Right now, many South African students are trying to find a way into teaching without sinking into debt. If you want to study education but cannot pay for university costs on your own, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is one of the most important options to check first.
This government bursary helps future teachers study at approved South African universities. It can cover major study costs, and in return, you must teach at a public school after you graduate. Many applicants struggle with the paperwork, the rules, and the competition, so it helps to understand everything before you apply.
What the Funza Lushaka Bursary Is
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme was created by the Department of Basic Education to help solve the shortage of teachers in South Africa. It is meant for students who want to become teachers and are willing to work in public schools after qualifying.
This bursary is not for any course. It only supports teaching qualifications. It is also focused on subjects that schools need most, especially in areas where there are too few qualified teachers.
Priority teaching areas usually include:
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Technology
- African Languages
- Foundation Phase Teaching
- Special Needs Education
- Technical Subjects
If you receive this bursary, you are agreeing to join the public education system after your studies. That is why it is important to apply only if teaching is the career you truly want.
Quick Overview
| Item | Details |
| Bursary Name | Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme |
| Funded By | South African Government |
| Managed By | Department of Basic Education |
| Covers | Tuition, accommodation, books, meals and stipend |
| Study Fields | Teaching qualifications only |
| Institutions | Selected South African universities |
| Who Can Apply | Matriculants, university students and graduates entering teaching |
| Service Obligation | Graduates must teach at public schools |
| Application Method | Online |
| Official Website | Funza Lushaka Bursary Portal |
Who Can Apply
The bursary is open to South African citizens who want to study teaching at a recognised university. You must either be applying for a teaching qualification or already studying one.
You can usually apply if you are:
- A South African citizen
- Interested in becoming a teacher
- Accepted or applying to study teaching at a recognised university
- Studying a Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Studying a PGCE qualification
- Performing well academically
The bursary is usually open to:
- Current Grade 12 learners
- University students already studying teaching
- Graduates who want to complete a PGCE
- Students changing into education from another study path
Remember, meeting these points does not mean you will automatically get funding. There are many applications every year, and places are limited.
Teaching qualifications that usually qualify
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Funding is normally given only for approved programmes at selected public universities in South Africa.
Academic requirements
The exact rules can change each year, but applicants usually need good academic results.
If you are still in Grade 12, strong marks in these subjects may help:
- Mathematics
- Languages
- Subjects linked to your teaching specialisation
If you are already at university, you usually need:
- Good academic performance
- Passing most or all modules
- Satisfactory progress in your degree
Students with poor marks or repeated failures may find it harder to be approved.
What the Bursary Can Cover
The Funza Lushaka Bursary can help with important study costs. This is why many students see it as a major support system during university.
It may cover:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Learning materials
- Books
- A small monthly allowance where applicable
The exact amount depends on your university, your study costs, the approved budget, and available funding. In most cases, the money is paid directly to the university.
Documents You Need
Before you start the application, make sure your documents are ready. Missing or unclear documents are one of the main reasons applications are rejected.
Prepare certified copies of:
- South African ID document
- Latest academic results
- Matric certificate, if you have completed Grade 12
- Proof of university admission or application
- Academic transcripts, if you are already at university
- Proof of residence, if requested
Make sure all scans or photos are clear and easy to read.
How to Apply Step by Step
The application is done online only. Do not trust people who say they can “speed up” your application for money.
Step 1: Visit the official portal
Go to the official site: Funza Lushaka Bursary Portal
Step 2: Register an account
Create your profile using your:
- ID number
- Email address
- Mobile number
- Password
Use a cellphone number and email account that you check often. The department may send updates there.
Step 3: Verify your account
You may receive an OTP code or an email verification link. Complete this step before you continue.
Step 4: Log in
Once your account is verified, sign in and choose the Funza Lushaka Bursary option.
Step 5: Complete the application form
Fill in your:
- Personal details
- Contact information
- Academic history
- University details
- Teaching specialisation choices
Be honest and accurate. Do not leave out important information.
