Career guide

Financial Manager

Enterprising

Runs the finances of an organisation - budgets, reporting, cash flow, controls and the finance team. A senior role reached after years in accounting or finance.

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) and Accounting.

How you qualify

A BCom in Accounting or Financial Management (NQF 7), usually followed by a professional qualification such as CA(SA), CIMA or SAIPA, and several years of experience. This is not an entry-level job - expect to start as an accountant or analyst. Entry requirements differ by institution - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Public universities and Universities of Technology; SAICA, CIMA or SAIPA professional routes

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 We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another.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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