The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme 2026 is now open for applications, inviting passionate and aspiring young South Africans who dream of becoming teachers to apply. This bursary remains one of the country’s most sought-after opportunities for future educators, offering full financial support for teaching studies at public universities nationwide.
Application Dates
- Applications Open: 7 October 2025
- Closing Date (New Applicants): 24 January 2026
- Closing Date (Returning Bursars): 30 November 2025
- Study Locations: All 26 Public Universities across South Africa
About the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme 2026
The Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary is a government-funded initiative that supports students pursuing careers in education. Its core goal is to attract talented young people to the teaching profession, particularly in subjects where skilled educators are urgently needed.
This bursary doesn’t just pay for your studies—it opens the door to a rewarding and stable career in teaching while contributing to the nation’s education system. By offering financial relief and professional pathways, the programme helps address the critical shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa’s schools.
What the Bursary Covers
The Funza Lushaka Bursary provides comprehensive financial support for eligible students, including:
- Full tuition fees for the academic year
- Accommodation and meals at university residences
- Books, study materials, and registration fees
- A monthly living allowance to cover basic expenses
This all-inclusive bursary allows students to focus on their studies without the financial stress that often comes with tertiary education.
Qualifications Funded
The bursary supports students studying towards the following teaching qualifications:
1. Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) – 4 Years
Students can specialise in:
- Foundation Phase (Grades R – 3)
- Intermediate Phase (Grades 4 – 6)
- Senior and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grades 7 – 12)
2. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – 1 Year
This option is available for students focusing on Senior Phase and FET Phase (Grades 7–12), provided they already hold an undergraduate degree with at least two priority subject areas.
Who Can Apply
To qualify for the Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be 30 years of age or younger.
- Must have strong academic performance and commitment to teaching.
- Must have been accepted into a B.Ed. or PGCE programme at a recognised public university.
- Must plan to specialise in at least two priority subjects identified by the Department of Basic Education.
- Must meet the minimum entry requirements of the chosen university.
Priority Teaching Subjects
The Funza Lushaka Bursary focuses on subjects that are in high demand across public schools. These include:
- Mathematics
- Languages (including African languages)
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Accounting
- Agricultural Sciences
- Economics
- Technology
- Geography
Students who plan to teach these subjects are strongly encouraged to apply, as they are vital to the country’s education system.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026
Follow the steps below to complete your application successfully:
- Visit the official e-Gov portal at: www.eservices.gov.za
- Register by entering your personal information.
- Log in using your username and password.
- On the menu, click “Education”.
- Select “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme.”
- Enter the One-Time Pin (OTP) sent to your contact number or email.
- Read and accept the Terms and Conditions.
- On your dashboard, click “2026 Application.”
- Complete all required details accurately.
- Accept the declaration confirming your information is true and correct.
Important Notes
- The bursary is renewable each year, based on your academic performance.
- Recipients must teach in a public school for the same number of years they received funding.
- Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
Final Thoughts
The Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary 2026 offers more than just funding—it’s a life-changing opportunity to build a stable and impactful career in education. By investing in future educators, the programme helps shape the next generation of South African learners.
If you’re passionate about teaching and eager to make a difference, this bursary could be your gateway to success. Don’t wait—apply now and take the first step toward becoming a qualified teacher in South Africa.