Applications are now open for the 2026 Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship Programme. The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme is a prestigious four-year opportunity designed to support young achievers in their university journey at one of 10 partner universities in South Africa.
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme is designed to develop well-rounded individuals who graduate as responsible, entrepreneurial thinkers with a deep commitment to their communities. Through personalised support and immersive learning experiences, Candidate Allan Gray Fellows gain the skills, mindset, and network to drive meaningful change. The programme nurtures:
Candidate Allan Gray Fellows are guided to see entrepreneurship as a viable and fulfilling career path. By the end of the programme, they are equipped to:
Entrepreneurship as a career path
- Turn ideas into impactful ventures.
- Leverage support from the Foundation.
- Build strong networks through collaboration and community.
- Embody responsible entrepreneurship that creates real value.
Candidate Allan Gray Fellows receive comprehensive support beyond financial and academic assistance, including:
- A Personal Development Officer to aid in the transition to university life.
- An Entrepreneurial Leadership Officer to develop their entrepreneurial mindset.
- An Industry Mentor to help translate entrepreneurial concepts into practical skills.
Requirements
To apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Achieve 60% or higher in Mathematics in AS levels or Form 6 latest results.
- Maintain 70%+ overall average in latest AS Level or Form 6 results (excluding Life Orientation/Skills)
- Be a citizen of Eswatini, Botswana, or Namibia.
- Be under 21 years of age in the year of application.
- Plan to study Commerce, Science (excluding Medicine, Veterinary Science, and Dentistry), Engineering, Law, Humanities, or Arts at one of the following universities:
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Cape Town
- Nelson Mandela University
- Rhodes University
- University of the Western Cape
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Free State
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
Fellowship application process
Step 1: Submit
Complete the online application form and upload all required documents by 31 July 2026 at 17:00.
Step 2: Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between August and September 2026.
Step 3: Selection Camp
Entrepreneurial Camp. Finalists will attend an Entrepreneurial Camp in October 2026
Required documentation to submit
- Certified copy of their ID
- Certified copy of their most recent AS Level or Form 6 report card.
Benefits
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme provides
Comprehensive Financial Support
Coverage includes university tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, tutoring, travel allowances, medical aid costs, and a monthly stipend.
Mentorship & Guidance
Receive mentorship from the Foundation staff and a dedicated business mentor to support your entrepreneurial journey.Entrepreneurial Curriculum & Events
Gain access to the Foundation’s Entrepreneurial Curriculum through the AGOF Online Campus, along with annual conferences, seminars, and workshops designed to support your entrepreneurial journey.
Personal, Entrepreneurial & Leadership Growth
Develop your personal, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills through tailored programmes designed to foster growth and success.
Entrepreneurial Community
Join a network of like-minded individuals committed to growth, collaboration, and success.
Business Incubation & Funding
Gain access to business incubation and venture funding to support your entrepreneurial journey.
Method of Application
Visit the Official Webpage
Application Deadline: July 31st, 2026.
