Available Education and Teaching Bursaries 2026 – 2027
EDUCATION | TEACHING BURSARIES FOR 2026 – 2027
Available Education and Teaching Bursaries: Available Education and Teaching Bursaries.
Teaching is one of the most important professions, shaping the future of societies through education. In South Africa, there is a strong demand for qualified teachers, especially in subjects like Mathematics, Science, and Languages. To support students who want to pursue a career in education, various organizations offer education and teaching bursaries that help cover study costs and provide career opportunities.
Why Apply for Teaching Bursaries?
Education bursaries are designed to reduce the financial burden of studying while encouraging more students to become teachers. These bursaries often cover:
- Full or partial tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Books and study materials
- Monthly stipends
- Teaching internships or job placement opportunities
Some bursaries also require graduates to work back for a specific number of years after completing their studies.
Top Education and Teaching Bursaries
There are several well-known bursaries available for students pursuing teaching qualifications:
1. Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
This is the most popular teaching bursary in South Africa. It is funded by the government and aims to promote teaching in priority subject areas.
Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Books and learning materials
- Monthly allowance
Students who receive this bursary are required to teach at a public school after graduation.
2. NSFAS
NSFAS provides funding for students from low-income households, including those studying education.
Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Transport and living allowances
3. Provincial Department of Education Bursaries
Many provinces offer their own teaching bursaries to address local teacher shortages. Examples include:
- Gauteng Department of Education Bursary
- KwaZulu-Natal Teaching Bursary
- Western Cape Education Department Bursary
These bursaries often prioritize students willing to teach in rural or underserved areas.
4. Private Sector and NGO Bursaries
Some private organizations and NGOs also support education students, including:
- Teaching scholarships from education foundations
- Corporate bursaries for education degrees
- NGO-funded teacher training programmes
These may offer additional benefits such as mentorship and professional development.
Fields Covered by Teaching Bursaries
Education bursaries are usually available for the following areas:
- Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R–3)
- Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grades 4–6)
- Senior Phase & FET Teaching (Grades 7–12)
- Special Needs Education
- Educational Leadership and Management
Priority is often given to subjects such as:
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Technology
- African Languages
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for most education bursaries, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be in Matric or have completed Grade 12
- Meet university admission requirements
- Show good academic performance
- Demonstrate a passion for teaching
Some bursaries may also require proof of financial need.
How to Apply for Teaching Bursaries
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Research available bursaries early
- Prepare required documents (ID, academic results, proof of income)
- Apply online through official portals
- Write a strong motivation letter
- Submit before the closing date
Benefits of Studying Teaching
- High demand for qualified teachers
- Opportunities to work in both public and private schools
- Job stability and career growth
- Chance to make a meaningful impact in society
Here is a list of available bursaries for those who are studying or wish to study towards a Teaching or Educators qualification in South Africa:
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- Access Trust Bursary
- Arup Education Trust Bursary
- ASSET (Association for Educational Transformation) Bursary South Africa
- Barloworld Education Trust Bursary
- Cape Winelands District Municipality Mayoral Bursary
- Cida Empowerment Trust Bursary
- Epilepsy South Africa Educational Trust Bursary
- IDB Education Trust Bursary Loan
- JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary
- MANCOSA Bursary
- Mick Leary Educational Trust Bursary
- Mpumalanga Provincial Government Bursary
- NEET (National Economic Education Trust) Bursary
- North West Provincial Government Bursary
- NUMSA Bursary
- Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) Bursary
- Rio Tinto/ Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) Bursary
- SA Maths and Science Teacher Intern Programme Bursary
- SACEE Norah Taylor Bursary
- Schauenburg Education Trust Bursary
- SIOC Community Development Trust (SIOC-CDT) Bursary
- Sugar Industry Trust Fund for Education (SITFE) Bursary
- The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
Conclusion
Education and teaching bursaries provide a valuable opportunity for students to pursue a rewarding career without financial stress. With options like the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme, NSFAS, and provincial funding, many students can access quality education and contribute to the development of South Africa’s future generations. Applying early and meeting all requirements will increase your chances of securing funding for the 2027 academic year.
Read Also: Bursaries Open All Year Round
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