Hey future educators! 🤩 Ready to kickstart an amazing career shaping young minds without worrying about university fees? Well, you’re in luck! We’re diving into one of South Africa’s most incredible opportunities: the Funza Lushaka Bursary for 2026! This bursary isn’t just about covering costs; it’s about empowering YOU to become a top-notch teacher and make a real difference in our country. If you’ve dreamt of teaching, this is your golden ticket!
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a super important programme from the South African government designed to boost teaching as a career. It aims to get more passionate young South Africans into classrooms, especially in subjects where we really need qualified teachers. Basically, it gives you comprehensive funding to study for a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at any of our 26 public universities. Think of it as a helping hand to get your degree and start your journey as an educator!
Who Can Apply?
Want to know if you’re eligible for this awesome opportunity? Here’s who can apply:
- You must be a South African citizen – no exceptions!
- You need to be 30 years of age or younger when you apply.
- Show us your strong academic ability – good grades definitely help!
- You must already be accepted into an approved B.Ed. or PGCE programme at one of the 26 public universities. Make sure your programme specialises in at least two priority subjects (we’ll list those below!).
- Meet the minimum academic entry requirements set by your chosen university.
Qualifications Supported
The Funza Lushaka Bursary supports students pursuing these vital teaching qualifications:
1. Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) – 4 years
This degree covers various phases, so you can specialise in what you love:
- Foundation Phase (Grade R – 3): Shaping the very first steps of learning.
- Intermediate Phase (Grade 4 – 6): Guiding students through crucial developmental years.
- Senior and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grade 7 – 12): Preparing students for high school and beyond.
2. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – 1 year
This is for those who already have an undergraduate degree and want to become teachers in:
- Senior Phase and FET Phase (Grades 7–12) only.
- You must hold an appropriate undergraduate qualification with at least two priority subject areas that the country needs.
Priority Subject Areas
Funza Lushaka especially looks for future teachers in subjects that are currently in high demand across South Africa. If you’re passionate about any of these, you’re on the right track:
- Mathematics
- Languages (including African languages)
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Accounting
- Agricultural Sciences
- Economics
- Technology
- Geography
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just a partial bursary; the Funza Lushaka Bursary is a fully funded opportunity! Here’s what it typically covers, taking a huge financial burden off your shoulders:
- Tuition fees: Yep, your university fees are sorted!
- Accommodation (including meals): Room and board, so you can focus on your studies.
- Books and learning materials: All the resources you need to excel.
- Registration and examination fees: No hidden costs there!
- Allowance for monthly living expenses: A little extra to help you through the month.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump in? Applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 is super straightforward. Just follow these easy steps online:
- Step 1: Head over to the e-Gov portal: www.eservices.gov.za
- Step 2: Register by providing your personal details. It’s quick and easy!
- Step 3: Log in using your brand-new username and password.
- Step 4: On the e-Services menu, find and select “Education.”
- Step 5: Click on “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme.”
- Step 6: You’ll get an OTP (One-Time Pin) sent to your phone or email. Enter it to continue.
- Step 7: Read and accept the Terms and Conditions.
- Step 8: On your dashboard, click on the 2026 Application button.
- Step 9: Fill in all the required fields with accurate information. Double-check everything!
- Step 10: Accept the declaration to confirm that all your information is correct and submit your application!
Important Notes to Remember
- This bursary is renewable annually, but you need to keep up that awesome academic performance!
- A key part of the deal is that recipients will be required to teach in a public school in South Africa for the same number of years they received funding. It’s your chance to give back!
- Don’t leave it too late! Applications submitted after the official closing dates will not be considered. Mark your calendars!
So, if becoming a qualified teacher and making a real impact sounds like your dream, the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 is calling your name! Don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity. Get your application in before the 24 January 2026 deadline! And while you’re here, why not explore more fantastic bursaries on Bursaries Room? Your future is waiting!
