Guide to the Funza Lushaka Bursary

Did you know that by 2030, there will be a severe 30,000 teacher shortage in South Africa? There has never been a greater need for passionate, skilled teachers. The Funza Lushaka Bursary may be your chance to get a rewarding career in education if you would like to teach but are limited by a lack of funds.

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a flagship initiative by the South African government that provides financial aid to students who are pursuing teaching degrees. By paying tuition, accommodation, and other critical fees, this program aims to attract and train dedicated educators who will contribute to the country’s schooling system, especially in high-demand disciplines and rural locations.

This guide offers 2025 applicants like you a comprehensive and accurate resource. This page will guide you through the eligibility requirements, application process, benefits, and post-graduation obligations, regardless of whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your bursary.

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a strategic attempt to improve South Africa’s educational system rather than merely providing financial assistance. The bursary guarantees that schools, particularly those in underprivileged areas, have access to qualified professionals by providing support for aspiring teachers. Parents, teachers, and students can make better decisions about postsecondary education and career planning if they are aware of the importance of this bursary.

 

Stay tuned as we get further into the requirements, benefits, and steps for obtaining this opportunity.

What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a multi-year, merit-based bursary program managed by the Department of Basic Education (DBE). It helps students who want to become teachers by paying for their studies.

The bursary started in 2007 to encourage more students to become teachers. It focuses on public schools, especially in subjects where there is a shortage of teachers. The goal is to improve education in South Africa by training skilled teachers.

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a national program, meaning students from all over South Africa can apply. The government spends more than R1 billion each year on this program to support teacher training. It has helped thousands of students complete their studies and become teachers in public schools.

Who Funds and Administers the Bursary?

The money for the Funza Lushaka Bursary is provided by the National Treasury. The funds are given to the Department of Basic Education (DBE), which then uses them to support students who want to become teachers.

The bursary is managed by different groups. The DBE oversees the program at a national level. Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) help to place students in schools after they finish their studies. Universities handle the applications and ensure students meet the academic requirements.

The Funza Lushaka Bursary works with public universities like the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Stellenbosch University, and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). Applications for the bursary are done through the e-Government portal, making the process easier for students.

Bursary Coverage: What Does It Pay For?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary covers many study-related costs, including:

• Tuition fees: The bursary pays for your university fees in full.
• Accommodation: It covers student housing, including meals.
• Books and learning materials: The bursary provides funds for textbooks and other study resources.
• Teaching practice costs: It helps with travel and other costs related to practical teaching experience.
• Monthly living allowance: If there are enough funds, students may also receive money for daily expenses.

 

Even though the bursary covers many expenses, there is a limit to how much money each student can receive. If university fees or living costs are higher than the bursary amount, students may need to find other ways to pay for the extra costs.

 

Unlike NSFAS, which funds students in various fields, Funza Lushaka is only for teaching students. It is focused on training teachers and requires graduates to work in public schools after completing their studies. This makes it different from other bursaries that do not require students to work in specific jobs after graduation.

Eligible Qualifications and Priority Subjects

1. Funded Programs

The Funza Lushaka Bursary funds the following teaching qualifications:

• Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) – A 4-year undergraduate degree in:
  • Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)
  • Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)
  • Senior and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grades 7–12)
• Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – A 1-year postgraduate qualification for those who already have a degree in another field. This is only for the Senior and FET Phase.

1. Priority Subject Areas

To address teacher shortages, the bursary focuses on certain subjects:

• Foundation Phase: Indigenous languages, neurodevelopmental needs, Braille, South African Sign Language (SASL).
• Intermediate Phase: Languages, Mathematics, Natural Science & Technology.
• Senior/FET Phase: STEM subjects (Mathematics, Science, Technology), languages, and technical subjects.

 

The bursary does not cover all subjects. Some courses, like History and Accounting, are not funded. English and Afrikaans are also not priority subjects because there are already enough teachers in these areas.

 

The list of priority subjects also changes every year, depending on the Department of Basic Education’s needs. You should always check the latest guidelines on the official sites before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

1. General Requirements

To apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, you must:

• Be a South African citizen (have a valid ID).
• Be under 30 years old if you are applying for the first time.
• Have been accepted into a B.Ed. or PGCE program at a recognized university.
• Be committed to teaching in a public school after you graduate.

