Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027 Applications: How to Apply Online
Applications for the Funza Lushaka Bursary for the 2027 academic year opened on 1 October 2026. Eligible students who want to pursue a teaching qualification can apply online for financial support through this government bursary programme.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary supports teacher education in South Africa, helping eligible students study towards a teaching qualification in line with the programme’s requirements and priority areas.
If you are planning to become a teacher and need financial assistance for your studies, this is an opportunity worth exploring. Before applying, make sure you understand the eligibility requirements, application process and important deadlines.
New applications close on 31 January 2027, while returning bursars must submit their reapplications by 30 November 2026.
Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027 Details
- Bursary programme: Funza Lushaka Bursary
- Academic year: 2027
- Application opening date: 1 October 2026
- Closing date for new applicants: 31 January 2027
- Closing date for returning bursars: 30 November 2026
- Application method: Online
- Official website: https://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/
- First-time applicant age requirement: 30 years or younger
The bursary is intended for eligible students pursuing approved initial teacher education qualifications. Applicants should consult the official programme information to confirm the qualifications, subjects and other conditions that apply to them.
Who Can Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The programme is intended for students who want to pursue teaching and meet the relevant bursary requirements.
1. First-Time Applicants
Students applying for the first time must be 30 years old or younger, according to the official application portal.
Applicants should check the full eligibility criteria before beginning their applications. Meeting the age requirement alone does not guarantee bursary approval.
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2. Students Interested in Becoming Teachers
The bursary supports eligible students studying towards approved teaching qualifications. Your chosen qualification and teaching subjects must meet the programme’s requirements.
Before applying, confirm that your intended course and institution qualify under the Funza Lushaka scheme.
3. Returning Bursary Recipients
Students who already receive Funza Lushaka funding and wish to continue receiving support in 2027 must complete the reapplication process.
Returning bursars have a different deadline from first-time applicants. Their applications close on 30 November 2026.
When Do Funza Lushaka Bursary Applications Close?
There are two important deadlines for the 2027 academic year.
| Application category | Closing date |
|---|---|
| New applicants | 31 January 2027 |
| Existing or returning bursars | 30 November 2026 |
Students should identify the correct category before applying. New applicants should not use the returning-bursar process, and existing bursars should follow the instructions for reapplication.
Although new applicants have until January 2027, it is advisable to prepare the required information early and avoid leaving the application until the final day.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027
According to the official portal, applicants must first register through the South African government’s e-Services website.
Follow these nine steps.
Step 1: Open the e-Services Website
Visit the official government portal:
Step 2: Register an Account
Provide the requested personal information to register for the e-Services platform.
Step 3: Log In
Use the username and password you created during registration to access your account.
Step 4: Select Funza Lushaka
From the e-Services menu, choose the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme option.
Step 5: Enter Your OTP
Enter the one-time PIN (OTP) sent through your preferred communication channel, as requested by the system.
Step 6: Accept the Terms and Conditions
Read the terms and conditions carefully before accepting them.
Step 7: Select the 2027 Application
On your dashboard, click the 2027 application option.
Step 8: Complete the Application Form
Enter the required information accurately and complete the relevant fields.
Step 9: Accept the Declaration
Review your information and accept the declaration to confirm that the details you submitted are correct.
Official application website: Funza Lushaka Bursary Portal
What Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Support?
The Funza Lushaka scheme supports eligible students pursuing approved initial teacher education programmes. Funding is subject to the official bursary rules, eligibility criteria and the conditions applicable to the student’s qualification.
Applicants should read the official 2027 application notes before applying to understand the programme requirements and obligations associated with receiving funding.
Read the official application notes here:
Funza Lushaka Bursary Application Notes 2027
Do not assume that every teaching course or institution automatically qualifies for funding. Confirm your course details through the official programme resources.
Important Information Before Applying
Before submitting your application, keep the following points in mind:
- First-time applicants must be 30 years old or younger.
- New applications close on 31 January 2027.
- Returning bursars must reapply by 30 November 2026.
- Applications are completed online through the official e-Services process.
- Your information must be accurate and complete.
- You should read the official application notes and bursary conditions before accepting the declaration.
Applicants should also keep their login details secure and avoid sharing passwords or OTPs with anyone.
Final Thoughts
The Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027 offers an opportunity for eligible students who want to pursue a teaching career in South Africa. If you are interested in becoming a teacher, start by checking the requirements, confirming that your intended qualification is eligible and registering on the official e-Services portal.
New applicants have until 31 January 2027 to apply, while returning bursars must complete their reapplications by 30 November 2026.
Use the official website to complete your application and check for updates before submitting your information.