If you're a South African student pursuing a teaching qualification, you may be considering funding options like NSFAS and Funza Lushaka. Let's break down these two schemes and explore whether you can apply for both simultaneously.
Both bursaries offer similar benefits, such as tuition fees and living allowances. The best choice for you depends on your specific circumstances and long-term career goals.
What Is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to students studying at one of the 26 public universities or 50 TVET Colleges in South Africa.
NSFAS funding includes money for tuition and registration fees as well as several allowances for food, accommodation and learning materials.
What Is Funza Lushaka?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme encourages teaching as a profession among young people by offering comprehensive bursaries to individuals pursuing teaching qualifications. Funding covers Bachelor of Education (BEd) and Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) courses at all 26 public universities in South Africa.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation (including meals), books, and learning materials. Additionally, students may receive a small allowance for monthly living expenses.
Can I Apply For Both?
Yes, you can apply for both bursaries and it's actually encouraged. Funding available for the Funza Lushaka Bursary is limited and applying for NSFAS is therefore advised.
However, it's important to remember that you can only be funded by one of them at a time. If you're approved for Funza Lushaka funding and you decide to accept it, you won't be able to benefit from NSFAS and vice versa.
Both schemes have their own specific eligibility criteria and application processes.
