Funza Lushaka Bursary Application 2026 Now Open – A Detailed Guide
The Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity for South African students who aspire to become teachers. Whether you want to educate children in primary or secondary school, the Funza Lushaka Bursary is designed to provide you with the financial support needed to pursue a teaching qualification. This bursary is aimed at addressing the critical shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa, particularly in high-demand subjects such as mathematics, science, and languages.
In this guide, we will provide all the essential details about the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, fields of study supported, and the benefits of being awarded this bursary. If you’re passionate about shaping the future of South Africa through education, this bursary could be the key to unlocking your career as a teacher.
What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a government initiative designed to support South African students who are studying to become educators. This fully-funded bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related expenses for students pursuing a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree or any other teaching qualification at a recognized South African university.
The program is aimed at addressing the growing demand for qualified teachers in South Africa, especially in rural and under-served communities. It supports students who are willing to work in schools in areas where there is a shortage of educators, especially in critical subjects like mathematics, science, technology, and indigenous languages.
Why Should You Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary offers more than just financial aid – it provides a platform for you to build a rewarding career in education. Here are the key benefits of applying for this bursary:
1. Comprehensive Financial Support
The Funza Lushaka Bursary covers the cost of tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and a living allowance. This ensures that you can focus on your studies without worrying about the financial burdens of university education. The bursary also provides support for additional expenses, such as transportation to and from your university.
2. Pathway to a Teaching Career
As a Funza Lushaka bursary holder, you are not only supported financially but also have a clear pathway to becoming a teacher. Once you complete your studies, you will be required to serve as a teacher for a certain number of years in a designated school, typically in areas where there is a shortage of teachers.
3. Critical Subject Support
The bursary prioritizes students who choose to study in critical subject areas, such as mathematics, science, technology, engineering, and languages. If you choose to specialize in these fields, you may be eligible for additional support and may be in higher demand by schools facing a shortage of teachers in these subjects.
4. Contribution to National Development
By becoming a teacher through the Funza Lushaka Bursary, you are playing an important role in the development of South Africa’s education system. Teachers are the foundation of any education system, and through your work, you will be contributing to the intellectual and social development of future generations.
5. Employment Opportunities in Schools
Once you complete your studies, you will have the opportunity to work in both public and private schools throughout South Africa. Many bursary recipients are employed by the Department of Education or other educational institutions across the country, and this could be the start of a long and fulfilling career in teaching.
Fields of Study Supported by the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026
The Funza Lushaka Bursary supports students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) or a similar teaching qualification. The following are the fields of study and specializations eligible for the bursary:
1. Primary School Education
Students who wish to teach at primary school level (Grades R to 7) can apply for the bursary. You can specialize in various subjects such as mathematics, language, science, or social studies.
2. Secondary School Education
If you are interested in teaching at the secondary school level (Grades 8 to 12), the Funza Lushaka Bursary supports students specializing in subjects such as:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Life Sciences
- Geography
- History
- English
- Afrikaans
- Languages
- Technology and Engineering
The Funza Lushaka program prioritizes students in high-demand teaching areas such as mathematics and science.
3. Inclusive Education
If you are interested in becoming a teacher specializing in inclusive education or teaching students with disabilities, you can apply for the bursary. This program supports students pursuing qualifications in special education or related fields.
4. Language Teaching
Given the linguistic diversity of South Africa, students wishing to teach in one of the indigenous languages, such as Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, or Afrikaans, are encouraged to apply. Language teachers are essential in fostering communication and cultural understanding in South African classrooms.
Eligibility Criteria for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026
To apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. These include:
1. South African Citizenship
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is open to South African citizens only. You will need to provide proof of your citizenship through a valid South African ID or birth certificate.
2. Matriculation Certificate or Equivalent
You must have completed your Matric (Grade 12) with a good academic record. If you are applying for a postgraduate teaching qualification, you must hold an undergraduate degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
3. Enrolled in or Accepted by a South African University
You must be currently enrolled or have an unconditional offer of acceptance to study at an accredited South African university or institution. You must be studying or intending to study for a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree or equivalent teaching qualification.
4. Academic Requirements
To be eligible for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, you should have achieved a minimum of a Level 4 (50-59%) pass in Mathematics and Physical Science in Grade 12, depending on the subject you wish to specialize in. Other academic requirements may apply based on the course of study and university regulations.
5. Commitment to Teaching in a Shortage Area
Bursary recipients are required to commit to teaching in a public school for a minimum of one year for every year the bursary is awarded. Preference is given to students who are willing to teach in rural areas or schools that experience teacher shortages, especially in the subjects of mathematics, science, and languages.
6. Financial Need
While the bursary supports students from a range of academic backgrounds, preference is often given to students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Financial need is an important criterion when evaluating applicants.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026
Applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 is simple and can be done online through the official Funza Lushaka Bursary Portal. Follow these steps to complete your application:
Step 1: Register on the Funza Lushaka Portal
Visit the Funza Lushaka Bursary website and create an account. You’ll need a valid email address and your personal details to complete the registration process.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the online application form with accurate information about your personal details, academic history, and the course you intend to study. Be sure to include details about the university you are attending or have been accepted to.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
You will be required to upload the following documents as part of your application:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Matric certificate or proof of matriculation results
- Proof of university acceptance or registration
- Academic transcripts from previous studies (if applicable)
- Proof of financial need (e.g., parent’s/guardian’s income statement)
- Motivation letter outlining your passion for teaching and your long-term career goals
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After completing the form and uploading the required documents, submit your application online. Be sure to double-check everything before submission to avoid any delays.
Step 5: Await Feedback
Once you’ve submitted your application, you will receive an acknowledgment of receipt. Successful applicants will be contacted for further steps, including an interview or verification of documents.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for South African students who are passionate about teaching and want to contribute to the development of the country’s education system. With comprehensive financial support and the chance to work in a career that has a lasting impact, the Funza Lushaka Bursary is an excellent way to launch your teaching career.
If you are ready to make a difference in the lives
of South African learners and fulfill your passion for teaching, don’t hesitate to apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 today. It could be the first step toward a fulfilling and impactful career in education.
