Want to start a teaching career and need financial support? The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is open for South African students who want to study teaching for the 2027 academic year. This is the fastest way to secure funding while committing to serve in a public school.
What the bursary is
The Department of Basic Education runs the Funza Lushaka Bursary to promote teaching as a profession. NSFAS manages the money. If you receive the bursary you must teach in a public school for a period that matches the years you were funded.
Who can apply
- South African citizens who want to become qualified teachers.
- First‑time applicants must be 30 years old or younger.
- Current Grade 12 learners, university graduates, career changers or unemployed people who meet the admission criteria of an approved teacher‑education programme.
- You must be accepted into a public higher‑education institution that offers an eligible qualification.
What you will receive
The bursary can cover, depending on the institution’s cost structure and the programme cap:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Books and learning materials
- Teaching‑practice expenses (where applicable)
- Living allowance
Any costs above the funding limit remain the student’s responsibility.
Qualified teaching qualifications
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET) teaching
Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) is not funded.
Priority subjects
Foundation Phase
- Foundation Phase teaching
- South African Indigenous Languages
- Neurodevelopment needs
- Braille
- South African Sign Language
Intermediate & Senior Phase
- Languages
- Mathematics
- Natural Science
- Technology
FET Phase
- Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Technology, Civil Technology
- Computer Applications Technology, Electrical Technology, Engineering Graphics & Design
- Geography, Information Technology, Life Sciences, Mathematics, Mechanical Technology
- Physical Sciences, Languages, Maritime Studies, Coding & Robotics, Technical Mathematics, Technical Science
Priority subjects may change according to teacher‑demand.
Key dates and location
- Application opening: 01 October 2026
- New applicant deadline: 31 January 2027
- Returning bursar deadline: 30 November 2026
- Study location: Any public higher‑education institution in South Africa
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Go to the official e‑Government portal.
- Register with your personal details.
- Log in using the username and password you created.
- Select “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme”.
- Enter the OTP you receive on your chosen channel.
- Read and accept the terms and conditions.
- Choose the 2027 application.
- Complete every required field accurately.
- Review all information for mistakes.
- Accept the declaration and submit.
Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027
Tips to improve your chances
- Secure your university admission first – the bursary does not guarantee a place.
- Apply early; late submissions are not considered.
- Double‑check that your chosen programme is on the approved list.
- Prepare all supporting documents (ID, proof of South African citizenship, academic records) before you start.
- Read the service‑obligation clause carefully – you will need to teach for as many years as you were funded.
- Keep your login details safe for future reference.
Next steps after you are awarded
If you receive the bursary, you must maintain the academic standards set by the university and the Department of Basic Education. After graduation you will be assigned to a public school for a teaching period that matches the years of funding you received.
Frequently asked questions
When did applications open?
01 October 2026.
When do new applications close?
31 January 2027.
When must returning bursars reapply?
30 November 2026.
Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes, if they plan to study an eligible teaching qualification and meet the admission criteria.
Can graduates apply?
Yes, provided they satisfy the age limit and programme requirements.
Does the bursary fund PGCE students?
It may fund an approved PGCE for Senior Phase and FET teaching, subject to eligibility and priority subjects.
Do recipients have to teach after graduation?
Yes, a teaching service obligation in a public school is mandatory.
Is Funza Lushaka the same as NSFAS?
No. Funza Lushaka is a teaching bursary managed by the Department of Basic Education. NSFAS only administers the funds on the department’s behalf.
Take the first step today. Check the dates, gather your documents, and submit your application before the deadline. Your future as a qualified teacher could start right now.
