Teaching Bursaries 2026: Open Applications for BEd Students

Many South African students who want to become qualified teachers can fund their studies through teaching bursaries in 2026. 

These bursaries are designed for learners enrolled in a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). 

They help cover tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and other study-related costs. 

A major bursary open for application is the Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary Programme, which is funded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and administered through the government e-Services portal. 

There are also other province and organisation-based bursaries that support teaching students.

Most of these require that applicants study at a recognised public university and commit to serve as teachers after graduation.

What Is the Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary?

The Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary Programme is the flagship government bursary for teaching students in South Africa. 

It is funded by the Department of Basic Education and aims to support students studying for teaching qualifications such as the BEd degree and the PGCE. 

The programme focuses on producing well-qualified teachers who can teach in public schools, especially schools in rural and disadvantaged areas. 

It pays for tuition fees, accommodation, food, textbooks, and a living allowance where available.

Successful applicants must commit to teach in South African public schools for the number of years they receive funding.

Who Can Apply for Teaching Bursaries in 2026?

To apply for the Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary and similar teaching bursaries, applicants must meet certain requirements:

1. Be a South African citizen with a valid ID document.
2. Be enrolled or planning to enrol for a BEd degree or a PGCE at a recognised public university.
3. Be a first-time applicant or renewing as allowed by the bursary rules.
4. Meet the university entrance requirements for the teaching qualification.
5. Be passionate about teaching and willing to serve as a teacher in a public school after graduating.

For the Funza Lushaka Bursary, first-time applicants are usually expected to be 30 years old or younger at the time of application.

What Fields of Study Do Teaching Bursaries Cover?

Teaching bursaries are specific to education and teacher training qualifications. The main qualifications supported include:

1. Bachelor of Education (BEd) – an undergraduate teaching degree.
2. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – for students who already have a degree and want to qualify as teachers.

Within these qualifications, bursary priority is often given to students specialising in teaching areas where there is a shortage of teachers.

These may include:

1. Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy
2. Physical Sciences and Life Sciences
3. Languages such as English and African languages
4. Foundation Phase and Early Childhood Education
5. Technology and Technical Teaching Subjects

These areas help address critical teacher shortages in South African public schools.

What Costs Do Teaching Bursaries Cover?

Most teaching bursary programmes cover the following study costs:

1. Tuition fees at the public university where the student is registered.
2. Accommodation costs for students who live away from home.
3. Textbooks and learning materials needed for study.
4. Monthly living allowance or stipend to help with personal expenses.

These bursaries do not usually fund private university study.

Funding is limited to public universities and, in some cases, universities of technology.

How Do You Apply for a Teaching Bursary?

Teaching bursary applications are submitted through official channels.

For the Funza Lushaka Bursary, the steps are:

1. Visit the South African government e-Services portal.
2. Register with your South African ID number, cellphone number, and email address.
3. Login and select the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme.
4. Complete the 2026 teaching bursary application form with accurate personal, academic, and financial information.
5. Upload certified supporting documents such as South African ID, latest academic results, proof of university acceptance, and proof of residence.
6. Review and submit your application before the closing date.

When uploading documents, make sure each file is certified and clearly legible, or your application may be disqualified.

What Documents Are Needed With the Application?

Typical supporting documents required when applying for teaching bursaries include:

1. A certified copy of your South African ID document.
2. Matric certificate or latest academic results.
3. Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised public university.
4. Proof of residence such as a utility bill or municipal letter.
5. Other documents as specified on the bursary portal.

Always check the official bursary portal or information page for the most current document list before applying.

What Is the Closing Date for Teaching Bursaries?

For the 2026 academic year, the Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary and many provincial teaching bursaries require applications to be submitted by 24 January 2026 for new applicants.

Some provincial bursaries have a later deadline close to 28 February 2026.

Late applications will not be considered, so it is critical to complete and submit your application well before the deadline.