Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary Application 2026

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Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary Application 2026

The Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary aside providing financial aid, it serves as a gateway for young individuals to become transformative leaders in society. This prestigious fellowship offers a comprehensive support system that includes mentorship, personal development programs, and access to a dynamic network of like-minded peers.

Ready to take the first step toward an extraordinary future? Keep reading to learn more about the application process, eligibility requirements, and why this bursary is the perfect fit for aspiring trailblazers.

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Applicants should consider applying for:

Bursaries for Specific Courses Opening in 2026/2027

Government Bursaries in South Africa Opening in 2026/2027

NGO Bursaries in South Africa Opening in 2026/2027

Universities in South Africa Offering Bursaries in 2026/2027

Overview of Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation is a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs in Southern Africa. Established in 2005 by visionary philanthropist Allan Gray, the Foundation aims to nurture future leaders and innovators who can drive change and growth in their communities. This Fellowship Programme is a golden opportunity for young minds with a passion for entrepreneurship to realize their academic and entrepreneurial dreams.

Allan Gray, the founder of Allan Gray Limited, envisioned a sustainable way to empower the youth of Southern Africa. Through the Foundation, a portion of Allan Gray Limited’s taxed profits is allocated annually to fund this life-changing initiative.

The Foundation currently operates in four African countries:

  • South Africa
  • Namibia
  • Eswatini
  • Botswana

The Fellowship Programme is at the heart of the Foundation’s efforts. It not only provides financial assistance for university studies but also focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills in Fellows. This initiative aims to create future leaders who can positively impact their communities and beyond.

Fields of Study Supported by the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary

The Fellowship Programme supports undergraduate studies in diverse fields at selected universities. These fields are chosen to foster entrepreneurial innovation across various disciplines:

  • Arts
  • Commerce
  • Engineering
  • Health Sciences (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science)
  • Humanities
  • Law
  • Science

Whether your passion lies in business, science, or the arts, the Fellowship ensures you have the tools and resources to excel.

Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary 2026 Benefits

The Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship goes beyond mere financial aid. It provides a comprehensive package designed to alleviate financial burdens and nurture personal and professional growth.

Financial Support

The level of funding is determined by the applicant’s household income:

  1. Household Income Below R1 Million Annually
    • Full funding covering:
      • Tuition fees
      • University accommodation and meals
      • Book allowance
      • Monthly general allowance
      • Tutoring sessions
      • Counseling services (ICAS)
  2. Household Income Between R1 Million and R1.5 Million Annually
    • Partial funding for:
      • Tuition fees
      • University accommodation and meals
      • Tutoring sessions
      • Counseling services
  3. Household Income Above R1.5 Million Annually
    • Funding includes:
      • Tuition fees
      • Tutoring sessions
      • Counseling services
Developmental Benefits

Successful applicants, known as Candidate Allan Gray Fellows, gain access to a host of resources:

  • Entrepreneurial workshops
  • Mentorship programmes
  • Networking opportunities
  • Personal and professional development initiatives

These tools are designed to help Fellows build a foundation for long-term success as entrepreneurs and leaders.

The Selection Process Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary 2026

The Fellowship Programme’s selection process is rigorous to ensure that only the most driven and qualified candidates are selected. The process consists of three key steps:

  1. Application Submission
    • Deadline: 30 April at 17:00
  2. Interviews
    • Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews in July.
  3. Selection Camp
    • Final shortlisted applicants will attend a Selection Camp in September.

Applicants will receive feedback after each stage, keeping them informed throughout the process.

Eligibility Requirements for Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary 2026

To qualify for the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be 21 years or younger in the application year.
  • Be currently in Matric (Grade 12).
  • Achieve:
    • At least 60% in Mathematics or 80% in Mathematical Literacy in Grade 11 final results.
    • A minimum overall average of 70% (excluding Life Orientation) in Grade 11 final results.
  • Intend to pursue a degree in one of the supported fields of study.
  • Plan to study at one of the partner universities:
    • Nelson Mandela University
    • Rhodes University
    • Stellenbosch University
    • TSiBA Business School
    • University of Cape Town
    • University of the Free State
    • University of Johannesburg
    • University of KwaZulu-Natal
    • University of Pretoria
    • University of the Western Cape
    • University of the Witwatersrand
  • Demonstrate a strong entrepreneurial mindset and a belief in the future of South Africa.

Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary 2026 Application Process

Applications for the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship can be submitted in two ways:

  1. Online Application
    • Complete your application at the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship online portal.
    • Applicants must register an account before logging in to apply.
    • Online applications are preferred as they reduce delays.
  2. Manual Application
    • Download and complete the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Application Form 2024 (.pdf).
    • Submit the completed form and required documents via:
      • Post: Freepost No. CB 11349, Kloof Street, 8008
      • Hand Delivery:
        • 46 Hof Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town
        • 1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, 1 Protea Place, Sandton, Johannesburg

Required Documents for Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary Application 2026

Ensure you include the following certified documents with your application:

  • South African ID
  • Grade 11 final academic record
  • Grade 12 latest academic record (if available)

Application Deadline for Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary 2026

  • Closing Date: 30 April 2024 (at 17:00)
    Late submissions will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance.

Contact Details of Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship

For any queries regarding the Fellowship, reach out to the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation directly:

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship Programme is more than a bursary—it’s a transformative experience designed to shape the future leaders and innovators of Southern Africa. If you’re passionate about entrepreneurship and want to make a lasting impact, this Fellowship offers the perfect platform to achieve your goals.

Take the first step toward your entrepreneurial journey today. Apply for the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship and unlock a world of opportunities!