The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is one of South Africa’s most popular and life-changing funding schemes for aspiring teachers. Funded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), it aims to attract talented young South Africans into the teaching profession by providing full bursaries that cover tuition, accommodation, meals, and learning materials.
If you are passionate about teaching and want to pursue a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in 2026, this guide explains everything you need to know about the Funza Lushaka Bursary — including how to apply online, who qualifies, what documents you need, and when the applications close.
What Is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a government-funded initiative designed to encourage academically capable and committed young people to train as teachers.
Successful applicants receive full financial support for the duration of their studies in education, and in return, they are required to teach at a public school for the same number of years that they were funded.
This system not only benefits the student but also helps South Africa address the ongoing shortage of qualified teachers — especially in rural and underserved areas.
Who Qualifies for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026?
Before applying, it’s important to check that you meet the eligibility requirements.
General Requirements:
Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID number.
Must have good academic performance.
Must be accepted or intending to apply for a BEd or PGCE qualification at a public university.
Must be willing to teach in a public school after completion of studies.
Must have a strong commitment to education and be ready to teach in priority subject areas.
Academic Requirements:
First-time university entrants: Must have admission to a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree.
PGCE applicants: Must have completed an approved undergraduate qualification in a relevant teaching subject.
Must meet the minimum university entry requirements for the chosen qualification.
Priority Teaching Subjects for 2026
The Funza Lushaka Bursary gives priority to students who choose to specialize in subjects where teachers are in short supply. These include:
For Senior Phase and Further Education & Training (FET):
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Life Sciences
Agricultural Sciences
Accounting
Economics
Technology
Languages (African languages and English)
Geography
Students who specialize in these subjects have a higher chance of being funded.
What the Funza Lushaka Bursary Covers
The bursary is comprehensive, meaning it covers most study-related costs. Successful applicants will receive funding for:
Full tuition fees
Accommodation at university residence or equivalent
Meals/food allowance
Learning materials/books
Teaching practice costs (where applicable)
The bursary does not provide cash directly to students — instead, payments are made through the institution’s financial aid office.
How to Apply for Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 Online
Here is the official step-by-step process to apply for the bursary:
Step 1: Visit the Official Funza Lushaka Website
Go to https://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za
Always make sure you are on the official government domain to avoid scams or fake portals.
Step 2: Register an Account
If you’re a new applicant, click on “Register” and create an account using:
Your full name
South African ID number
Valid email address and cellphone number
You will receive an activation link via email — click to verify your account.
Step 3: Log In to Your Profile
Return to the Funza Lushaka portal and log in using your email and password.
Step 4: Start Your Application
Click on “Create New Application” or “Apply for Bursary.”
Fill in the required information, including:
Personal details
Academic information
University name and qualification
Teaching specialization subjects
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents
You will need to upload clear, certified copies of the following:
South African ID document
Matric certificate or latest academic results
University acceptance letter
Proof of residence
Proof of registration (if available)
Ensure all documents are in PDF or JPEG format and less than 5 MB each.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
After reviewing your details, click “Submit Application.”
You’ll receive a confirmation message and a reference number. Keep this number safe for tracking purposes.
Application Deadline for 2026
Applications for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 are expected to open in October 2025 and close in February 2026.
However, deadlines can change — always confirm from the official website or your university’s financial aid office.
Late applications are not accepted, so apply early to secure your funding.
Obligations of Funza Lushaka Beneficiaries
Recipients of the bursary are required to:
Teach at a public school for the same number of years they were funded.
Complete their studies within the prescribed time frame.
Accept placement at any public school as determined by the Department of Basic Education.
Maintain good academic standing each year.
Failure to meet these obligations may result in the bursary being converted into a loan, which must be repaid.
How to Check Your Funza Lushaka Application Status
After applying, you can check your application progress by logging in to your Funza Lushaka account.
Log in to your profile.
Click on “Check Application Status.”
Your current status (submitted, pending, approved, or rejected) will be displayed.
Successful candidates will also be contacted via email or SMS once funding is confirmed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application
Submitting incomplete or unclear documents
Using fake or unofficial websites
Missing the deadline
Providing incorrect personal details
Applying for non-priority teaching subjects
Avoid these mistakes to improve your chances of receiving the bursary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for the Funza Lushaka bursary if I already have a qualification?
Yes, but only if you are applying for a PGCE in a priority subject area.
2. Do I need to reapply every year?
Yes. You must renew your application annually to continue receiving funding.
3. Can I apply if I’m studying at a private university?
No. The Funza Lushaka bursary only funds students at public universities.
4. Is there an age limit for applicants?
There is no strict age limit, but the program targets young South Africans entering the teaching profession.
5. How will I know if I was approved?
You’ll receive an email or SMS from the Funza Lushaka management team once your application is successful.