Bursary 2026
Teaching Bursary Application Guide — DBE South Africa
One of the most popular and reliable government funding schemes for those who want to become teachers in South Africa is the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme.
Funza Lushaka is a South African government bursary scheme run by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and funded through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The aim is simple- to train bright young people to teach the subjects that have a teacher shortage in the country’s Schools.
It is not an ordinary loan; rather, it is a “service-linked” bursary.
This means that if you teach in a public school for a specified period after completing your studies, you do not have to repay the funding.
Funza Lushaka at a Glance
What Expenses Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Cover
The Funza Lushaka Bursary program covers most of the required costs for a student studying to become a teacher. These includes:-
Tuition Fees
Full or approved tuition fees for the university course are covered.
Accommodation
The cost of University hostels or approved accommodation is covered.
Meals
The cost of meals are provided.
Books and Learning Materials
Funding is provided for textbooks, study guides, and other essential learning materials.
Teaching and Practice Costs
Expenses incurred during compulsory Teaching Practice or Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in schools are covered.
Monthly Living Allowance
Small monthly allowance may be provided for personal daily expenses, depending on the university’s cost structure.
Important Note
If the University Fees Are Higher Than the Bursary Cap
In order to become a teacher through the Funza Lushaka bursary, there is a maximum cap which is set for the payment of the actual fees in the institution chosen.
Fees Below the Cap
In case the costs of tuition in a university are less than that cap, then the full cost is met by the DBE.
Fees Above the Cap
However, in case the costs are higher, then the extra amount is paid by the student.
Important Reminder
So it’s wise to check the fee structure before choosing a university.
Priority Subjects in Different Phases
Funza Lushaka mainly funds subjects where there is a shortage of school teachers. Subjects such as History, Geography, Accounting, Economics, Business Studies, EMS, Life Orientation, and Physical Education are not funded because there is already an adequate supply of teachers in these fields. Low-demand subjects such as Religious Studies, Music, Dance, and Art are also excluded.
Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)
At this stage, proficiency in Mathematics and Home Language is prioritized, as these subjects are essential for building a child’s foundational skills. SA sign language and neurodevelopment are also focused on.
Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)
There is a high demand for teachers of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology, and South Africa’s Indigenous Languages.
Senior and FET Phase (Grades 7–12)
Technical subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Agricultural Sciences, Civil Technology, Electrical Technology and Computer Applications Technology (CAT) are given priority here.
Eligibility and Requirements
Checklist for Funza Lushaka Application
Certified ID
Photocopy of your South African or Smart ID
School/Academic Record
Photocopy of your certified matric results or latest transcript
University Letter
Photocopy of your acceptance or conditional acceptance letter that carries your student number
B.Ed Proof
Proof of registration for B.Ed or proof of application
Application Form
Photocopy of your printed Funza Lushaka online application
Police Clearance
SAPS clearance certificate stating you have no criminal record
All photocopies must be certified before submission.
How to Apply
The Funza Lushaka application process is completely online. Handwritten application forms are not accepted.
University Admission
First, confirm your admission to a university in a B.Ed. or B.Ed. ECCE programme (even if it is provisional) and collect your student number.
Online Application
Secondly, Go to the Funza Lushaka or eServices website and fill out the online application form.
Complete the Form
Then, Click the “2026 Application” button on your dashboard. Fill in every field accurately: your name must be exactly as it appears on your ID, your student number must be valid, and your chosen subjects must be priority areas. Accept the declaration and verify your information.
Submit Documents
Last, submit a printed copy of your application, along with certified copies of your ID, Matric certificate, and academic records, to the Funza Lushaka office at your university.
After submitting your application, you cannot change your university, so think carefully before making your decision. If you have any questions or problems, contact your university’s Funza Lushaka coordinator instead of contacting the DBE or NSFAS directly. The application period is fixed every year, and no applications will be accepted after the deadline. Therefore, the official DBE website should be checked regularly.
If You Don’t Teach as Per the Bond
The most important condition of this bursary is the “service obligation” or commitment to work.
Apply for a Teaching Job
Within 6 months of completing your degree, you must actively apply for a teaching job at a public School and provide proof of your applications.
Teaching Obligation
You must teach in public schools for the same number of years that you received the bursary.
Failure to Comply
If someone changes their priority subject without approval, or fails to fulfill the teaching obligation, the bursary will be cancelled and the full amount must be repaid with interest.
Interest Rate
The interest rate is set according to the rate determined by NSFAS.
Related Post
- SEDFA Support Programmes (SEDA)
- Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI)
- NYDA Grant Programme
- Global Agriculture and Food Security Program
- REIPPPP Renewable Energy IPP
- Section 12B / 12BA Tax Allowances
- EEDSM Programme
- Blended Finance Scheme
- Agro Energy Fund (AEF)
- South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)
- Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP)
- Ilima/Letsema Programme
- National Research Foundation (NRF)
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1Is the Funza Lushaka bursary open to everyone?
2Is the bursary available for PGCE courses?
3Do you have to pay the bursary money back?
4Is the bursary guaranteed if you apply once?
5Can you change universities after applying?
6How long after completing your degree do you have to apply for a job?
Important Note
Bursary requirements, deadlines and priority areas may change each year. For the latest and most up-to-date information, always visit funzalushaka.doe.gov.za or the official website of the Department of Basic Education.