Are you a Grade 12 learner or a young South African with a passion for education and a desire to shape future generations? The prestigious Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is set to open applications for the 2027 academic year on 1 October 2026. This comprehensive government bursary, funded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), is designed to attract and support academically gifted individuals to become qualified teachers, particularly in subjects and phases where there is a critical shortage of educators in public schools.
If you're aiming for a rewarding career in teaching, the Funza Lushaka Bursary offers a pathway to achieving a recognised teaching qualification with full financial support. Read on to discover if you're eligible and how to apply for this life-changing opportunity.
What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a national initiative established by the South African government to address the persistent shortage of qualified teachers in public schools. It specifically targets talented individuals who wish to pursue a career in teaching, with a strong emphasis on filling needs in priority subject areas and educational phases. By investing in aspiring educators, the programme aims to improve the quality of education offered in public schools across the country.
Successful applicants receive a full bursary, covering all essential study-related expenses. In return for this significant investment, recipients are required to commit to a service obligation, meaning they must work as a teacher in a public school after graduation for a period equivalent to the duration of the bursary award. This ensures that the benefits of the bursary directly contribute to strengthening the public education system.
Who Can Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027?
Eligibility Criteria for 2027 Applicants:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- First-time applicants must be under the age of 30.
- Must have achieved an 'Admission to Bachelor Degree Studies' pass in Grade 12 (Matric) with your National Senior Certificate (NSC).
- A minimum of a Level 4 (50%) pass is required in two matric subjects that are directly related to your chosen teaching specialisation/priority area.
- Must meet the general university admission requirements for a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree.
- Applicants must not hold any other teaching qualification when applying.
- Must not have a criminal record, particularly any convictions related to sexual or child offenses.
Which Qualifications Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Support?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary primarily supports the pursuit of a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree, which is the standard qualification for teachers in South Africa. The funded qualifications are specifically geared towards:
- Foundation Phase Teaching: Specialising in teaching Grade R to Grade 3 learners.
- Intermediate Phase Teaching: Specialising in teaching Grade 4 to Grade 6 learners.
- Senior and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase Teaching: Specialising in teaching Grade 7 to Grade 12 learners.
[VERIFY: While the bursary has historically supported Postgraduate Certificates in Education (PGCE) for graduates in priority areas, funding for PGCEs may vary annually. Applicants should verify current support for PGCE qualifications directly with the DBE or their chosen university.]
It's important to note that the bursary does not fund extended programmes or qualifications that are not explicitly listed.
Priority Subject Areas for Funza Lushaka Bursaries
To effectively address teacher shortages in critical areas, the Funza Lushaka Bursary prioritises specific subject specialisations. Approximately 75% of the funding is allocated to Foundation Phase teaching specialisations. These priority areas include:
- Foundation Phase: Specialisation is encouraged, with a preference for South African Indigenous Languages, Neurodevelopment Needs, Braille, and South African Sign Language (SASL).
- Intermediate, Senior, and FET Phases: Priority is given to teaching qualifications in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Technology, Accounting, Economics, Business Studies, and South African Indigenous Languages (excluding English and Afrikaans).
What Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Cover?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a comprehensive, full-cost bursary designed to alleviate financial barriers to pursuing a teaching career. It typically covers the following:
- Full tuition fees for the BEd programme.
- Accommodation costs (or a contribution towards transport if living at home).
- Prescribed study materials and textbooks.
- Support for mandatory teaching practice periods.
- A modest allowance to assist with general living expenses.
Please note that the bursary value is capped per institution, ensuring a degree of equity across different public universities.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027
Step 1: Secure University Admission First
The very first step is to apply for and gain admission to a BEd degree programme at a recognised South African public university. You must ensure that your chosen programme aligns with one of the priority subject areas supported by the bursary and that you meet all the university's academic entry requirements.
Step 2: Submit Your Funza Lushaka Bursary Application
Applications for the 2027 academic year officially open on 1 October 2026. Prospective students have two primary avenues for application:
- Through Your Chosen University: Most applicants will apply via the financial aid office of the university where they have secured or are applying for admission.
- DBE eServices Portal: You may also be able to apply directly through the Department of Basic Education's eServices portal at eservices.gov.za. Ensure you navigate to the Funza Lushaka application section.
The closing dates for the 2027 intake are typically around late January to early February of the following year. It is crucial to regularly check the official Funza Lushaka website (www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za) and your university’s announcements for the exact closing dates and any updates.
Important Note for Re-applicants: Existing bursars usually have an earlier deadline, typically closing around late November.
Understanding the Service Obligation and Renewal
A core component of the Funza Lushaka Bursary is the service obligation. Upon completion of your studies, you are committed to teaching in a South African public school for a period equivalent to the length of your bursary award. This is the government's method of ensuring that the investment in your education directly benefits the public education sector.
The bursary is awarded on an annual basis and requires renewal each academic year. To maintain your bursary, you must demonstrate satisfactory academic progress. This typically involves achieving a minimum overall average of 55% and a minimum of 66.5% in your major/priority subjects each year. Failure to meet these academic requirements may result in the termination of the bursary.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme represents an outstanding opportunity for driven individuals aspiring to become teachers in South Africa. By offering comprehensive financial support, it removes a significant barrier for many who wish to pursue a career dedicated to educating the nation's youth, especially in areas of high demand.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about making a difference through teaching, particularly in a priority subject area, now is the time to prepare. Mark 1 October 2026 in your calendar to begin your application process and take the first step towards a fulfilling and impactful career in education.
