Build a Future as a Leader & Entrepreneur While Studying

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation University Fellowship Programme 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for Grade 12 students in South Africa who want to study at university and develop an entrepreneurial mindset.

This fellowship doesn’t just fund your studies — it helps you become a future leader and changemaker.

Application Deadline

30 April 2026 at 17:00 SAST

Quick Overview

Programme: Allan Gray University Fellowship
Organisation: Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
Target Group: Grade 12 learners
Location: South Africa (selected universities)
Funding Type: Full or needs-based funding
Focus: Entrepreneurship, leadership, academic excellence

What Is the Allan Gray Fellowship?

This fellowship supports students who want to:

Study at top South African universities
Build an entrepreneurial mindset
Make a positive impact in society

It combines:

University funding
Personal development
Mentorship & leadership training

Eligible Universities

You must intend to study at one of these:

University of Cape Town
University of the Witwatersrand
University of Pretoria
Stellenbosch University
University of Johannesburg
University of KwaZulu-Natal
And other selected institutions

Minimum Requirements

You must:

Be in Grade 12 in 2026
Be under 21 years old
Be a South African citizen
Achieve:
- 70% average (excluding Life Orientation)
- OR 60% in Pure Maths
- OR 80% in Mathematical Literacy
Intend to study in Commerce, Science, Engineering, Law, Humanities, Arts, or Health Sciences
(excluding Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry)

You can also:

What You Get (Benefits)

Academic & Financial Support

Full funding (if household income ≤ R1 million)
Covers:
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Textbooks
- Stipend
- Tutoring

Entrepreneurial Development

Mentorship from experts
Access to entrepreneurship training
Workshops, seminars & conferences
Business incubation support
Access to venture funding opportunities

Application Process

Submit your application online or via post
Shortlisted candidates invited for interviews (July 2026)
Selected candidates attend a selection camp (September 2026)

Apply early — the process takes time and preparation.

Required Documents

Certified copy of Grade 11 results
Certified copy of ID

How to Apply

Hand Delivery:

Cape Town
46 Hof Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town

Johannesburg
1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, Sandton

Postal Address:

Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
Freepost CB 11349
Kloof Street 8008

Visit the Official Webpage of the Allan Gray University Fellowship Programme

Pro Tip

Don’t rush your application — it’s recommended to spend at least 2 days preparing your submission to increase your chances of success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply?

Grade 12 learners in South Africa under 21 years old.

2. Is this a scholarship or bursary?

It is a fellowship — combining funding, mentorship, and entrepreneurship training.

3. Does it cover full university costs?

Yes, for eligible applicants with household income below R1 million.

4. Which degrees are allowed?

Commerce
Science
Engineering
Law
Humanities
Arts
Health Sciences

(excluding Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry)

5. What makes this fellowship special?

It focuses on:

Leadership development
Entrepreneurship
Community impact

6. When is the closing date?