The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is calling on passionate and aspiring teachers from across South Africa to apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026.
Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 Applications Now Open – Apply Online Today
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme 2026 is now open for applications! If you’re passionate about becoming a teacher in South Africa, this government-funded bursary can help cover the full cost of your education — from tuition and accommodation to textbooks and study materials.
About the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is one of South Africa’s leading teaching bursaries. Managed by the Department of Basic Education, the programme encourages young South Africans to pursue teaching qualifications in priority subject areas by offering full-cost bursaries to eligible students.
The bursary is available for the following qualifications at all 26 public universities in South Africa:
- Bachelor of Education (BEd) – 4-year degree
- Foundation Phase (Grade R–3)
- Intermediate Phase (Grade 4–6)
- Senior and Further Education and Training (Grade 7–12)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – 1-year programme
- Only for Senior and Further Education and Training (Grade 7–12)
Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 Application Dates
Applications for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 opened on 7 October 2025. The closing dates depend on whether you are a new or returning applicant:
- New applicants: 24 January 2026
- Returning bursars: 30 November 2025
Be sure to submit your application before the deadline to avoid missing out.
What Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Cover?
Successful recipients of the Funza Lushaka Bursary receive comprehensive financial support, which includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Books and learning materials
- A small living allowance for monthly expenses
This funding ensures that recipients can focus entirely on their studies without financial stress.
Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be 30 years old or younger
- Must have strong academic performance
- Must be accepted into an approved BEd or PGCE programme
- Must specialise in two or more priority subject areas
- Must meet the minimum academic requirements for admission
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 Online
Follow these steps to complete your online application via the e-Gov portal:
1. Visit the official portal: www.eservices.gov.za
2. Register your profile with your personal details.
3. Log in using your username and password.
4. Select the “Education” tab from the e-Services menu.
5. Click on “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme.”
6. Enter the OTP sent to your preferred communication channel.
7. Accept the Terms and Conditions.
8. On the dashboard, select “2026 Application.”
9. Complete all required fields with accurate information.
10. Review and accept the declaration to confirm your application.
Once your application is submitted, you will receive confirmation via email or SMS.
Why Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The Funza Lushaka Programme is more than just financial assistance — it’s a commitment to improving education in South Africa. In exchange for funding, recipients agree to teach at a public school for the same number of years they received the bursary, ensuring that quality educators reach every community.