Funza Lushaka Bursary: Applications Now Open for 2025

The Department of Basic Education is inviting students to apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme for the year 2025. This is an excellent opportunity for those who wish to pursue a career in teaching in South Africa. The bursary provides financial support to help cover the costs of your studies.

Important Dates:

• Applications Open: 10 October 2024
• New Applications Close: 26 January 2025
• Re-Applications for Returning Bursars Close: 30 November 2024

What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary aims to support students who are passionate about becoming teachers. It covers essential costs such as tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and other expenses related to your studies. The bursary is part of a national effort to encourage more students to pursue teaching as a profession, ensuring a well-qualified workforce for the education sector.

Teaching Qualifications Supported by the Bursary:

Undergraduate Studies
Bachelor of Education (BEd) Degree
This is a four-year program that prepares students to teach in the following phases:

Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)

Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)

Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET) (Grades 7–12)

Postgraduate Studies
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
This one-year certification prepares graduates to teach in the:

Senior Phase and FET (Grades 7–12)

Requirements for First-Time University Entrants:

• Matriculation with exemption, endorsement, or bachelor’s degree admission.
• A minimum level 4 pass in specific subjects (depending on specialization).
• Must meet the entry requirements of your chosen university.

What Does the Bursary Cover?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary covers various expenses related to your studies, including:

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage for your studies at a public university.
• Study Materials: Books and learning resources.
• Accommodation: Living costs in student housing.
• Meals: Food allowance.
• Teaching Practice Costs: Support for practical teaching experiences.
• Living Allowance: Additional funds for personal expenses (if applicable).

This comprehensive support allows students to focus fully on their studies without the worry of financial burdens.

How Long is the Bursary for?

The bursary is granted for one academic year, but students can reapply annually based on their academic performance.

What Happens After Graduation?

Upon completion of your studies, you are required to teach at a public school chosen by the Provincial Education Department (PED) for the same number of years as you received the bursary. For example, if you were funded for three years, you will need to teach for three years.

Who Can Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

To be eligible for the bursary, you must meet the following criteria:

• South African Citizen: You must be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be 30 years old or younger if applying for the first time.
• University Acceptance: You must be accepted at a public university in South Africa to study for either a BEd or PGCE degree.
• Good Academic Record: Applicants should have a strong academic history.

• Commitment to Teach: You must be willing to teach at a school selected by the PED after completing your studies.
• No Prior Teaching Qualification: The bursary is intended for those without a prior teaching qualification.
• Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must have no criminal record.

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Why Should You Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

Here are some compelling reasons to apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary:

Financial Support: The bursary covers all the major expenses of your education, easing your financial burden.

Guaranteed Job: After graduation, you are guaranteed employment at a public school.

Make a Difference: Teaching gives you the opportunity to shape young minds and make a positive impact on your community.

How to Apply?

Applications for the Funza Lushaka Bursary are done online. Interested students should apply as soon as possible and ensure they meet all the requirements for consideration.

Applications must be submitted online at: Funza Lushaka Bursary Application 2024

Applicants must follow these steps to submit their bursary application:
1) Visit the e-Government Portal website
2) Register an account by filling in your required personal details (after ticking the boxes to agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy of the e-Gov portal)
3) Login using your selected username and password
4) Select the “Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme” on the e-Services Menu
5) Insert the OTP you received
6) Read and accept the Terms and Conditions
7) Click on the “2023 application” button on the dashboard
8) Fill in the required information
9) Read and accept the declaration to confirm your information