Milpark | More Than One Way to CA(SA) with Milpark’s Bridging Options

Is Bridging for You?

Not everyone follows the traditional route to becoming a CA(SA) – and that’s okay. Milpark’s bridging options are designed for aspiring accountants who:

Didn’t take Maths at high school, or didn’t get the marks they needed
Hold a degree in a non-accounting field
Have taken a study break – whether it’s been a couple of years or several
Attempted PGDA/CTA or SAICA’s board exams but didn’t succeed – yet!
Discovered a passion for accounting after entering the world of work

If any of these apply, your dream of becoming a CA(SA) may still be within reach.

Milpark Alumni Success Story: Andiswa Ntantiso: From Self-Doubt to Success

Milpark’s Direct Route to CA(SA)

Before we explore bridging options, here’s a quick look at Milpark’s direct, SAICA-accredited pathway to CA(SA):

Milpark BCom in Accounting
Milpark Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA/CTA)

You’ll be eligible to sit SAICA’s Initial Assessment of Competence (IAC) after completing Milpark’s PGDA/CTA.

Want to understand the full journey better? Explore SAICA’s Roadmap to CA(SA).

No Maths or Accounting? No Problem.

If you thought that you needed Maths or Accounting at school to become an accountant, we have some good news. Milpark’s Higher Certificate in Management (NQF 5) offers a non-Maths route into accounting. All you need is a Senior Certificate (SC) or a National Senior Certificate (NSC), with at least a pass in English. It’s a smart starting point for:

Students who don’t meet entry requirements for our BCom or the BCom bridging programme
People who discovered a love for accounting later in life
Anyone starting fresh, without strong Maths or Accounting at school

Explore: Higher Certificate in Management

Didn’t Meet Our BCom Maths Requirement?

Whether you’re coming straight from matric or returning to study later in life, Milpark’s Bridging Programme for the BCom in Accounting is a good fit if:

You scored under 50% for Maths or 70% for Maths Literacy
You have at least 50% in two other relevant subjects such as Accounting, Economics, Business Economics, Physical Science, or Natural Science
You want to build confidence academically before starting a full BCom

The Bridging to BCom strengthens your mathematical and academic foundation, so you’ll be ready for Milpark’s SAICA-accredited BCom in Accounting. Plus, the credits you earn carry into the degree, giving you a valuable head start.

Find Out More: Bridging Programme for Milpark’s BCom in Accounting

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):If you have relevant work experience and proven expertise and competency, Milpark may offer an accounting pathway through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Contact us to find out more.

Bridging Postgraduate Gaps

If you already have a BCom degree, Milpark offers two bridging options to build the knowledge, technical competency and confidence you need for the SAICA-accredited PGDA/CTA.

Only Studied Accounting 1?

If you’ve completed a business-related degree with Accounting 1 (but not Accounting 2), Milpark’s Short Programme in Intermediate Financial Reporting is your next step.

This course builds the essential technical skills you’ll need to progress into our Bridging Short Programme in Advanced Accounting. It’s a perfect option if you:

Hold a degree in Commerce, Economics, or another related field
Only studied Accounting up to first-year level
Are ready to move into the CA(SA) stream but need a solid foundation first

The Short Programme in Intermediate Financial Reporting isn’t listed online just yet, so contact us to find out more.

Already Have Accounting 2?

If you already have a degree that includes Accounting 2, but don’t yet meet the PGDA/CTA entry criteria – or want a refresher or confidence boost - Milpark’s SAICA-endorsed Bridging Short Programme in Advanced Accounting is for you.

It’s ideal for students who:

Hold a BCom or equivalent degree that included the study of Financial Accounting/ Reporting (up to NQF level 6) aimed at preparing students to become CAs, but don’t quite meet PGDA/CTA entry requirements
Previously attempted PGDA or CTA without success
Passed CTA more than three years ago (SAICA requires recent completion)
Need to rebuild confidence after a long academic or professional break

Tarryn Harty thought her CA(SA) journey was over after failing CTA. The bridging programme helped her get back on track.

Read her story: Siya Said It, She Did It: Tarryn’s CTA Comeback

Tariq Mohammed Khan, now a Milpark assistant lecturer, shares how Advanced Accounting gave him - and many others – the structure and second chance they needed. Read more: SAICA Recognition Opens Doors.

For more on Bridging (Short Programme in Advanced Accounting), click here.

Support at Every Step – Milpark’s Approach

Whether you’re returning to study, changing careers, or upgrading your qualifications, Milpark understands that accounting success requires more than just mastering the technicalities.

That’s why our support goes way beyond flexible online learning – we offer a holistic approach that includes academic structure, emotional support, and real human connection.

“At Milpark, we believe the path to becoming a CA(SA) isn’t one-size-fits-all. We’re in the business of second chances and open doors for people with the grit to keep going.”
— Johnathan Dillon, Head: School of Professional Accounting

Not Sure Where You Fit? Let’s Chat

Whether you’re an engineer with an eye for numbers or someone who’s switched careers midstream, our expert advisors are here to listen, assess your experience, and help you chart the best way forward.

Contact us to explore your personalised route to PGDA/CTA and beyond.

Wherever you are starting from, there’s a way forward.

With four carefully designed bridging options – and Milpark’s wholehearted support – your dream of becoming a CA(SA) may be within reach after all. Let’s map your journey together - contact us today.

FAQs on Becoming a CA(SA)

Q1: Can I become a CA(SA) if I didn’t get good Maths marks at school?
Yes. Milpark’s Higher Certificate in Management and BCom bridging options can help you build the foundation you need.

Q2: Can I become a CA(SA) if I didn’t do Accounting at school?
Yes. Accounting is not a minimum admission requirement for Milpark’s BCom in Accounting.

Q3: What if I failed CTA or didn’t qualify for PGDA?
You can restart your CA(SA) journey with Milpark’s Advanced Accounting bridging course – even if you studied years ago.

Q4: Do I need a SAICA-accredited degree to do PGDA?
It’s preferred, but not essential. Milpark’s School of Professional Accounting (incorporating CA Connect) bridging programmes help prepare non-SAICA graduates.

Q5: I only did Accounting 1 – can I still qualify for the Advanced Accounting Bridging Course?

Yes – ask about our Intermediate Financial Reporting course to meet the entry requirements.

Q6: What support is available if I study accounting online?
You’ll get structured weekly content, live sessions, holistic academic and non-academic support, and access to wellness services – real connection, not just a portal.

Q7: How long will it take me to become a CA(SA)?
It depends on where you’re starting, but most students complete their BCom and PGDA in 4–6 years. Bridging may add 6–12 months.

Q8: Is Milpark’s PGDA/CTA SAICA-accredited?
Yes – Milpark’s PGDA/CTA meets SAICA accreditation standards. Learn more at SAICA

More Than One Way to CA(SA) with Milpark’s Bridging Options