The Funza Lushaka Bursary is one of the best opportunities for students in South Africa who want to become teachers. This government-funded bursary helps students study teaching at public universities and covers most study-related expenses. If you want to become a teacher but cannot afford university fees, this bursary could be the perfect solution.
In this detailed guide, you will learn:
- What the Funza Lushaka bursary is
- Who qualifies to apply
- What the bursary covers
- Required documents
- Step-by-step application process
- Important closing dates
- Tips to increase your chances
Let’s get started.
What Is The Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is funded by the Department of Basic Education to promote teaching as a career. The bursary is awarded to students who want to study teaching in priority subjects such as:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Technology
- Indigenous Languages
- Accounting
- Technical Subjects
Students who receive this bursary are required to teach at a public school after completing their studies. You must teach one year for every year funded by the bursary.
For example:
- If funded for 4 years → You must teach for 4 years
- If funded for 3 years → You must teach for 3 years
This helps address teacher shortages in South Africa.
What Does The Funza Lushaka Bursary Cover?
The Funza Lushaka bursary is a full-cost bursary that covers most university expenses, including:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Learning materials and textbooks
- Monthly allowance
- Teaching practice costs
- Transport allowance (if staying at home)
This means students can focus fully on their studies without worrying about finances.
Who Can Apply For Funza Lushaka Bursary?
To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
Basic Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be 30 years old or younger (first-time applicants)
- Must want to become a teacher
- Must have strong academic results
- Must be accepted at a public university
- Must study teaching qualification (B.Ed)
Students must also be willing to teach anywhere in South Africa after completing studies.
Qualifications That Are Funded
The Funza Lushaka bursary funds:
Undergraduate Qualifications
- Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) – 4 years
- Early Childhood Development Teaching
- Foundation Phase Teaching
- Intermediate Phase Teaching
- Senior Phase Teaching
- FET Phase Teaching
The bursary mainly supports Bachelor of Education degrees at public universities.
Funza Lushaka 2026 Application Dates
Here are the important dates:
- Applications Open: October 2025
- Applications Close: January / February 2026
- Selection Results: Around April 2026
Late applications are not accepted, so apply early.
Documents Required To Apply
Before applying, prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of ID
- Matric certificate
- Latest academic results
- Proof of university acceptance
- Student number
- Academic transcripts (if already studying)
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Step-By-Step: How To Apply For Funza Lushaka Bursary
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Go To The e-Government Portal
Visit:
This is where all Funza Lushaka applications are done online.
Step 2: Register Your Account
Create a new account by providing:
- Full names
- ID number
- Email address
- Phone number
- Password
Step 3: Login To Your Account
Use your username and password to login.
Step 4: Select Funza Lushaka Bursary
Once logged in:
- Click “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme”
- Enter OTP code sent to your phone/email
- Accept terms and conditions
Step 5: Complete Application Form
Fill in:
- Personal information
- Academic details
- University information
- Teaching subjects
Step 6: Submit Application
After completing:
- Review your details
- Accept declaration
- Submit application
You will receive confirmation after submitting.
Important Things To Know Before Applying
Here are some important points:
- You must apply every year if already funded
- You must pass your studies to keep the bursary
- You cannot choose where to teach after graduation
- You must accept placement by the Department of Education
Graduates are placed in public schools where teachers are needed most.
Universities That Accept Funza Lushaka
You can study at any public university such as:
- University of Johannesburg
- UNISA
- University of Pretoria
- University of Limpopo
- University of Venda
- University of Free State
- North West University
You must apply to university first before applying for the bursary.
Priority Subjects For Funza Lushaka
Students studying the following subjects have better chances:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Life Sciences
- Technology
- Accounting
- Indigenous Languages
- Computer Studies
- Engineering Graphics
These subjects are in high demand in schools.
How Long Does The Bursary Last?
The bursary lasts:
- 4 years (Bachelor of Education)
- Duration depends on qualification
You must maintain good academic performance to continue receiving funding.
Advantages Of Funza Lushaka Bursary
Benefits include:
- No student loan debt
- Guaranteed teaching job placement
- Monthly allowance
- Fully funded education
- Work experience after graduation
This makes Funza Lushaka one of the best bursaries in South Africa.
Tips To Increase Your Chances
Follow these tips:
Apply early
Choose priority subjects
Get good matric marks
Submit all documents
Ensure correct information
Apply to multiple universities
High academic performance improves your chances of selection.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Avoid these mistakes:
Applying late
Incomplete documents
Wrong information
Poor academic results
Not accepted at university
These mistakes may lead to rejection.
What Happens After Applying?
After submitting:
- Your application is reviewed
- University confirms admission
- Department selects successful candidates
- Results released around April
If successful, you will receive confirmation.
Can You Apply If Already At University?
Yes, you can apply if:
- You are already studying teaching
- You have good academic results
- You meet requirements
Returning students must reapply every year.
Is Funza Lushaka Better Than NSFAS?
Funza Lushaka Advantages:
- Guaranteed job placement
- Focused on teaching career
- Full funding
NSFAS Advantages:
- More study fields
- Flexible career options
Both are good options depending on your career goals.
Conclusion
The Funza Lushaka bursary is a life-changing opportunity for South African students who want to become teachers. It offers full funding, teaching experience, and guaranteed job placement after graduation.
If you are passionate about teaching and want to study without financial stress, you should definitely apply for this bursary.
Make sure you:
- Apply early
- Meet requirements
- Submit documents
- Choose priority subjects
This could be your chance to build a successful teaching career in South Africa.