Funza Lushaka Bursary Application form, Requirements and How to Apply

One sure way to turn your finances around in the university is to apply for a bursary. Depending on their financial aid packages, they may cover only part of your expenses or all of them.

In this article, we will be talking about one of South Africa’s best bursary providers, the Funza Lushaka Bursary. Read the full article to learn more about this opportunity.

What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a government-funded program aimed at addressing the critical shortage of skilled educators in South Africa.

Established in 2007, it provides full financial support for students pursuing Bachelor of Education (BEd) or Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) qualifications in priority subject areas.

These include: Mathematics, Science, Technology, Engineering, Languages (English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa), Commercial subjects, and Special Needs Education.

In addition to covering tuition fees and textbooks, the bursary also provides a generous living allowance, taking off the student’s financial burdens and allowing recipients to focus fully on their studies.

Funza Lushaka Bursary Application form

The Funza Lushaka Bursary application is conducted online through the eGov portal.

Note that first-time applicants must be under 30 years old. The form will require you to provide details such as:

  • Personal information (ID number, contact details)
  • Academic information (previous qualifications, admission confirmation for BEd/PGCE program)
  • Subject choices (prioritize two priority subject areas)
  • Financial information (household income, proof of financial need)
  • Supporting documentation (certified copies of academic transcripts, ID document, etc.)

Funza Lushaka Bursary Requirements

To be eligible for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. South African citizenship
  2. 30 years or younger at the time of application
  3. Admission to a BEd or PGCE program at an accredited South African university
  4. Minimum 55% average in your last year of study
  5. Minimum 66.5% average in modules relevant to your chosen priority subject area
  6. Commitment to teach in a public school for a minimum period of four years after graduation

How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility by meeting the requirements, head to the eGov portal and follow these steps to go through the application process:

  1. Register by creating an account if you haven’t already.
  2. Log in using your username and password to access the portal.
  3. Select the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme under the “e-Services” menu.
  4. Enter the one-time password (OTP). You’ll receive this via your preferred channel (SMS or email).
  5. Accept the terms and conditions. Review and agree to the terms before proceeding.
  6. Click on the “2024 application button.” This will open the application form.
  7. Fill in all required information accurately and comprehensively.
  8. Upload certified copies of your academic transcripts, ID document, proof of admission, and any other requested documents.
  9. Double-check your application for any errors before submitting it.