How to Apply For a Funza Lushaka Bursary – A Detailed Guide

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a fantastic opportunity for South African students who aspire to become teachers and contribute to the country’s educational development. This bursary is offered by the South African Department of Basic Education (DBE) to support students who wish to pursue teaching as a career, particularly in critical subjects like mathematics, science, and technology.

If you’re passionate about teaching and want to gain a teaching qualification, the Funza Lushaka Bursary is the perfect opportunity for you. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary for the 2027 academic year, including key requirements and tips for a successful application.

What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a government-funded initiative designed to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa. The bursary covers a range of teaching qualifications and is aimed at students who are committed to teaching in public schools across the country, particularly in rural and under-resourced areas.

Benefits of the Funza Lushaka Bursary:

• Full Coverage of Tuition Fees: The bursary covers tuition fees, registration fees, and other study-related expenses.
• Living Allowance: Recipients of the bursary are provided with a monthly allowance to cover living expenses.
• Textbook Allowance: A provision for the purchase of textbooks to support your studies.
• Teaching Practice: Funza Lushaka recipients are placed in schools to complete their teaching practice, which is an integral part of their qualification.
• Employment Commitment: After completing your qualification, you are required to teach in a public school for a set period, usually 1 year for every year that you received the bursary.

The bursary is available for students studying towards a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), as well as students already enrolled in teacher education programs at selected universities.

Who is Eligible for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

Before applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, it’s essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to qualify for the bursary:

1. South African Citizenship:
   • Applicants must be South African citizens.
2. Academic Requirements:
   • For undergraduate students, you must have a Matric certificate or equivalent and meet the university’s entry requirements for a teaching qualification (e.g., B.Ed. or a PGCE).
   • For postgraduate students, you should have an appropriate degree and meet the entry requirements for the PGCE program.
3. Field of Study:
   • The bursary is available for students pursuing degrees in teaching, with a particular focus on critical subjects such as mathematics, science, languages, and technology.
4. Commitment to Teaching in South Africa:
   • You must be willing to teach in a public school after completing your qualification. Funza Lushaka bursary recipients are required to teach for a certain number of years, usually 1 year for each year the bursary was received.
5. Financial Need:
   • The bursary is aimed at students who demonstrate a need for financial assistance to complete their studies.

How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary

Applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to the details. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Step 1: Register on the Funza Lushaka Bursary Website

The first step is to visit the official Funza Lushaka Bursary website. This is the platform where you will submit your application.

1. Go to the Funza Lushaka Bursary application portal:
2. Create a user account:
   To apply, you will need to create an account by registering on the Funza Lushaka portal. You will be asked to provide some basic personal information, including your full name, ID number, and contact details.
3. Activate your account:
   After registration, you will receive an email with an activation link. Click on the link to activate your account and proceed with the application.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

Once your account is activated, you can log in and begin filling out the online application form. The form will ask for details such as:

• Personal information: Full name, contact information, ID number, etc.
• Academic details: Your Matric results or the highest level of education you have completed.
• Institution details: The university or institution where you are currently studying or have been accepted.
• Program details: The teaching qualification you wish to pursue (e.g., B.Ed., PGCE) and your preferred field of study (e.g., mathematics, science, languages, etc.).

You will also be asked to upload copies of your Matric certificate, ID, and any other supporting documents (such as proof of university acceptance, proof of income, etc.).

Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents

During the application process, you will need to upload several documents to support your application. These documents typically include:

• Certified copy of your South African ID or passport (for international students).
• Matric certificate or equivalent.
• Proof of university admission (if you’ve already been accepted).
• Proof of financial need (such as a recent payslip from your parents/guardians).
• Proof of residence (if applicable).
• Personal motivation letter: Some applicants may be asked to submit a short letter explaining why they wish to become a teacher and how the bursary will help them.

Ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and properly certified before uploading them to avoid delays.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you have completed the application form and uploaded all required documents, carefully review your application to ensure that all the information is correct. After verifying the details, click Submit.

You will receive a confirmation email indicating that your application has been successfully submitted.

Step 5: Track the Status of Your Application

After submitting your application, you can log in to the Funza Lushaka portal to track the status of your application. The portal will notify you if you have been shortlisted for an interview or if any additional documents or information are required.

Keep an eye on your email for updates regarding your application status. Funza Lushaka may also contact you directly if they require further information or documentation.

Step 6: Acceptance and Signing of Agreement

If you are selected for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, you will be asked to sign a bursary agreement. The agreement will outline the terms and conditions of the bursary, including your commitment to teaching in a public school for a specified period.

Key Dates and Deadlines for the Funza Lushaka Bursary

The application period for the Funza Lushaka Bursary typically opens in September and closes around October each year. However, dates may vary, so be sure to check the Funza Lushaka website regularly for official updates on deadlines.

Tips for a Successful Funza Lushaka Bursary Application

1. Start Early: Begin your application early to ensure that you have enough time to gather all the required documents and meet the application deadline.
2. Ensure Your Documents Are Certified: Make sure that all your documents are certified copies, as this is a key requirement for submission.
3. Stay Organized: Keep track of all your application materials and deadlines. Stay organized to ensure you don’t miss any important steps.
4. Show Passion for Teaching: Use your personal motivation letter to explain your passion for teaching and why you are committed to pursuing a career in education.

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a life-changing opportunity for aspiring teachers in South Africa, offering financial assistance and support for those committed to teaching in public schools. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can successfully apply for the bursary and take the first step toward a fulfilling teaching career.

For more information and to begin your application, visit the Funza Lushaka Bursary Portal.