Step 6: Upload your documents
Upload all required documents in the correct format. The files must be clear and readable. Blurry documents can cause delays or rejection.
Step 7: Review everything
Before you submit, check your details carefully. Make sure your phone number, email address, and uploaded documents are correct.
Step 8: Submit the application
After submission, save your reference number. If possible, keep screenshots and copies of everything you uploaded.
How Selection Usually Works
The department looks at several things before deciding. This includes your marks, the teaching subjects you choose, available funding, and the education needs in each province.
Even if you meet the minimum requirements, you may still not get funding. That is because the bursary is competitive.
What Happens If You Are Approved
If your application is successful, you may receive a bursary agreement, funding confirmation, and instructions for registration. Read all the documents carefully before you accept anything.
The bursary comes with an important service rule. After you finish studying, you are usually expected to teach at a public school for the same number of years that you received funding.
For example, if you were funded for 4 years, you may have a 4-year teaching obligation.
The government may place you where teachers are needed most. You may not always choose your own placement.
What Happens If You Do Not Follow the Rules
This bursary is a serious agreement. If you do not meet the conditions, you may have to repay the money.
This can happen if you:
- Drop out of your studies
- Fail repeatedly
- Refuse placement
- Do not complete your teaching obligation
That is why you must read the contract properly before signing.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
You cannot control every part of the process, but you can improve your application.
- Choose priority subjects
Subjects that South African schools need most may give you a better chance. - Keep your marks strong
Good academic results are very important. - Apply early
Do not wait until the last minute. - Upload the right documents
Missing papers can lead to rejection. - Use official information only
Ignore scams and fake pages that promise guaranteed approval.
Common Reasons Applications Are Rejected
Many students lose out because of small mistakes. The most common problems are:
- Incorrect information
- Poor academic performance
- Missing documents
- Invalid ID numbers
- Ineligible qualifications
- Late applications
Take your time and check every part of your form before you submit.
Universities Commonly Linked to Funza Lushaka
Funding is often linked to approved institutions such as:
- University of Pretoria
- University of Johannesburg
- University of South Africa
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- North-West University
Funding can differ from one university and programme to another, so always check the official rules.
Can NSFAS and Funza Lushaka Be Used Together?
In many cases, students funded by Funza Lushaka cannot receive NSFAS funding for the same qualification costs at the same time.
However, funding rules can change. You should confirm this with your university financial aid office before making any decision.
Scam Warning
There are many fake bursary adverts online. Some people try to trick students into paying for forms or “guaranteed placement.” Be careful.
Remember these rules:
- The real application is online through official government systems
- No one can guarantee approval
- You should never pay someone to apply for you
- Official departments do not sell application forms
Only use the official government website and your university’s financial aid office for confirmation.
Final Advice
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is one of the best opportunities for South African students who want to become teachers and need financial help. It can reduce the pressure of university costs and give you a clear path into a real career.
But you should apply only if you are serious about teaching. The work needs patience, leadership, communication skills, and a strong commitment to helping learners and communities.
If teaching is the path you want, prepare your documents early, check the requirements carefully, and apply through the official portal only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Funza Lushaka a loan or a bursary?
It is a bursary, but it comes with a service obligation after graduation.
Can private university students apply?
The bursary mainly supports approved public universities.
Can I apply while still in Grade 12?
Yes, Grade 12 learners can apply.
Does Funza Lushaka pay for accommodation?
Yes, approved study-related costs may be covered.
Can UNISA students apply?
Yes, if the teaching qualification is eligible and approved.
How long does approval take?
Processing times differ depending on the number of applications and verification checks.
Can I choose where I will work after graduation?
Placement depends on public education needs and government decisions.
Disclaimer
This article is for information only. Requirements, funding rules, qualifying programmes, and closing dates can change at any time. Always confirm details through the official bursary portal and your university financial aid office before you apply.
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