Allan Gray Orbis University Fellowship Program 2026 For South African Students: Apply Now!

About the Allan Gray Orbis University Fellowship Program

Are you a young South African student with a passion for entrepreneurship, leadership, and academic excellence? The Allan Gray Orbis University Fellowship Program 2026 offers funding and mentorship to help students develop an entrepreneurial mindset while pursuing higher education.

This prestigious fellowship provides financial assistance, mentorship, and access to a network of like-minded individuals who are driven to create a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship Program is designed for high-achieving students who are transitioning into university and have a strong desire to make a meaningful impact in South Africa.

The fellowship goes beyond financial support by offering:

Needs-based funding for university studies
Personal development programs to nurture leadership and entrepreneurial thinking

A supportive network of business leaders and mentors
Opportunities to develop and launch business ideas

This program seeks future leaders and changemakers who are determined to use their education and skills to drive economic growth and innovation.

Eligible Fields of Study

The following fields of study qualify for the Allan Gray Orbis University Fellowship:

Commerce
Science

Engineering
Law
Humanities

Arts
Health Sciences (excluding Medicine, Veterinary Science, and Dentistry)

Students pursuing degrees at select South African universities are eligible to apply.

Eligibility Criteria

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

Academic Requirements:
- A minimum of 60% in Pure Mathematics OR a minimum of 80% in Mathematical Literacy in final Grade 11 results
- A minimum average of 70% in final Grade 11 results (excluding Life Orientation)
Age Requirement: Must be under 21 years old in the year of application
Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen

Intended University Studies:
- Applicants must intend to study towards a Commerce, Science, Engineering, Law, Humanities, Arts, or Health Science degree
- Excluded degrees: Medicine, Veterinary Science, and Dentistry
- Must be applying to study at one of the following universities:
  - WITS, UJ, UCT, NMU, RU, UWC, SU, UP, UFS, UKZN, or TSiBA

The fellowship seeks students who demonstrate leadership potential, resilience, and a commitment to innovation and social impact.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must submit the following documents along with their application:

Certified copy of final Grade 11 report (most recent academic results)
Certified copy of ID document

Providing complete and accurate documents is essential to ensuring eligibility for the selection process.

Benefits of the Allan Gray Orbis University Fellowship

Fellows receive a comprehensive support package that includes:

1. Full or Partial University Funding

Applicants with a combined annual household income of R1 million or below receive full funding, covering:
- University tuition
- Accommodation and meals
- Textbooks and tutoring allowance
- A monthly stipend
Applicants with an annual household income above R1 million receive needs-based funding
The final funding amount will be communicated after the selection camp stage

2. Mentorship & Entrepreneurial Support

Individual mentorship from a dedicated foundation staff member and a business mentor
Access to the foundation’s online entrepreneurial curriculum
Annual entrepreneurship conferences, seminars, and workshops

3. Business Development & Incubation

Networking with like-minded students, alumni, and business leaders
Business incubation support for students with entrepreneurial ventures
Potential funding opportunities via E Squared, an Allan Gray Orbis Foundation entity
- Available for students in the IVC program and graduates with viable business ideas

This all-encompassing support structure equips fellows with the skills, knowledge, and resources to succeed in both academia and business.

How to Apply for the Allan Gray Orbis University Fellowship

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Apply online via the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation website OR
Send your completed application via post

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

Upload or attach the certified copy of your Grade 11 report and a certified copy of your ID

Step 3: Selection Process

Application Deadline: 30 April 2025

Interview Invitations: July 2025
Selection Camp: September 2025

The selection process includes interviews and an intensive selection camp, where candidates will be evaluated based on academic performance, leadership potential, and entrepreneurial mindset.

Important Note:

Applicants should dedicate at least two days to complete their application form before the deadline to ensure accuracy and completeness. Applicants should apply by 30 April 2025 and take the first step towards becoming a future leader in business and innovation.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY