Cape Gate invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their BCom (CA Stream) bursary vacancies.
The closing date for applications is 31 January 2026.
What is the Cape Gate Erwin Robert Balde Bursary 2026?
If you are a top‑scoring Grade 12 student dreaming of becoming a Chartered Accountant, but the cost of university feels overwhelming, this bursary could be the key to your future.
Cape Gate (Pty) Ltd, a leading steel company in South Africa, has created a scholarship that covers not only tuition but also living costs, books, a laptop, and even paid summer work. It’s designed to help bright South Africans build a career in finance, audit, and accounting.
Quick Snapshot
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary name | Erwin Robert Balde Bursary Scheme |
| Sponsor | Cape Gate (Pty) Ltd |
| Type | External funded bursary |
| Target students | First‑year BCom (CA Stream) entrants for 2026 |
| Qualification | BCom (CA) up to Honours |
| Where to study | University of Pretoria and other approved South African universities |
| Who can apply? | 2025 matric graduates starting BCom (CA) in 2026 |
| Minimum grades | 65 % average, 70 %+ in Mathematics |
| What you’ll get | Full tuition, registration, accommodation (or allowance), book and personal allowances, one‑off laptop fund |
| Closing date | 31 January 2026 |
| Apply to | ERB2026@capegate.co.za |
About Cape Gate and the Bursary
Cape Gate (Pty) Ltd is a top steel maker located in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng. The company has been in business for decades and supplies wire and steel for construction, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing across South Africa.
Beyond steel, Cape Gate is committed to helping young people grow. The Erwin Robert Balde Bursary is a part of that commitment, offering financial support and real‑world work experience to students who want to study commerce and become Chartered Accountants.
Why it matters
- Build future leaders in finance and accounting
- Encourage academic excellence
- Open doors for students from lower‑income backgrounds
- Strengthen South Africa’s talent pipeline in accounting
Why a Chartered Accountant Path Is Worth It
The CA qualification is highly respected and often pays well. However, it is also a long, demanding, and expensive journey. Many talented learners miss out because they can’t afford:
- Registration fees
- Tuition
- Accommodation or hostel costs
- Textbooks and study materials
- Transport and personal expenses
- A computer for coursework
Cape Gate’s bursary removes those money worries and gives you paid work experience during the holiday break. That makes it one of the most comprehensive supports available to BCom accounting students.
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition and registration fees – No upfront payments needed.
- Accommodation – If you stay in a university residence, all fees and meals can be paid. If you live elsewhere, you’ll receive a living allowance.
- Books and study materials – The bursary covers the costs for required texts.
- Monthly or yearly personal allowance – Helps cover day‑to‑day costs while at university.
- Once‑off computer allowance – A laptop or computer is essential for assignments; the bursary gives you a one‑time budget to buy one.
With these supports, you can focus on your studies instead of worrying about money.
Who Can Get the Bursary?
To be considered, you must:
- Have strong grades – Minimum 65 % average in 2025 matric and 70 %+ in Mathematics (Math Literacy does not count).
- Show financial need – You must not have enough money to cover university costs.
- Not be funded elsewhere – No other bursaries or scholarships for this year.
- Pass an interview – Shortlisted students will be asked to discuss their goals and commitment.
The bursary is for first‑year BCom (CA Stream) students only starting in 2026.
Conditions You’ll Need to Meet
- Paid holiday work – Students must do paid work at Cape Gate during December–January each year.
- Annual renewal – You can keep the bursary for future years only if your grades stay strong.
- Work‑back agreement – After graduation, Cape Gate may ask you to work for them for a period equal to the time you were funded. If you refuse, you might have to repay the bursary plus interest.
These rules are common for large company bursaries.
How to Apply
Step 1 – Get the Application Form
Send an email to ERB2026@capegate.co.za with the subject line
“Request – ERB Bursary Application Form 2026.”
Step 2 – Fill It Out Completely
Attach:
- Matric results (2025)
- ID copy
- Proof that you need financial help (e.g., a statement from a parent or guardian)
- Any other school reports or achievements
Make sure every question is answered and every document is clear.
Step 3 – Send It Back Before the Deadline
Email the finished application and all attachments to ERB2026@capegate.co.za.
Only those who make it to the short‑list will be contacted.
Minimum Eligibility Checklist
- South African citizen
- 2025 matric graduate entering BCom (CA) in 2026
- 65 % overall average and 70 %+ Mathematics
- Financially needy
- Not receiving any other bursary
Tips for a Strong Application
- Treat the email and documents like a first job interview.
- Keep your tone professional and clear.
- Make sure all documents are certified or signed by the relevant authority.
- Show why you want to become a Chartered Accountant and how this bursary will help you.
Believe in yourself – you deserve this opportunity!
Career Paths After the Bursary
Students who finish this bursary often become:
- Chartered Accountant (SA)
- Financial Manager
- Auditor (public or internal)
- Investment Analyst
- Tax Consultant
- Corporate Finance Analyst
- Management Accountant
The CA route opens doors to high‑level jobs both inside South Africa and abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this bursary cover all four years of the degree?
Only the first year is funded. Renewal is possible if your grades stay good.Can I study at any university?
It is valid for the University of Pretoria and other approved South African universities.Will I get a laptop?
Yes, a one‑off allowance is included.Is paid holiday work required?
Yes, December and January paid work at Cape Gate is mandatory.What if I fail a course?
Renewal depends on maintaining strong academic performance.Will I have to work for Cape Gate after graduation?
A work‑back agreement may be required.When is the application deadline?
31 January 2026.
Apply early and put your best foot forward.
This bursary can transform your dreams of a CA career into reality. Good luck!
