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: SubmitComplete the online application form and upload all required documents by 31 July 2026 at 17:00.
Step 2: InterviewShortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between August and September 2026.
Step 3: Selection CampEntrepreneurial 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.