Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary
Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
Bursary Type
Full Bursary
Full cost of study
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a government-funded full bursary for education students who commit to teaching in public schools after graduation.
What's covered
Full tuition, accommodation, books, and monthly living allowance
Eligibility at a Glance
Fields of Study
Study Level
Available In
All Provinces (Nationwide)Quick Facts
About This Bursary
Funza Lushaka Bursary
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme (meaning "raise/grow the next generation" in Sesotho) is funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South African public schools.
This is one of the most accessible full bursaries in South Africa with a lower academic threshold than most corporate bursaries.
What It Covers
Workback Obligation
Recipients must teach in a public school for one year for each year of bursary funding. Placement is arranged by the Department of Basic Education in provinces with teacher shortages.
Priority Subjects
The bursary prioritises students who will teach:
Eligibility Requirements
- South African citizen
- Studying a BEd or PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)
- Enrolled at an accredited South African university
- Financial need
- Commitment to teaching in the public school system
- Minimum 50% academic average (lower threshold than corporate bursaries)
How to Apply
- 1Visit funzalushaka.dbe.gov.za
- 2Create an account
- 3Select your province and institution
- 4Complete application and upload documents
- 5Await approval from provincial education department
Required Documents
- SA ID (certified)
- Matric certificate
- Proof of university acceptance/enrollment (BEd or PGCE)
- Proof of income for household
- Motivational letter
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
Funza Lushaka is a South African government bursary for students studying towards a teaching qualification. It covers the full cost of study in exchange for teaching at a public school after graduation.
Can I choose where to teach with a Funza Lushaka Bursary?
Not entirely — placement is managed by provincial education departments, prioritising schools with teacher shortages. You can indicate a preference but cannot guarantee placement.
Is Funza Lushaka a loan?
No. Funza Lushaka is a bursary, not a loan. You don't repay it financially — instead, you fulfil the workback obligation by teaching in public schools.
Can PGCE students apply for Funza Lushaka?
Yes, both BEd (4-year) and PGCE (1-year postgraduate) students can apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary.
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official website for the most up-to-date application information and deadlines.
Apply on Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) WebsiteAll bursary applications are free. Never pay to apply.
Bursary Summary
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