Start your teaching career with the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026, Funded by the Department of Basic Education, this bursary empowers future educators by covering study costs for BEd degrees. It’s more than funding—it’s your pathway to making a difference in South Africa’s classrooms. Apply now and let BursaryForms guide you every step of the way!

About the Department of Basic Education

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) oversees schools across South Africa, from Grade R through Grade 12, as well as adult literacy programmes. Since splitting from the former National Department of Education, the DBE has focused on building a sustainable education system for the 21st century. Its mission is to ensure access to quality education for every learner and to develop skilled professionals who will uplift the country. At BursaryForms, we are thrilled to connect you with this life-changing bursary!

Fields Covered by the Funza Lushaka Bursary

Passionate about teaching? The Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 funds undergraduate studies in the following qualifications:

  • 4-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R–3)
  • 4-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grades 4–6)
  • 4-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Senior and FET Phase Teaching (Grades 7–12)
  • 4-year Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Care and Education (B.Ed. ECCE) for Grade RR–R

Important: The bursary will not fund the PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) in 2026. Oversupplied subjects such as History, Geography, Accounting, Business Studies, and Physical Education are excluded. Indigenous South African languages (excluding English and Afrikaans) are prioritised.

Expenses Covered by the Funza Lushaka Bursary

This bursary eases the financial burden of studying by covering:

  • Tuition fees
  • Accommodation and meals
  • Books and learning materials
  • Teaching practice expenses
  • A small monthly living allowance (depending on university costs)

Eligibility Requirements for the Funza Lushaka Bursary

Here’s what you need to qualify:

  • South African citizenship with a valid ID number
  • 30 years old or younger if applying for the first time (by 1 October 2025)
  • Acceptance into an approved B.Ed. programme at a public South African university
  • Strong academic performance
  • Commitment to teach in a public school, as placed by the Provincial Education Department
  • Passion for teaching and willingness to work with young learners
  • No prior teaching qualification or criminal record

We’re supporting you at BursaryForms! Use these guide to boost your application:

  • Start early—missing documents cause most application rejections.
  • Craft a powerful motivational letter that tells your story and your passion for teaching.
  • Showcase unique qualities such as resilience, leadership, or community involvement.
  • Keep a reminder of the closing date and submit ahead of time.
  • BursaryForms has guides and resources to help you prepare like a pro.

This page was updated on September 26, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about this bursary.

How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary

Applications are submitted online via the e-Government portal. Follow these steps:

Funza Lushaka Bursary Application Form 2026

Submit these certified documents with your online application:

  • South African ID
  • Matric certificate or latest results
  • Academic transcript (if already studying)
  • Proof of university registration or acceptance
  • Proof of parent/guardian income
  • Proof of residence
  • Motivational letter

Applications must be submitted online only—no hard copies will be accepted.

Closing Date for the Funza Lushaka Bursary

30 November 2025 (new applicants)
26 January 2026 (re-applications)

Late applications are not considered. Submit before the deadline to secure your chance!

Contact the Department of Basic Education

Department of Basic Education (DBE)
Tel: 012 357 3000
Email: inquiries.funzalushaka@dbe.gov.za
Website: https://www.education.gov.za

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026? +
It’s a bursary offered by the Department of Basic Education to fund B.Ed. degrees for aspiring teachers in South Africa.
Which fields are funded by the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026? +
It funds B.Ed. degrees in Foundation, Intermediate, Senior/FET Phases, and Early Childhood Care and Education.
Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 cover PGCE? +
No, the bursary does not cover the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for 2026.
What expenses does the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 cover? +
It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, learning materials, teaching practice, and a small living allowance.
Who qualifies for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026? +
Applicants must be South African citizens, 30 or younger (first-time applicants), accepted into a B.Ed. programme, and willing to teach in public schools.
When is the closing date for Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026 applications? +
New applications close on 30 November 2025, while re-applications close on 26 January 2026.
How do I apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026? +
Applications are submitted online through the e-Government portal. Only online applications are accepted.
Is the Funza Lushaka Bursary renewable each year? +
Yes, but renewal depends on your academic performance. You must reapply each year.
Do I need to repay the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026? +
You don’t repay money, but you must teach in a public school for the same number of years you received funding.
Can I choose where I want to teach after graduation? +
No, you will be placed by the Provincial Education Department based on school needs.