 

1. Academic Requirements

• You must have passed the Matric with a Bachelor’s admission.
• Some programs require specific subject marks (e.g., Mathematics for STEM teaching).
• If you are renewing the bursary, you need to maintain a 50% average overall and at least 66.6% in priority subjects.

 

1. Who Cannot Apply?

You cannot apply for the bursary if you:

• Have a criminal record or have been involved in serious misconduct.
• Are an employee of a university or the Department of Education (or a close family member of one).
• Already have a teaching qualification or another bursary that does not allow additional funding.

 

Before applying, you must make sure you meet all the requirements to increase your chances of getting the bursary.

Application Process for 2025

Applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary is an important step if you hope to become a teacher with the help of financial aid.

The process is online and requires that you pay careful attention to details.

 

1. Application Opening and Closing Dates

New applications were open from October 10, 2024, to January 26, 2025.

Re-applications for those who have received the bursary before were also closed on November 30, 2024.

 

1. Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

Below is a detailed guide to help you apply successfully:

1. Register on the e-Government Portal

• Visit eservices.gov.za.
• Create an account if you are a new user. If you already have an account, then just log in.

1. Find the Funza Lushaka Bursary

• Once you’re logged in, select “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme.”

1. Complete the Application Form

• Fill in your personal information (name, ID number, contact details).
• Enter academic details (your qualifications and university information).
• Select your priority teaching subjects carefully.

1. Upload Required Documents

• A certified copy of your South African ID.
• A copy of your latest academic transcript.
• Proof of acceptance into an approved teaching program at a university.

1. Submit Your Application

• You will receive a One-Time Pin (OTP) via SMS or email.
• Enter the OTP, read and accept the terms and conditions, and then submit.

 

If you want a successful application, then you must apply early to avoid system errors or delays. Also, you must check your chosen teaching subjects to ensure they match the bursary’s priority list. You should also print and keep a copy of your application for reference.

 

Even though you apply online, some supporting documents must be submitted to your university’s Funza Lushaka office, so check with your university for any specific requirements.

Selection Process and Approval

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is highly competitive, and not everyone who applies will be selected. The selection process is based on merit, meaning that students who meet the academic and subject requirements have a better chance of getting the bursary.

Here’s how the selection and approval process works:

How Selection Works

The selection committee looks at several important factors when choosing bursary recipients:

1. Academic Performance

• Students with good grades in high school or university have a higher chance of being selected.
• If you are applying for a PGCE, your undergraduate degree results are important.
• Returning bursary recipients must maintain a minimum 50% average and 66.6% in priority subjects.

1. Leadership and Commitment to Teaching

• Applicants who show leadership skills or involvement in education-related activities may have an advantage.
• You must also show a strong commitment to teaching in a public school after graduation.

1. Priority Subjects

• The bursary is awarded mainly to students who will teach subjects in high demand (e.g., Mathematics, Science, and indigenous languages).
• If your chosen subject is not a priority, your chances of selection may be lower.

How You Will Be Notified

If your application is successful, you will receive a notification via email or on the e-Government portal dashboard.

If your application is unsuccessful, you may also receive an update explaining why.

All selected students must accept the bursary offer online and follow all instructions given.

Reapplying for the Bursary

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is not automatically renewed. You must reapply every year.

Your renewal depends on:

• Good academic performance (meeting the minimum grade requirements).
• Funding availability for that year.
• Continued commitment to teaching in public schools.

If you fail your studies or change your teaching subjects, you may lose the bursary.

Obligations and Work-Back Commitment

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is not just free money for your studies. In return for receiving the bursary, you must work as a teacher in a public school for a certain period.

This is called the work-back commitment, and it ensures that bursary recipients help improve education in South Africa.

Teaching Requirement

• If you receive the bursary, you must teach in a public school for one year for each year of funding you received.
• For example, if the bursary paid for four years of study, you must teach for four years in a public school.
• You cannot choose to work in a private school or overseas instead. The goal is to support government schools, especially in areas with teacher shortages.

