- Corporate taxation
- Governance and ethics
- Digital finance systems
- Business strategy and decision-making
By the end, you’ll have the practical experience and qualifications needed to register as a CA(SA).
Who Can Apply?
To apply, you must meet SAICA’s training contract entry requirements. Here’s what you need:
Essential Requirements
- Completed CTA qualification OR SAICA-recognised postgraduate accounting qualification
- Academic average of at least 60%
- Eligibility to enter the Initial Assessment of Competence (IAC)
If you’re still completing your CTA, you can apply as long as you finish before the programme starts.
What Strengthens Your Application (But Isn’t Required)
Sanlam looks for well-rounded candidates, not just strong grades. If you have any of the following, mention them in your application:
- Student leadership roles (committee member, president, treasurer)
- Volunteer experience or community work
- Involvement in university societies or clubs
- Evidence of problem-solving or teamwork
- Basic Microsoft Office skills
Many applicants think grades alone win contracts. They don’t. Sanlam wants to see that you’re responsible, motivated, and can work with others.
What You’ll Learn and Gain
This isn’t just about getting a qualification. You’ll develop real skills that make you valuable in finance.
Technical Skills
You’ll work on:
- Preparing interim and annual financial statements
- Understanding group-level accounting and consolidation
- Internal controls and audit frameworks
- Compliance and governance systems
- Enterprise risk monitoring
- Corporate tax planning and compliance
Professional Skills
Beyond the technical work, you’ll develop:
- How to make decisions with confidence
- How to work with senior leaders and teams
- How to handle pressure and solve problems quickly
- How to think innovatively about finance challenges
- Professional accountability and ethics
These skills are what separate average accountants from leaders.
How to Apply
Click here to apply for the Sanlam SAICA Trainee Accountant (TOPP Programme) 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check the deadline: 31 May 2026 (applications must be submitted before midnight on this date)
- Prepare your documents: Your CV, academic transcript, and any evidence of leadership or volunteering
- Complete the online form: Be honest. Employers check references
- Submit early: Don’t wait until the last week. Technical glitches happen
After the deadline, Sanlam will shortlist candidates. Selected applicants may face assessments, interviews, and final selection.
The timeline depends on how many people apply. You might hear back in 4–8 weeks, or it could take longer.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Many qualified applicants apply for this programme. Here’s how to stand out:
1. Show Your Academic Eligibility Clearly
Make sure your transcript clearly shows:
- Your CTA or postgraduate qualification is complete
- Your overall average is 60% or higher
- You’re eligible for SAICA registration
If there’s any doubt, the application gets rejected. No second chances.
2. Tell Your Story in Your CV
Don’t just list qualifications. Explain:
- Why you want to become a CA(SA)
- What leadership or teamwork you’ve done
- A time you solved a problem or learned something difficult
- Why you want to work specifically for Sanlam
A one-page CV with these details beats a two-page list of grades.
3. Apply to Multiple Programmes
This is the most important tip. Don’t just apply to Sanlam. Also apply to training contracts at other employers:
- The “Big Four” audit firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC)
- Other large financial services companies
- Corporate finance departments
Why? Because only some applicants will succeed at each company. If you apply to three or four programmes, your chances of getting at least one contract increase dramatically.
Many graduates fail to secure a contract because they apply to only one or two employers. Don’t be that person.
4. Prepare for Interviews
If you’re shortlisted, you’ll likely face an interview. Practice answering:
- “Why do you want to be a CA(SA)?”
- “Tell us about a time you led a team or solved a problem.”
- “What do you know about Sanlam?”
- “How will you balance studying and working?”
Interview nerves are normal. The difference between candidates who get hired and those who don’t is usually preparation, not intelligence.
Common Questions Answered
Do I need previous work experience?
No. The programme is designed for recent graduates. Leadership roles or volunteer work help, but they’re not required.
Can I apply if I’m still finishing my CTA?
Yes, if you’ll complete it before the programme starts. Include a letter from your institution confirming your completion date.
What if my average is below 60%?
You won’t meet the minimum requirement. However, check with SAICA directly—in some cases, other qualifications or evidence of competence may be considered. But this is rare.
Is Microsoft Office knowledge essential?
It’s advantageous but not mandatory. However, most finance jobs use Excel heavily. If you’re weak in Office, spend a few weeks learning online before you apply.
Is this better than an audit firm training contract?
It depends on your goals. Audit firms (like Deloitte or PwC) focus on audit and assurance. Sanlam’s TOPP Programme prepares you for corporate finance roles, treasury, risk management, and strategy.
If you want to lead finance departments rather than specialise in audit, Sanlam is the better choice. If you’re unsure, apply to both.
What Happens Next?
Application closes 31 May 2026. If you’re eligible, apply now. Don’t wait.
After submission:
- Sanlam reviews all applications
- Eligible candidates are shortlisted
- Selected candidates complete assessments or interviews
- Final offers are made
The entire process can take 2–4 months. Start preparing your documents this week.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a CA(SA) requires a training contract. Without one, you can’t qualify. That makes programmes like Sanlam’s TOPP incredibly valuable.
Yes, competition is tough. Yes, you might face rejection. But if you’re eligible and you apply strategically—to multiple employers, with a strong CV, and before the deadline—your chances are genuinely good.
The accountants earning R2 million a year in South Africa? Most of them started exactly where you are now. They applied, were selected, and completed their three years of hard work.
You can do the same. Start your applications this week.
Important Safety Notice
Never pay money to apply for this programme. Legitimate employers don’t charge application fees. If someone asks you for money or personal information in exchange for a “guaranteed job,” it’s a scam.
Apply only through the official Sanlam careers portal. If you’re unsure whether an opportunity is real, visit the Sanlam website directly or contact their HR department.
Edupstairs is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO No: 232–182, PBO: 930066984). We do not ask for money or CVs in exchange for job placements. This information is based on publicly available recruitment details. Always confirm final requirements on the official employer website before applying.
