Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary: Requirement & Application Guide

The Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary is a government-funded initiative designed to support South African students pursuing teaching qualifications in priority subjects.

This bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, books, and a living allowance, allowing recipients to focus fully on their studies. Eligible students can apply online to secure funding and launch a teaching career in public schools across South Africa

The Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary, managed by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), aims to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa. The programme funds undergraduate teaching degrees that specialise in at least two priority subject areas identified by the DBE and provincial education departments.

Funded Qualifications Include:

• Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) – 4 years:
  • Foundation Phase (Grade R–3)
  • Intermediate Phase (Grade 4–6)
  • Senior & Further Education and Training Phase (Grade 7–12)
• Early Childhood Care and Education (B.Ed. ECCE) – 4 years

Note: Postgraduate Certificates in Education (PGCE) are not funded for 2026. Subjects in oversupply, such as Accounting, History, Geography, Economics, Business Studies, Physical Education, English, and Afrikaans, are excluded.

Expenses Covered by the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary

Recipients receive comprehensive support, including:

• Tuition fees
• Books and learning materials
• Accommodation and meals
• Teaching practice costs
• Monthly living allowance (depending on tuition costs)

Bursary recipients must teach at a public school for one year for every year of funding received.

Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements:

General Criteria:

• South African citizen with a valid ID
• 30 years or younger for first-time applicants (as of 1 October 2026)
• Accepted into a recognised B.Ed. degree at a South African public university
• Strong academic record
• Willingness to teach at any school assigned by the Provincial Education Department (PED)
• No criminal record or other teaching qualifications

First-Time University Entrants:

• Matric exemption or bachelor’s degree admission
• Minimum Level 4 (50%) in two subjects intended for teaching specialisation
• Foundation Phase: minimum Level 2 (30%) in Mathematics OR Level 4 (50%) in Mathematical Literacy and Level 4 in Home Language
• Intermediate Phase: minimum Level 4 in Mathematics and Home Language
• Senior/FET Phase: Level 4 in two priority subjects, with specific requirements for technical subjects like CAT

Current University Students (2nd–4th Year):

• Minimum 55% average across all modules in the previous year
• Minimum 66.5% average in priority subject areas

How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary

To access, register and apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary the following 9 easy steps should be followed:

NOTE: All first time applicants must be 30 years or younger to apply for Funza Lushaka Bursary.

1. Open the e-Gov portal at www.eservices.gov.za
2. Register by providing personal information
3. Login to the system using user name and password created when registering
4. On the e-Services Menu select Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme
5. Enter the OTP received on the preferred channel
6. Accept the Terms and Conditions
7. On the dashboard menu click on the 2026 application button
8. Follow the steps to complete the required field with your information
9. Accept the declaration to confirm the information captured

Important: Applications submitted after the closing dates will not be considered.

Closing Dates for the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary

• New Applicants: 30 November 2025
• Re-Applications / Returning Students: 24 January 2026

Ensure all applications are submitted before these deadlines to be considered.

Contact Details for the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary

For queries, contact your university’s Funza Lushaka academic and administrative coordinators.

Alternatively, reach the Department of Basic Education:

• Tel: 012 357 3000
• Email: inquiries.funzalushaka@dbe.gov.za

Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary – FAQs

1. What is the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary?
A government-funded bursary providing full support to students pursuing teaching qualifications in priority subjects.

2. Who is eligible for the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary?
South African citizens under 30, with strong academic records and accepted into a B.Ed. programme at a public university.

3. What expenses does the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary cover?
Tuition, books, accommodation, meals, teaching practice, and a monthly living allowance.

4. How do I apply for the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary?
Applications are submitted online via the e-Government Portal.

5. Can I change my institution after applying?
No, applicants cannot change universities once the application is submitted.

6. What is the teaching commitment after graduation?
Recipients must teach at a public school for one year for each year of funding received.

7. Where can I get official information on the Funza Lushaka 2026 Bursary?
Visit the Department of Basic Education website or contact your university’s Funza Lushaka coordinators.

Sources:

• Department of Basic Education
• e-Government Portal