How School Placement Works

After graduation, the Provincial Education Department (PED) will assign you to a school where you must work.

You do not get to choose your school. The government decides based on where teachers are needed the most.

You may be placed in a rural area or a township school if there is a high demand for teachers.

If you refuse the placement, you will not be released from your contract and may have to repay the bursary.

What Happens If You Do Not Follow the Rules?

If you drop out, fail your studies, or refuse to teach, you will have to pay back the full bursary amount.

• The bursary is a loan that turns into a grant only if you complete your teaching commitment.
• If you do not follow the rules, you will be legally required to pay back everything, including tuition, accommodation, and allowances.
• Failure to repay can lead to debt collection and legal action.

Benefits of the Funza Lushaka Bursary

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is one of the best opportunities for students who want to become teachers. It provides financial support, a clear career path, and a chance to make a real difference in South African education. Here are some benefits of this bursary:

 

The bursary covers most or all of your study expenses, making it much easier to focus on your education. It pays for tuition fees, accommodation, meals, learning materials, and teaching practice costs.

 

In some cases, students also receive a monthly allowance to help with living costs. This means you do not have to take out student loans or worry about repaying large debts after graduation.

 

One of the biggest advantages of the Funza Lushaka Bursary is guaranteed job placement in a public school after completing your degree.

Unlike many graduates who struggle to find jobs, bursary recipients are placed in schools where teachers are needed. This provides job security and a stable income soon after finishing university.

 

South Africa needs more qualified teachers, especially in math, science, and indigenous languages.

By becoming a teacher through this bursary, you will help reduce teacher shortages and improve education for students in public schools.

Many recipients are placed in rural or disadvantaged areas, giving them a chance to make a big difference in children’s lives.

 

Funza Lushaka bursary recipients also receive mentorship and training to help them become great teachers.

Universities and education departments offer support networks, workshops, and teaching resources. This helps bursary recipients gain confidence and develop their skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for their teaching careers.

Challenges and Limitations

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a great opportunity, but it also has some challenges that applicants should be aware of.

 

Here are some of the main difficulties and limitations:

A.    Competitive Nature

The bursary is very popular because it covers study costs and guarantees a teaching job. However, there are limited bursary slots, and not all applicants are selected.

Many students who qualify may not get the bursary due to high demand. This means that students should also look at other funding options as a backup.

B.    Subject Restrictions

The bursary only funds specific subjects, especially in areas where teachers are needed. Subjects like math, science, technology, and indigenous languages are given priority.

If you want to study history, accounting, or oversupplied languages (like English/Afrikaans), you may not qualify. You must check the priority subject list each year because it can change.

C.   Placement Uncertainty

After graduation, bursary recipients must teach in a public school assigned by the government. You cannot choose the school where you will work.

Many placements are in rural or underprivileged areas, which might be far from home. Some teachers may struggle with transport, accommodation, or adjusting to a new environment.

D.   Renewal Uncertainty

The bursary is not automatically renewed each year, so students must reapply and meet academic requirements to continue receiving funding.

If funds are limited, some returning students may lose their bursary, even if they meet the academic criteria. This makes it important to keep grades high and apply early each year.

Funza Lushaka vs. Other Funding Options

There are many ways to get financial help for your studies, but not all bursaries are the same.

 

Here’s how the Funza Lushaka Bursary compares to other funding options.

A. NSFAS

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps many students pay for their studies. NSFAS covers tuition, accommodation, books, and a living allowance, just like Funza Lushaka.

However, NSFAS is open to all study fields, while Funza Lushaka is only for teaching degrees. The biggest difference is that NSFAS does not require students to work for the government after graduation.

Funza Lushaka recipients, on the other hand, must teach in a public school for the same number of years they received the bursary.

B. Private Bursaries

Some private companies, charities, or organizations offer bursaries to students. These bursaries usually cover smaller amounts and may only pay for tuition or books.

Unlike Funza Lushaka, private bursaries do not always cover full living costs or guarantee job placement. However, they have fewer rules, and students can choose their careers after graduation.

Some private bursaries may require students to work for the company that funds them, but others have no obligations.

