This government-funded bursary is managed by the Department of Basic Education and supports students studying approved teaching qualifications at selected South African universities. It is regarded as one of the country’s most important teacher-development funding programmes because it helps address teacher shortages in critical subjects and learning areas.
The bursary can cover major study-related expenses including tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, meals, and allowances depending on approved funding.
Overview of the Funza Lushaka Bursary
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is funded by the South African government and focuses specifically on teaching qualifications.
The programme is available to:
- Grade 12 learners
- university students studying education
- graduates planning to complete a PGCE
- students transitioning into teaching qualifications
Applications are completed online through the official Funza Lushaka Bursary Portal.
Students who receive funding are generally required to teach at South African public schools after graduation as part of the programme agreement.
What Is the Purpose of the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The Department of Basic Education introduced the bursary to help increase the number of qualified teachers in areas where schools face shortages.
Priority teaching areas often include:
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Technology
- African Languages
- Foundation Phase Teaching
- Special Needs Education
- Technical Subjects
The programme is not simply financial aid with no obligations attached. It is a teacher development initiative linked to future public school service.
What the Bursary May Cover
Funding may assist with:
- registration fees
- tuition costs
- accommodation
- meals
- books
- study materials
- monthly allowances where applicable
The final funding amount depends on:
- university costs
- available government funding
- approved student budgets
- study-related expenses
Payments are normally made directly to the university.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is open to South African citizens who want to pursue careers in teaching.
Applicants may include:
- current Grade 12 learners
- students already studying education
- graduates wanting to complete a PGCE
- students changing qualifications into education
Applicants must generally:
- be accepted or applying at a recognised university
- study an approved teaching qualification
- demonstrate acceptable academic performance
- show commitment to becoming teachers
Qualifications Usually Funded
The programme generally supports:
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Funding is usually limited to approved South African universities.
Academic Requirements
Requirements may vary slightly depending on the year and funding priorities.
Grade 12 Learners
Strong academic performance is usually expected in:
- Mathematics
- Languages
- subjects linked to the chosen teaching specialisation
University Students
Current university students are generally expected to:
- maintain satisfactory academic progress
- pass most modules
- demonstrate good overall academic performance
Students with weak academic records may struggle to secure funding approval.
Documents Required for the Application
Applicants should prepare certified copies of the following:
- South African ID document
- latest academic results
- Matric certificate if completed
- proof of university application or acceptance
- academic transcripts for university students
- proof of residence if requested
Documents should be:
- clear
- readable
- complete
- correctly certified where necessary
Incomplete applications are often rejected.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary
Register on the Official Portal
Applicants must create an account on the official Funza Lushaka online application system using:
- ID number
- cellphone number
- email address
- password
It is important to use active contact details because updates are normally sent electronically.
Verify Your Profile
Applicants may need to complete:
- email verification
- OTP verification
before accessing the full application system.
Complete the Online Application
The application form requires information such as:
- personal details
- contact information
- academic history
- university details
- teaching specialisation preferences
Applicants should ensure all information is accurate.
Upload Supporting Documents
Documents are usually uploaded in formats such as:
- JPEG
- PNG
Files should be clear and easy to read.
Review Before Submitting
Before final submission:
- check all personal details
- confirm uploaded documents
- verify email address and cellphone number
Submit the Application
After submission, applicants should:
- save their reference number
- keep screenshots if possible
- store copies of uploaded documents safely
This may help if support is needed later.
How Applications Are Assessed
Applications are usually evaluated based on:
- academic performance
- priority teaching areas
- provincial teacher shortages
- available funding
Meeting minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee approval because competition is often high.
What Happens After Approval?
Successful applicants may receive:
- bursary agreements
- registration instructions
- funding confirmation
Students should carefully read all terms and conditions before accepting the bursary.
CLICK THIS LINK TO APPLY FOR THIS BURSARY
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