Meta Description:
Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026. Full funding for teaching students pursuing B.Ed. or PGCE at South African universities.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has opened applications for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026, inviting aspiring teachers from across South Africa to apply.
Applications officially open on 7 October 2025 and close on 24 January 2026. The bursary is available to students studying at any of the 26 public universities nationwide.
About the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme 2026
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a prestigious initiative by the Department of Basic Education aimed at promoting teaching as a career and addressing South Africa’s shortage of qualified educators in key learning areas.
This comprehensive bursary supports students enrolled in Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) or Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) programmes, ensuring that future teachers receive the training and support needed to excel in the profession.
Qualifications Covered
The bursary funds the following teaching qualifications:
1. Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) – 4 years
Specialisations include:
- Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)
- Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)
- Senior and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grades 7–12)
2. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – 1 year
- Available for Senior and FET Phases (Grades 7–12).
- Applicants must already hold a suitable undergraduate qualification in at least two priority subjects.
Expenses Covered
The Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 provides full funding that covers:
- Tuition fees
- Registration and examination costs
- Accommodation and meals
- Prescribed books and learning materials
- Monthly living allowance
This makes it one of South Africa’s most comprehensive bursaries for teaching students.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens aged 30 years or younger
- Demonstrate strong academic ability
- Be accepted into an approved B.Ed. or PGCE programme at a public university
- Specialise in at least two priority subjects
- Meet the minimum university entry requirements
Priority Subject Areas
The bursary focuses on developing teachers in high-demand subjects, including:
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Languages (including African languages)
- Accounting
- Agricultural Sciences
- Economics
- Technology
- Geography
These fields address critical teaching shortages in South African schools.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026
Applicants must apply online via the official government e-Services portal.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Visit the e-Gov portal: www.eservices.gov.za
- Register by providing your personal details.
- Log in with your username and password.
- Select “Education” from the e-Services menu.
- Click on “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme.”
- Enter the OTP sent to your chosen contact method.
- Accept the Terms and Conditions.
- Click “2026 Application” on the dashboard.
- Complete all required fields accurately.
- Accept the declaration confirming your information.
Important Notes
- The bursary is renewable each year, subject to satisfactory academic results.
- Recipients must teach in a public school for the same number of years they receive funding.
- Late applications after 24 January 2026 will not be accepted.
Related Links
Final Thoughts
The Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 offers aspiring teachers a life-changing opportunity to gain full financial support while preparing for a rewarding career in education.
If you’re passionate about teaching and ready to make a difference in South Africa’s classrooms, apply now through the official portal and secure your place in the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme 2026.