A university bursary that does more than pay your fees is rare. The Allan Gray Fellowship 2026 offers Grade 12 learners full university funding, personal mentors, leadership training, and access to entrepreneurship networks. Applications are open now — but they close 30 April 2026 at 17:00 SAST.
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026 is accepting applications from South African Grade 12 learners under 21. The programme provides needs-based university funding, mentorship, leadership training, and entrepreneurship development. Full funding is available for households earning R1 million or less. Applications close 30 April 2026 at 17:00 SAST.
For many Grade 12 learners, getting into university is only half the battle.
The bigger challenge is staying there.
Tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and daily living expenses can quickly become overwhelming. Even students who qualify academically often struggle financially.
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme was created to solve that problem — while developing the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.
This programme doesn’t just fund your degree.
It helps shape your future.
What Is the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme?
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme is run by the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, which invests in young South Africans with leadership potential and entrepreneurial ambition.
The programme combines:
- University funding
- Entrepreneurship education
- Mentorship and leadership training
- Access to entrepreneurial networks
Its mission is to develop young people who create value through entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.
This means fellows are supported academically and personally throughout their university journey.
What Does the Allan Gray Fellowship Cover?
The funding offered through the fellowship depends on household income.
Full Funding (Households earning R1 million or less)
Students may receive a comprehensive package covering:
- University tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Textbooks
- Tutoring allowance
- Monthly stipend
This ensures students can focus fully on their studies and personal development.
Needs-Based Funding (Households earning above R1 million)
Applicants from higher-income households may still qualify for financial support.
The final funding level is determined after the selection camp stage and based on individual circumstances.
Why Is This More Than a Typical Bursary?
Many bursaries cover tuition.
Few invest in the person behind the degree.
The Allan Gray Fellowship focuses strongly on personal development and entrepreneurship.
Personal Mentorship
Each fellow receives support from three mentors:
- Personal Development Officer – supports your transition into university
- Entrepreneurial Leadership Officer – develops business thinking
- Industry Mentor – provides career guidance and professional connections
Entrepreneurship Training
Fellows gain access to:
- Online entrepreneurial learning programmes
- Leadership seminars and workshops
- Annual entrepreneurship conferences
- Networking opportunities with entrepreneurs and innovators
Business Incubation Support
Students with strong business ideas may receive support through venture incubation programmes and access to startup funding opportunities.
Who Can Apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship 2026?
To qualify for the programme, applicants must meet academic and personal requirements.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must have:
- 60% or higher in Pure Mathematics
OR - 80% or higher in Mathematical Literacy
And
- Minimum 70% overall Grade 11 average (excluding Life Orientation)
Personal Requirements
You must:
- Be currently in Grade 12
- Be a South African citizen
- Be under the age of 21
Which Degrees Are Supported?
Applicants must intend to study one of the following fields:
- Commerce
- Science
- Engineering
- Law
- Humanities
- Arts
- Health Science
However, the programme does not support degrees in:
- Medicine
- Veterinary Science
- Dentistry
Which Universities Participate?
The Allan Gray Fellowship supports students studying at partner universities including:
- 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
- TSiBA Business School
Applicants must plan to study at one of these institutions to be eligible.
What Documents Are Required?
Before applying, prepare certified copies of:
- Grade 11 final report
- South African ID document
Ensure documents are:
- Properly certified
- Clear and readable
- Uploaded correctly during the application process
How Does the Selection Process Work?
The fellowship uses a three-stage selection process to identify candidates with leadership and entrepreneurial potential.
Stage 1 — Application
Submit your application before 30 April 2026 at 17:00 SAST.
The foundation recommends taking at least two days to complete the application carefully.
Stage 2 — Interview
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews in July 2026.
This stage evaluates leadership ability, communication skills, and entrepreneurial thinking.
Stage 3 — Selection Camp
Candidates who pass the interview stage attend a selection camp in September 2026.
During the camp, participants are assessed on:
- Leadership
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Entrepreneurial mindset
Successful candidates are then offered fellowship positions.
How Do You Apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship 2026?
There are three ways to apply.
Online Application
The easiest and fastest option is to apply online through the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation website.
Hand Delivery
Applications can be delivered to:
Cape Town Office
46 Hof Street, Oranjezicht
Johannesburg Office
1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr
1 Protea Place, Sandton
Postal Application
Send your application to:
Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
Freepost No: CB 11349
Kloof Street
8008
Late applications will not be accepted, so applying early is essential.
Why Grade 12 Learners Should Take This Opportunity Seriously
The Allan Gray Fellowship is one of the most respected development programmes available to South African students.
It combines:
- Full university funding
- Entrepreneurial training
- Leadership development
- Mentorship and networks
For students with ambition, creativity, and strong academic ability, the programme offers opportunities that extend far beyond a university degree.
Many fellows go on to become entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders in business and society.
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Final Thoughts
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026 is currently open and accepting applications from Grade 12 learners across South Africa.
It offers more than financial support — it provides mentorship, leadership training, and access to entrepreneurial opportunities that can shape an entire career.
If you are a Grade 12 learner under 21 with strong academic results and a passion for leadership or entrepreneurship, this is one of the most powerful opportunities available.
Application Deadline: 30 April 2026 at 17:00 SAST
