The Allan Gray Fellowship is one of the most competitive and prestigious funding programmes available to South African students.
The fellowship focuses on developing future entrepreneurs who want to build businesses and create economic growth in South Africa.
The programme is offered by the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation and targets high potential Grade 12 learners who want to study at selected universities.
Students who are selected receive full financial support for their undergraduate degree and participate in a structured entrepreneurial development programme.
The fellowship combines academic funding with leadership training, mentorship, and entrepreneurship education.
The fellowship is highly competitive and attracts thousands of applications from Grade 12 students each year.
Who can apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship?
The fellowship is designed for Grade 12 learners who show strong academic ability and leadership potential.
Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements before applying.
The main requirements include the following.
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be under the age of 21 in the year of their application
- You must be in Grade 12 at the time of applying.
- You must have a minimum average of 70% for final Grade 11 results (excluding Life Orientation)
- You must intend to study a full time undergraduate degree at a recognised South African university.
- You must have a minimum of 60% in Pure Mathematics OR a minimum of 80% in Mathematical Literacy for final grade 11 results.
- You must demonstrate entrepreneurial potential and leadership ability.
Students applying for the fellowship must also show an interest in creating businesses or solving economic challenges through innovation.
What does the Allan Gray Fellowship cover?
The Allan Gray Fellowship provides full funding for undergraduate university studies.
This financial support removes the financial barriers that many students face when pursuing higher education.
The fellowship normally covers the following costs.
- Full university tuition fees.
- Accommodation or residence costs.
- Meals and living allowance.
- Textbooks and study materials.
- Access to development programmes and leadership training.
Fellows also gain access to mentorship from experienced professionals and entrepreneurs.
The programme includes structured leadership development activities throughout university.
This support helps fellows build the skills required to start and grow businesses after graduation.
How do Grade 12 students apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship?
Applications for the fellowship are completed online through the official programme portal.
Students must create an online profile before completing the application form.
The application process includes the following steps:
- Visit the Allan Gray Fellowship application portal.
- Register an online account on the application system.
- Complete the online fellowship application form.
- Upload the required supporting documents.
- Submit the application before the official deadline.
Applicants may also be asked to complete additional assessments during the selection process.
Shortlisted candidates often participate in interviews or further evaluation stages.
The application portal contains the latest instructions and deadlines for each intake year.
What documents are required for the Allan Gray Fellowship application?
Applicants must submit supporting documents during the application process to help the foundation verify eligibility and academic performance.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Latest Grade 11 and Grade 12 academic results.
- Proof of acceptance or application to a university.
- Completed online application forms.
- Any additional documents requested during the application process.
Applicants must ensure that all documents are uploaded correctly before submitting the application.
Incomplete applications may not be considered during the selection process.
When do Allan Gray Fellowship applications open?
Applications are open until 30 April 2026. Students must submit their application form and supporting documentation online or via post before 30 April 2026, 17:00 SAST
Successful applicant candidates will be invited for an interview in July 2026, and successful interview candidates will be invited to a selection camp in September 2026.
All application dates and deadlines are announced on the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship page.
Late applications are not accepted after the closing date.
What makes the Allan Gray Fellowship application competitive?
The Allan Gray Fellowship is highly competitive because the programme invests heavily in each selected student.
The foundation looks for applicants who demonstrate both academic excellence and entrepreneurial potential.
Several factors can strengthen an application.
- Strong academic results throughout high school.
- Evidence of leadership activities or community involvement.
- Clear interest in entrepreneurship.
- Participation in projects that show initiative and problem solving.
- A well written application explaining your goals and ideas.
Applicants who demonstrate creativity, initiative, and a desire to build businesses often stand out during the selection process.
The programme aims to identify young people who can become future entrepreneurs and leaders in South Africa.
