Last updated: 14 October 2026
BCom Accounting online in South Africa: key facts
- Duration: usually 3 years full-time, or about 5 to 7 years part-time
- Typical entry requirement: a Bachelor’s pass in Matric, with Mathematics at about 50% (some providers accept Maths Literacy at a higher mark)
- Want to become a CA(SA)? Choose a degree accredited by SAICA for the chartered accountant route
- Funding: NSFAS covers qualifying students at public universities such as UNISA. Private providers rely on fees, bursaries and payment plans
- UNISA 2027 applications: undergraduate applications ran from 17 August to 9 October 2026
A BCom in Accounting teaches you accounting, tax, auditing and business skills. Studying it online means you do not have to go to campus every day. You can learn from home, at work or on your phone, and fit your studies around your job or family.
This guide explains the main benefits, what to check before you choose a programme, and how to succeed as an online student in South Africa.
Benefits of Studying BCom Accounting Online
- You can keep working. Most online students study part-time while they earn a salary.
- You save money. You spend less on transport, rent and campus costs.
- You study at your own pace. Many programmes let you take fewer modules a year if you are busy.
- You get the same degree. An accredited online BCom is a full degree, just like one studied on campus.
- You build useful habits. Online study teaches you to plan your time and work on your own. Employers value both.
Who Is Online Study Best For?
Online study suits you if you:
- Work full-time or part-time and cannot attend classes during the day
- Live far from a university
- Look after children or family members
- Want to move into accounting from another job
- Are able to study on your own most days of the week
Career Benefits of an Accounting Degree
Accounting skills are needed in almost every business. With a BCom in Accounting, you can work towards jobs such as:
- Bookkeeper or accounts clerk
- Junior accountant
- Payroll or tax practitioner
- Auditing trainee
- Financial or management accountant (with experience and further study)
- Chartered accountant, CA(SA), if your degree is SAICA-accredited and you complete the further steps
Skills you will learn
- Preparing and reading financial statements
- Tax, auditing and company law basics
- Budgeting and cost control
- Using accounting software and spreadsheets
- Solving problems and making decisions with numbers
What to Look For in an Online Accounting Programme
- Accreditation. The provider must be registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training. The degree must be accredited by the Council on Higher Education.
- Professional recognition. If you want to be a CA(SA), choose a SAICA-accredited degree. For other careers, check AGA(SA) or SAIPA recognition.
- Student support. Look for tutors, online classes, study guides and quick help when you get stuck.
- Total cost. Ask for the full fee for the whole degree, not just the first year. Check what payment plans are on offer.
- Exams. Find out how and where exams are written, and if you need to travel.
- Technology. Check what laptop, software and internet data you will need.
Online Study vs Campus Study
| Online | On campus | |
|---|---|---|
| Timetable | Flexible | Fixed class times |
| Can you work at the same time? | Yes, usually | Harder |
| Costs | Lower travel and living costs | Higher travel and living costs |
| Contact with lecturers | Online, by email or video | Face to face |
| Self-discipline needed | High | Medium |
Common Challenges and How to Handle Them
- Staying motivated: Set a weekly study plan and stick to it. Small, regular sessions work better than cramming.
- Feeling alone: Join study groups and online forums. Ask your tutors questions early.
- Load-shedding and data: Download study material when you have power and Wi-Fi. Keep a power bank charged.
- Hard modules: Accounting and tax build on each other. Do not skip practice questions, and get help as soon as you fall behind.
Are You Ready to Apply?
Before you apply, check that you have:
- A Matric certificate with a Bachelor’s pass (or an approved equivalent)
- The Maths mark the provider asks for
- About 10 to 15 hours a week for part-time study, or around 40 hours a week for a full load
- A laptop or computer and a reliable internet connection
- A plan to pay your fees each year
Where to Study BCom Accounting Online in South Africa (2026/27)
Several registered providers offer accounting degrees online or by distance learning. These are some of the best-known options. Always confirm details on the provider’s official website before you apply.
| Provider | Programme and mode | Key details |
|---|---|---|
| UNISA | Bachelor of Accounting Sciences degrees, distance learning | Public university, so qualifying students can apply for NSFAS. Undergraduate applications for 2027 ran from 17 August to 9 October 2026 |
| Milpark Education | Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting, 100% online | SAICA accredited, with a route towards CA(SA). Intakes in February and July. Three years on a full load (about 40 hours a week), or a minimum of six years on a half load |
| Eduvos | Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting, online part-time or distance | Accredited by SAICA’s AGA(SA) designation. Part-time takes 5 to 7 years. Fees from R74,679 (2026) and R79,236 (2027) on full settlement |
Admission Requirements for an Online BCom Accounting
Each provider sets its own rules, but most ask for:
- A National Senior Certificate with a Bachelor’s degree pass, or an equivalent qualification
- Mathematics of about 50%. Milpark, for example, also accepts Maths Literacy at 70%, and offers a bridging route for some applicants who fall short
- A pass in English at the required level
- For older applicants: a mature-age exemption from Universities South Africa, or a relevant Higher Certificate or Diploma
SAICA, AGA(SA) or SAIPA: Which Route Do You Want?
- Chartered Accountant, CA(SA): needs a SAICA-accredited degree, followed by further study (CTA or a postgraduate diploma), a training programme and SAICA’s professional exams.
- Associate General Accountant, AGA(SA): a SAICA designation for general accountants. An AGA-accredited degree like Eduvos’ BCom Accounting leads here.
- Professional Accountant (SA): through SAIPA, popular with accountants who run practices for small businesses.
Decide on your career goal first, because the right accreditation saves you years of extra study later.
How to Pay for an Online Accounting Degree
- NSFAS: for qualifying students at public universities, including UNISA
- Bursaries: large audit firms, banks and SETAs (such as FASSET) fund accounting students
- Employer study assistance: many companies pay for qualifications related to your job
- Payment plans: most private providers let you pay monthly instead of upfront
The Long-Term Value of Studying Accounting Online
An online BCom in Accounting can open doors to stable, well-paid work. It lets you earn while you learn, and it gives you a path to professional titles like CA(SA) or AGA(SA). Choose an accredited programme, make a study plan and use the support on offer. With steady effort, you can finish your degree and grow your career at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an online BCom Accounting degree recognised in South Africa?
Yes, if the provider is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training and the degree is accredited by the Council on Higher Education. For a professional career, also check SAICA or SAIPA accreditation.
Can I become a chartered accountant by studying online?
Yes. Choose a SAICA-accredited degree, then complete the further study, training and exams SAICA requires.
How long does a BCom Accounting take online?
About three years full-time. Part-time study usually takes five to seven years.
Can I study BCom Accounting with Maths Literacy?
Some providers accept Maths Literacy at a high mark (for example 70% at Milpark), but most require Mathematics. Check each provider’s rules.
Does NSFAS fund online accounting degrees?
NSFAS funds qualifying students at public universities, including UNISA’s distance programmes. It does not fund private providers.