South Africa needs more teachers, especially in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, technical subjects and African languages, so there is dedicated funding for teaching students.
Teaching bursaries for 2027: key dates
Status as of 26 September 2026. Dates change every year, so always confirm on the sponsor's own website before you apply.
| Bursary | Who it funds | 2027 closing date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funza Lushaka Bursary (official website) | BEd and PGCE students in priority teaching areas. First-time applicants must be 30 or younger, and you need a student number and an offer from a university first. | The official site had not published 2027 dates by 26 September 2026 | Dates pending |
| NSFAS (see NSFAS 2027) | Qualifying students at public universities, including BEd students | See our NSFAS guide | Open |
Prepare while dates are pending. Check the official Funza Lushaka site and the Department of Basic Education page. Have your university student number and admission information ready before the window opens.
Funza Lushaka bursary
Run by the Department of Basic Education, Funza Lushaka funds students studying a BEd or PGCE in priority teaching areas. It can cover tuition, accommodation, meals and learning materials. In return, you teach at a public school for the same number of years you received the bursary. Apply only through the official Funza Lushaka process once the Department publishes the 2027 dates.
Other funding for teaching
- NSFAS funds qualifying students at public universities, including BEd students. See NSFAS 2027.
- Provincial education departments sometimes fund local students in scarce subjects.
- Universities offer their own bursaries and merit awards for education students.
Choose the right subjects
To teach a subject in high school, you usually need it at school. See subjects needed for teaching.
When to apply
Start looking in Grade 11 and apply in Grade 12. Many bursaries close before matric results come out, and deadlines change every year, so check each sponsor's website and set reminders. The EduRance app lists verified bursaries and reminds you before they close.
Stay safe
Legitimate bursary sponsors generally do not charge an application fee. Apply on the sponsor's own website, not through WhatsApp links or agents, and never share your banking PIN or one-time PIN.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay back Funza Lushaka?
Not if you meet the conditions. You repay it by teaching at a public school for the same number of years you were funded.
Can I get Funza Lushaka and NSFAS?
Usually not for the same costs. Funza Lushaka is typically the better fit for teaching students who qualify.
Which subjects does Funza Lushaka prioritise?
Priority areas are set by the Department of Basic Education and can change. Check the official website for the current list.