How to Successfully Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary: Eligibility, Process & Tips
The Funza Lushaka Bursary program provides critical funding covering tuition, accommodation, books and other expenses for future teachers. Competition is stiff though – only around 13,000 of ~18,000 applicants are awarded annually.
This comprehensive article shares:
✅ Who qualifies for Funza Lushaka
✅ Step-by-Step application instructions
✅ Key supporting documents & dates
✅ Additional application optimization tips
Equipped with these insights, you can submit the most compelling application possible, greatly improving your chances of securing this life-changing bursary.
Funza Lushaka Bursary Requirements: Who Qualifies?
To apply, you must first meet several mandatory Funza Lushaka eligibility criteria:
Age Limit
There is generally a maximum age limit of 30 years for first time Funza Lushaka applicants – you must not turn older than this in the year you first submit your bursary application.
For example, to apply for the 2024 funding cycle, you cannot be turning 31 years or older at any date in the 2024 calendar year.
People awarded the bursary previously can however apply for contract extensions up to age 65.
Academic Status & Subject Choices
You must have received university acceptance into an approved teaching degree for the year of funding:
✅ Bachelor of Education (BEd)
✅ Post-graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Additionally, your chosen teaching subjects must align to Department of Basic Education focus areas for that application cycle – generally prioritizing Maths, Science, Technology and African languages.
Refer to the DBE website for the current annual list based on shifting national priorities.
Citizenship/Residency Criteria
Only South African citizens or permanent residents are eligible. Your ID must be successfully verified during the application process.
Willingness to Teach in Public Schools
If awarded the bursary, you will be contractually required to teach at public schools – especially those underprivileged or rural – for at minimum 4 years post-graduation. You must indicate consent and enthusiasm for this giving-back promise upfront when applying.
This highlights the key objective of Funza Lushaka – enabling young talent to uplift disadvantaged communities countrywide through education.
Step-By-Step: Applying for Funza Lushaka Bursaries Online
If the above criteria are met, here is how to apply for Funza Lushaka funding:
1. Register on the e-Gov Website
Head to the e-Services governmental portal via: HERE
If new, click ‘Register’ and set up your profile. Provide your ID number, contact details and password.
If already registered previously, simply login.
2. Select ‘Funza Lushaka Bursary’
From the e-Services menu bar, click on ’Funza Lushaka Bursary’ to access the online application dashboard.
3. Click the Application Button
Locate the large ‘Apply Now’ button for the relevant year you are commencing studies e.g. ‘Funza Lushaka 2024 Application’. Hit Apply to begin.
4. Complete All Application Fields
You will be guided through various pages capturing:
- Personal and demographic details
- High school and prior higher education details
- University and qualification info
- Chosen teaching subjects
- Background, motivations and interests
- Accessibility preferences
Fill all sections fully and accurately.
5. Agree to Declarations
At the end, legally confirm your agreement to Funza Lushaka terms around information accuracy, program rules and graduate teaching commitments.
6. Upload Supporting Documents
Attach clear copies of all required certificates and proofs via the portal, including:
- Certified ID copy
- High school results
- Higher education transcripts
- University acceptance letter
- Additional forms as applicable
Tip: Save copies during the year in preparation, with filenames clearly indicating contents.
7. Receive Reference Number
Once submitted fully, you will receive an application reference number. Note this for any follow-ups.
8. Check Portal for Updates
Keep checking your Funza Lushaka applicant dashboard for latest status updates, next steps or any additional information requests.
When is the Deadline & What Happens Next?
- Funza Lushaka applications typically close end of April – finalise a few weeks beforehand. Late applications aren’t accepted.
- Registration reopens around November for the next academic year intake.
- If approved, expect selection outcome notifications between August and January. Review award letters closely.
- Disbursements are made once you submit proof of registration at your university for funded qualification.
Additional Tips for Boosting Your Funza Lushaka Application
Beyond meeting technical requirements, small optimizations can amplify your candidacy:
🔸 Start Early – Open applications months before deadline allowing enough time to gather documents.
🔸 Show Motivation – Articulate passion for education and eagerness to develop future generations.
🔸 Highlight Relevant Activity – Emphasize any prior tutoring, mentoring or classroom exposure demonstrating commitment.
Following the steps outlined here will set you up to pursue this essential funding helping shape our nation’s future teachers and leaders. Apply diligently and continue checking online frequently throughout. All the best!
Conclusion
Securing the competitive Funza Lushaka bursary is a rigorous yet rewarding journey empowering South Africa’s brightest young minds to give back through teaching. I wish you all the best as you embark on this noble and urgent calling educating and uplifting our youth nationwide. Your dedication will enrich countless lives for years ahead. Stay determined!
FAQs
If I don’t get Funza Lushaka funding on my first try, can I apply again in future years?
Definitely – you can apply repeatedly in subsequent years as long as you still meet basic age and enrollment eligibility. Many eventual recipients only succeeded after 2-3 tries. Persist and keep strengthening your teaching subject depth, motivations articulated in applications etc.
What happens if I drop out of my BEd studies during the year despite receiving the bursary? You would need to inform the Department of Education immediately in writing. All unused funds would need to be paid back if you do not complete the qualification as committed for any reason. Re-application for additional years of funding also becomes very difficult.
Do I need to attach a signature for declarations when applying online for Funza Lushaka funding? No – digitally checking the declaration boxes indicating you have read and consented to all Funza Lushaka terms and conditions carries same legal validity without need for handwritten signing. However, printed award contracts will require ink signatures if you are successfully approved.
ALSO SEE:
How to Register for NSFAS 2024 – Step-by-Step Guide
Bursary For Teaching 2024/2025
Bursaries for Education 2024/2025
Bursaries for 2024 Undergraduate South Africa – Funding Your Education