Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027: Requirements, Deadline and Application
Are you looking to become a teacher but need some financial assistance? The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme provides funding to eligible South Africans wanting to gain an approved teaching qualification.
Managed by the Department of Basic Education, the aim of the scheme is to attract more qualified teachers in subjects that are needed in South African schools. There is competition for funding so there are certain academic, admission and selection requirements.
This guide outlines the requirements for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027, what it covers, how to apply and important terms to know.
Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027: Key Information
Programme name: Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
Year: 2027
Application type: Online
New applicants: 31 January 2027
Existing bursary holders: 30 November 2026
Age (new): Should be 30 or younger
Study: Eligible initial teacher education qualifications in priority subjects
Applications opened on 1 October 2026. Always double check the latest information on the official Funza Lushaka website. [turn492893search0]
What Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Cover?
The bursary can cover approved study related costs, depending on scheme guidelines, how much you receive and the institution.
Some of the costs that may be covered are:
Tuition fees
Accommodation or travel
Food
Prescribed textbooks and learning material
Personal care allowance
Teaching Practice
Not all costs will necessarily be covered so it is best to contact your universities financial aid department to ask about what will be covered in the approved funding package.
Who Can Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The bursary is for eligible South African students who want to qualify as a teacher.
This can include:
Grade 12 learners
Graduates (under 30) wanting an eligible teaching qualification
Unemployed young people who meet the requirements
People (under 30) wanting to change career and become teachers.
Those applying for the first time should be under 30 years old and have a valid South African ID number. You must also meet the admission requirements of your university and the selection criteria.
You will generally need to have been admitted onto an eligible teaching qualification at an accredited public university. Even if you meet the minimum requirements you are not guaranteed a bursary as it will depend on your academic ability, priority subjects and funding availability. [turn492893search2]
What Teaching Qualifications are Funded?
The scheme will fund eligible initial teacher education qualifications such as:
Bachelor of Education (BEd)
A Bachelor of Education is a degree that will qualify you to teach in specific phases of schooling. You should ensure that your chosen BEd and teaching specialism meets the current requirements.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Eligible funding is available for those wishing to complete a PGCE in specific phases of teaching such as Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET).
The bursary will prioritise certain subjects where teachers are needed. Priority subjects can change so ensure that you are applying for a qualification in one of the current subjects.
For official information visit the Funza Lushaka programme website. https://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/Home/FAQ
Required Documentation
Depending on your situation you may need to provide:
South African ID details
Grade 12 results or academic records
University application/admission/student number
Contact details (including an easy to reach cell number and email address)
Any additional forms or documents requested.
You may have to apply for admission to your university separately. Ensure that your chosen qualification is eligible for funding. Ensure that all your information is accurate and that you can access your application.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027
Applications are made online through the government e-Services website.
Step 1: Visit the official site
Visit the Funza Lushaka website [https://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/Home/] or e-Government services [https://www.eservices.gov.za/].
Step 2: Create an account or sign in
If you don’t have an account create one. If you do have an account sign in.
Step 3: Choose Funza Lushaka
Select the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme from the e-Services menu. Follow the prompts including verifying your one time password.
Step 4: Choose 2027
Select the 2027 option.
Step 5: Complete your application
Carefully enter your personal and academic information. Ensure that your details and teaching qualification are correct.
Step 6: Submit
Read through the terms and conditions. Double check your information and tick the box to agree to the declaration. Save a copy of your application.
If you need further guidance follow the official application guidelines. [https://www.education.gov.za/Programmes/FunzaLushaka/FLApplicationProcess.aspx]
Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027 Deadline
There are two different deadlines:
New applicants: 31 January 2027
Existing/returning bursary holders: 30 November 2026
Those who are returning bursary holders should be mindful of the earlier deadline. Don’t leave it until the last minute to apply/reapply. Always check the official site for any changes.
Teaching Commitment
The Funza Lushaka Bursary has a commitment attached. Generally those who are successful will be required to teach in a public school for the same amount of years that they received the bursary funding.
Placement will be managed by the Provincial Education Departments and you cannot be assured that you will be placed at your preferred school. Carefully read through the bursary agreement to understand your commitments. [turn492893search2][turn492893search3]
How to Avoid Bursary Scams
Always apply through official government channels. The application is done online so don’t pay someone unofficial who claims they can guarantee your application.
Don’t give anyone your password, banking pin or one time password. Always double check any announcements on the official site. Avoid any suspicious links from social media or messaging groups.
Final Tips
The Funza Lushaka Bursary can be a great opportunity for eligible students wanting to become teachers in South Africa. Ensure that you meet the age, academic, university admission and priority subject requirements.
Ensure that you check the latest information on the official application site and apply before the deadline. Be aware of the teaching commitment.
Job Opportunities SA provides information on education funding to assist you in finding legitimate opportunities. We do not offer bursaries or guarantee your application.
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