Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The Allan Gray Fellowship offers full financial support and entrepreneurial development for high-achieving students to study at top South African universities.
Overview
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship Programme supports young achievers throughout their university journey at selected partner institutions in South Africa.
The programme is designed to develop future leaders who are entrepreneurial, socially responsible, and committed to creating meaningful impact.
Programme Objectives
The fellowship aims to:
- Foster entrepreneurship as a career path
- Develop leadership and critical thinking skills
- Encourage responsible value creation
- Build strong collaborative networks
- Support community engagement and impact
Key Benefits
Financial Support
The fellowship provides comprehensive funding, including:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Textbooks and tutoring support
- Travel allowance
- Medical aid
- Monthly stipend
Academic and Professional Development
- Access to entrepreneurial curriculum via AGOF Online Campus
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- Participation in seminars, workshops, and conferences
Entrepreneurial Support
- Business incubation opportunities
- Access to venture funding
- Exposure to real-world entrepreneurial ecosystems
Community and Networking
- Membership in a dynamic entrepreneurial community
- Opportunities for collaboration and peer learning
- Long-term professional network building
Fields of Study
Applicants can pursue degrees in:
- Commerce
- Science (excluding Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry)
- Engineering
- Law
- Humanities
- Arts
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of Eswatini, Botswana, or Namibia
- Be under 21 years old in the year of application
- Plan to study at a partner university in South Africa
- Achieve at least 60% in Mathematics
- Have a minimum overall average of 70% in latest AS Level or Form 6 results
- Demonstrate interest in entrepreneurship and leadership
Programme Approach
The fellowship combines:
- Structured mentorship
- Immersive learning experiences
- Practical entrepreneurial exposure
- Continuous personal and professional development
It emphasizes building well-rounded individuals who can create sustainable value in society.
Why This Fellowship Matters
This programme is valuable because it:
- Removes financial barriers to higher education
- Builds entrepreneurial mindsets early
- Supports innovation and enterprise creation
- Encourages responsible leadership
- Provides long-term career and business support
How to Apply
Steps
- Check Eligibility
Ensure academic and nationality requirements are met - Prepare Application
Include academic records and personal details - Demonstrate Potential
Highlight leadership, initiative, and entrepreneurial interest - Submit Application
Through the official Allan Gray Fellowship application portal
Tips for Applicants
- Showcase leadership and initiative, not just academics
- Demonstrate genuine interest in entrepreneurship
- Highlight community involvement or impact
- Be clear about long-term goals
- Prepare for possible interviews or assessments
FAQs
1. What does the fellowship cover?
It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, books, travel, medical aid, and a stipend.
2. Who can apply?
Students from Eswatini, Botswana, and Namibia under 21 years old.
3. What fields are supported?
Commerce, Science (with exclusions), Engineering, Law, Humanities, and Arts.
4. Is entrepreneurship mandatory?
Yes, the programme strongly focuses on entrepreneurship development.
5. Are there additional benefits?
Yes, including mentorship, networking, and venture funding opportunities.
6. Where will fellows study?
At selected partner universities in South Africa.
7. What makes a strong applicant?
Academic excellence combined with leadership potential and entrepreneurial mindset.
Conclusion
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is a highly valuable opportunity for young students aiming to combine higher education with entrepreneurship.
It not only funds studies but also builds the skills, mindset, and networks needed to create lasting impact.
For more information, visit Allan Gray Orbis Foundation.