If you’re a South African student aiming to study in 2027 and want to build a future in entrepreneurship, the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship is a top bursary you can’t afford to miss. Applications close on 30 April 2026 at 17:00, so act fast.
What the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Is All About
The Foundation was started in 2005 by Allan Gray to nurture the next generation of South African entrepreneurs. The Fellowship provides a mix of full or partial university funding and a comprehensive entrepreneurial development programme for students who excel academically and show a passion for creating economic opportunities.
Who Should Apply
To qualify, you must be a South African citizen, currently in Matric in 2026, and not older than 21 years old in that year. Your Grade 11 results should meet the following:
- Minimum overall average of 70 % (excluding Life Orientation)
- At least 60 % in Mathematics or 80 % in Mathematical Literacy
You also need to plan to study an undergraduate degree in one of the approved fields and at one of the partner universities listed below, and you must demonstrate a genuine belief in South Africa’s future and entrepreneurial flair.
Approved Fields
- Arts
- Commerce
- Engineering
- Health Science (excluding Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science)
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
Partner Universities
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- TSIBA Business School
What You’ll Gain
The bursary amount depends on your household income:
Household income below R1 million
- Tuition fees
- University accommodation and meals
- Book allowance
- General monthly allowance
- Tutoring sessions
- Counselling services (ICAS)
Household income between R1 million and R1.5 million
- Tuition fees
- University accommodation and meals
- Tutoring sessions
- Counselling services (ICAS)
Household income above R1.5 million
- Tuition fees
- Tutoring sessions
- Counselling services (ICAS)
In addition, fellows receive:
- Personalised mentorship from Foundation staff and experienced business mentors
- Access to an online entrepreneurial curriculum
- Attendance at an annual entrepreneurship conference
- Participation in seminars and workshops
- Membership in a network of like‑minded young entrepreneurs
- Business incubation opportunities
- Possible access to funding via E Squared
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Register an account on the Gray Matter portal: Register here.
- Log in: Login now.
- Download the application form: Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Application Form 2027 (PDF).
- Complete the form and upload the required documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Grade 11 final academic record (or most recent report)
- Certified copy of Grade 12 latest record, if available
- Submit your application online before 30 April 2026 at 17:00.
Alternative Submission
Mail your completed form and documents to:
- Postal address: Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, Freepost no: CB 11349, Kloof Street, 8008
- Hand delivery – Cape Town: 46 Hof Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town, 8001
- Hand delivery – Johannesburg: 1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, 1 Protea Place, Corner of Fredman Drive and Protea Place, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196
Practical Tips to Boost Your Application
Many applicants struggle with incomplete or late documents. From experience, most successful candidates:
- Check every eligibility rule carefully before starting.
- Gather all certificates and IDs in advance.
- Proofread your application for clarity and spelling.
- Use the official website links only – avoid third‑party sites.
- Respond to any interview invitations promptly.
Next Steps
The selection process is three‑stage:
- Stage 1: Submit application by 30 April 2026 at 17:00.
- Stage 2: Shortlisted students will be invited to an interview on 31 July 2026.
- Stage 3: Those who pass the interview will attend a Selection Camp in September 2026.
After each stage, you’ll receive feedback. If you’re a first‑time applicant, don’t worry—just follow the steps above, keep your documents ready, and stay honest about your goals. Good luck, and remember: this fellowship can unlock a brighter future for you and for South Africa.
