Applications open for Allan Gray Fellowship Programme (South Africa)

Deadline: 30-Apr-2026

The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme supports high-potential South African students transitioning to university, offering financial aid, mentorship, entrepreneurial training, and access to business incubation. Eligible students demonstrate strong academics, leadership, and entrepreneurial potential, with a nomination-based selection for first-year applicants in 2026.

Overview

The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme identifies and nurtures high-potential South African students who aspire to create meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. The program provides:

• Entrepreneurial mindset development
• Academic and financial support
• Mentorship and leadership development
• Access to entrepreneurial curriculum, workshops, and conferences
• Business incubation and venture funding opportunities

It fosters a culture of collaboration and community, helping students translate ideas into tangible ventures while developing personal and professional skills.

Financial Support

Funding is needs-based, determined by household income:

• Full funding: Households earning ≤ R1 million/year
  • Covers university accommodation, meals, textbooks, tutoring allowance, and a monthly stipend
• Partial funding: Households earning > R1 million/year
  • Funding allocations are communicated after the selection camp stage

Entrepreneurial and Academic Support

Fellows gain:

• Mentorship from foundation staff and business mentors
• Access to an online entrepreneurial curriculum
• Participation in seminars, workshops, and annual conferences
• Opportunities for business incubation and venture funding via E Squared (based on viability)
• Inclusion in a network of like-minded young entrepreneurs

Eligibility Criteria

Academic and Personal Requirements

• South African citizenship
• Grade 12 student during the year of application
• Under 21 years of age
• Academic performance:
  • ≥ 60% in Pure Mathematics or ≥ 80% in Mathematical Literacy (Grade 11)
  • Minimum overall average of 70% (excluding Life Orientation)
• Entrepreneurial experience: Active involvement in a venture or a viable business idea

First-Year University Requirements (2026 Campaign)

• Nomination-based process by partner universities
• Must be in first-year university study
• Minimum first-semester average: 65%
• Age limit: No older than 22 in 2026
• Eligible fields of study: Arts, Humanities, Law, Health Sciences, Commerce, Engineering, Science
  • Excluding Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Sciences

How the Programme Works

1. Nomination: Partner universities nominate eligible students.
2. Selection Camp: Shortlisted nominees participate in assessments, interviews, and entrepreneurial evaluations.
3. Funding Determination: Household income and needs-based criteria guide final funding allocation.
4. Programme Participation: Fellows receive mentorship, training, and access to business incubation opportunities.
5. Community and Network Engagement: Fellows join a national network of young entrepreneurs to collaborate and share knowledge.

Key Considerations and Tips

• Maintain strong academic performance and meet minimum thresholds.
• Demonstrate commitment to societal impact and leadership potential.
• Clearly articulate venture or business idea viability.
• Engage actively in entrepreneurial and community initiatives to strengthen your profile.
• Ensure nomination by a partner university, as direct applications are not accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for the 2026 first-year fellowship?
   Students nominated by partner universities, in their first year of study, meeting academic and entrepreneurial criteria.
2. What fields of study are eligible?
   Arts, Humanities, Law, Health Sciences, Commerce, Engineering, and Science (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Sciences).
3. What financial support is provided?
   Needs-based funding covering accommodation, meals, textbooks, tutoring allowance, and a stipend, depending on household income.
4. Is prior entrepreneurial experience required?
   Yes, applicants should be actively involved in a venture or have a viable business idea.
5. What is the age limit for applicants?
   Under 21 for general eligibility; no older than 22 for the 2026 first-year university cohort.
6. Do applicants need South African citizenship?
   Yes, citizenship is required.
7. How is mentorship and support delivered?
   Through foundation staff, business mentors, online entrepreneurial curriculum, workshops, conferences, and access to business incubation via E Squared.

Conclusion

The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme equips young South African students with the financial, academic, and entrepreneurial support needed to create sustainable ventures and positive societal impact. By combining mentorship, leadership development, and access to business networks, the fellowship fosters next-generation innovators and community leaders.

For more information, visit Allan Gray Orbis Foundation.