The Funza Lushaka Bursary invites young South Africans under 30 to apply for its 2026 academic year funding, starting 7 October 2025. This bursary supports students who want to become teachers, especially those pursuing priority subjects identified by the government.
To qualify, you need to have passed matric with a Bachelor’s pass or meet the entry requirements for university.
The Department of Basic Education works closely with provinces, districts, and schools to match bursary supply with the country’s teaching needs — considering factors like teacher retirements and national education strategies like the Three-Stream Model.
Unlike most bursaries focused on science or engineering, Funza is one of the few designed specifically for teaching students, especially those looking to specialise in subjects with a national shortage. That includes both current university students and high school learners who want to study teaching in 2026.
Closing Date for new students: 24 January 2026
Closing date for returning students: 30 November 2025
Applications are now open, and you can now apply at Funzalushaka.doe.gov.za.
