Career guide

Cost Accountant

Conventional

Works out what things actually cost to make or deliver, and where money is being lost. Sits inside a business rather than auditing from outside.

This career needs Core Mathematics.
Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for it at South African universities. This choice is made in Grade 9, for Grade 10 — and it is very difficult to reverse later. If this career is on your list, take Core Mathematics.

School subjects

Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy) is required by most commerce faculties; Accounting helps.

How you qualify

A BCom or a National Diploma in the relevant field (NQF 6-7), 3 years. Many roles are also entered through in-house training and professional bodies rather than a degree alone. Entry requirements and APS differ by institution and change yearly - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Public universities and Universities of Technology; DHET-registered private colleges

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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