Allan Gray Orbis Foundation: Fellowship Bursary 2026
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is more than just a bursary; it is a comprehensive leadership and entrepreneurship development programme. It is designed for high-achieving students who don't just want a degree, but who aim to become high-impact entrepreneurs who will transform the South African economy.
1. Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Provider | Allan Gray Orbis Foundation |
| Target Audience | Grade 12 Learners & 1st/2nd Year University Students |
| Closing Date (Grade 12) | 30 April 2026 |
| Closing Date (Univ.) | August 2026 (Standard cycle) |
| Coverage | Full Tuition, Residence, Meals, Books, and a monthly Stipend |
| Status | Full-Cost "No-Strings" Bursary (No work-back required) |
2. Supported Fields of Study
The Foundation supports degrees that foster innovation and business leadership at partner universities (UCT, Wits, UP, SU, UJ, RU, UFS, UKZN, NMMU, and UWC):
Commerce & Finance: Accounting, Economics, Business Science.
Engineering: All branches (Civil, Mechanical, Electronic, etc.).
Science: Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Statistics.
Humanities: Law, International Relations, Politics (Focus on leadership).
Health Sciences: Restricted to specific innovation-focused streams (check latest prospectus).
3. Minimum Requirements
The Foundation looks for "Spirit of Significance"—excellence beyond just academics.
For Grade 12 Applicants:
Academic Achievement: Minimum 60% in Mathematics and a 70% overall average (excluding Life Orientation).
Ambition: Evidence of leadership (Prefect, Sports Captain, Community Leader).
Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen (or citizen of Namibia, Botswana, or Eswatini for respective regional branches).
For University Applicants (1st or 2nd Year):
Academic Achievement: A minimum 65% average in your current year of study.
Age: Must be under the age of 21 (for 1st year) or 22 (for 2nd year).
4. Fellowship Pillars (The "Selection Criteria")
During the interview and selection camp, you will be assessed on these five pillars:
Intellectual Imagination: Creative problem-solving and curiosity.
Achievement Excellence: A track record of setting and hitting high goals.
Spirit of Significance: A desire to make a difference and give back.
Personal Initiative: Taking action without being told (the "entrepreneurial spark").
Courageous Commitment: Resilience and the "grit" to stick to a plan.
5. Fellowship Benefits
Financial Support: Covers the full cost of university, ensuring you graduate debt-free.
Entrepreneurial Training: Access to seminars, workshops, and speakers that teach you how to start and scale a business.
Mentorship & Coaching: You are assigned a Personal Coach to help with your mindset and a Mentor to help with your career.
The "Orbis" Community: Access to a network of like-minded "Fellows" who are potential future business partners.
No Work-Back: Unlike most corporate bursaries, you are not forced to work for Allan Gray. You are encouraged to start your own business.
6. How to Apply
The selection process is rigorous and has several stages:
Online Application: Register at
Application Form .Application Details: You must provide academic results and write short essays about your leadership experiences and business ideas.
Interview: If shortlisted, you will undergo a formal interview focusing on your mindset.
Selection Camp: The final stage is a 2-day "Selection Center" involving group challenges and presentations.
7. Important Advice for 2026
The "Entrepreneurial" Pitch: In your application, don't just talk about wanting a job. Talk about a problem you want to solve in South Africa. The Foundation invests in "job creators," not "job seekers."
Beyond the Classroom: Your CV should show that you are active. Whether it’s a small side-hustle, a charity project, or leading a school club, this is more important than a 90% average.
Start Early: The application requires detailed info and testimonials. Do not wait until the 30th of April to begin.
The "Allan Gray" Difference: Understand that the Foundation is separate from Allan Gray (the investment company). They are looking for the next generation of CEOs and founders.
Tip: When writing your essays, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your leadership moments. Be specific about how you led and what the impact was!