C. District-Based Funza Lushaka

In the Western Cape, there is a different version of the Funza Lushaka Bursary called the District-Based Bursary. This bursary only helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds in the Western Cape.

It still supports teaching students but focuses on local schools in the province. Students who receive this bursary must work in the Western Cape after graduating.

How to Check Application Status

After submitting your Funza Lushaka Bursary application, you will want to know if it has been approved.

 

Here are the different ways you can check your application status.

1. Check Online Through the e-Government Portal

The easiest way to track your application is through the e-Government (e-Gov) portal. Follow these steps:

1. Go toeservices.gov.za.
2. Log in using the details you used when applying.
3. Click on “Funza Lushaka Bursary” to see your application status.
4. Your status will show whether your application is still being processed, approved, or unsuccessful.

Checking online is the fastest way for you to get updates. Just make sure you log in regularly to see if there are any changes.

 

1. Contact Your University’s Funza Lushaka Office

Each university has a Funza Lushaka bursary office that helps students with their applications. If you do not see updates online, you can visit or email your university’s Funza Lushaka office.

The university may have extra information about your application status.

 

If you cannot find your status online or through your university, you can contact the DBE directly. Here are the official contact details:

• Phone: Call the DBE helpline at 012 357 3000.
• Email: Send an inquiry to inquiries.funzalushaka@dbe.gov.za.

When contacting them, have your ID number and application details ready so they can help you faster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Many students have questions about the Funza Lushaka Bursary. Below are answers to some of the most common ones.

• Can part-time or distance learning students apply?

Yes, but only if the program is approved for Funza Lushaka funding and meets all bursary conditions. Full-time students are given preference.

• What happens if I fail a year?

If you fail, your bursary may not be renewed. You might also have to pay back the money for that year. You must pass well to keep receiving funding.

• Can I choose which school I will teach at after graduation?

No, the Provincial Education Department (PED) will decide where you are placed. The placement is based on where teachers are needed most, so you must be willing to relocate.

• Is the PGCE funded every year?

Yes, but only for students specializing in Senior and Further Education & Training (FET) Phase. For 2025, funding is still available for PGCE students in these phases.

Updates for 2025

The application deadlines remain the same, but it’s always best if you apply early to avoid delays. Priority subjects can change, so you must check the official website before applying.

The placement rules are strict, meaning students must be flexible about where they will teach.

If you have more questions, visit the official e-Gov portal, contact your university’s Funza Lushaka office, or call the DBE helpline at 012 357 3000.

Tips for Aspiring Applicants

You must follow these tips if you hope to increase your chances of success as an applicant:

1. Get Ready Early: Start collecting all the needed documents before applications open. Make sure you know which priority subjects are funded. You should also check that your chosen university program is approved for Funza Lushaka funding.

 

1. Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Your motivation letter is very important. It helps show why you deserve the bursary. Be clear and honest about why you want to become a teacher. Show that you understand the importance of education in South Africa.

 

1. Keep Checking and Stay Updated: After applying, log in to the e-Gov portal often to check your status. You must be ready to send extra documents if asked. Read your emails and messages carefully so you don’t miss important updates.

Conclusion

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a great opportunity for students who want to become teachers in South Africa. It covers study costs, provides a clear career path, and helps improve education in public schools. To qualify, you must be a South African citizen, have good academic results, and be committed to teaching after graduation. The application process is online, and selection is based on merit and priority subjects.

If you meet the requirements, don’t miss the chance to apply before January 26, 2025. Stay updated, check your status regularly, and ensure that all your documents are correct.

Additional Resources

To help you apply smoothly, here are some useful resources:

 

1. Official Links

• Funza Lushaka Website: www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za
• e-Gov Portal (Application Site):eservices.gov.za
• Department of Basic Education (DBE) Contact Page: education.gov.za

 

1. Related Guides

• Matric Preparation Tips: Learn how to improve your results for university entry.
• Teaching Career Paths: Find out about different teaching qualifications and opportunities.
• Other Bursaries for Education Students: Compare funding options if you don’t qualify for Funza Lushaka.

1. Downloadable Checklist

For easy reference, download a step-by-step application checklist (PDF) with required documents and deadlines. This will help ensure you don’t miss anything important.