Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursaries 2027: Eligibility, Benefits & Application Guide
Imagine stepping into university in 2027 with your tuition paid and mentors guiding your entrepreneurial dreams. The Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursaries 2027 stand out as one of South Africa’s top bursary opportunities for high-achieving matriculants who show strong academic skills and business potential. This programme offers financial support for undergraduate studies along with training to build future leaders and entrepreneurs. Readers will find details here on the foundation’s background, eligibility rules, benefits provided, and the full application process.
About the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation started in 2005 when Allan Gray set out to create a new generation of entrepreneurs in Southern Africa. It receives funding from taxed profits of Allan Gray Limited. The foundation works in South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, and Botswana. Its fellowship gives students money for university plus skills to start businesses. This mix helps young people make real change in their communities.
Fields of Study Covered
The fellowship supports undergraduate degrees in several fields. Students must plan to attend one of the partner universities. Here are the eligible areas:
- Arts
- Commerce
- Engineering
- Health Science (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science)
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
Partner Universities
Applicants need to choose from these partner schools. Check if your top pick is on the list.
- 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 the Fellowship Covers
Funding levels change based on household income. The table below shows what each group receives.
| Household Income Level | Coverage Includes |
|---|---|
| Below R1 million | Tuition fees, university accommodation and meals, book allowance, general monthly allowance, tutoring sessions, counselling services (ICAS) |
| R1 million to R1.5 million | Tuition fees, university accommodation and meals, tutoring sessions, counselling services (ICAS) |
| Above R1.5 million | Tuition fees, tutoring sessions, counselling services (ICAS) |
Additional Benefits
The programme goes beyond money. It builds business skills through these extras:
- Personalised mentorship from foundation staff and business experts
- Access to an online entrepreneurial curriculum
- Attendance at an annual entrepreneurship conference
- Participation in seminars and workshops
- Membership in a network of young entrepreneurs
- Business incubation opportunities
- Possible access to funding through E Squared
These help fellows grow into strong leaders.
Eligibility Requirements
Check these rules to see if you qualify. All must be met:
- South African citizen
- Not older than 21 years in 2026
- Currently in Matric in 2026
- At least 60% for Mathematics or 80% for Mathematical Literacy in Grade 11 final results
- Minimum overall average of 70% in Grade 11 final results (excluding Life Orientation)
- Intend to study an approved field at a partner university in 2027
- Believe in South Africa’s future
- Show entrepreneurial flair and passion
Selection Process
The process has clear steps with set dates. Follow the timeline.
- Submit your application by 30 April 2026 at 17:00.
- Shortlisted candidates attend an interview on 31 July 2026.
- Invited applicants join a Selection Camp in September 2026.
You get feedback after each step. Applications after the deadline will not count.
Required Documents
Gather these items before applying. Submit clear, certified copies:
- South African ID
- Grade 11 final academic record (if most recent)
- Grade 12 latest academic record, if available
Missing papers can lead to disqualification.
How to Apply for Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursaries 2027
Follow these steps to apply. Online is best to avoid delays.
- Register an account then login at the portal.
- Download and complete the application form.
- Submit online, or post to Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, Freepost no: CB 11349, Kloof Street, 8008. For hand delivery: 46 Hof Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town, 8001 or 1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, 1 Protea Place, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196.
Note how you heard about the fellowship as asked. Meet the 30 April 2026 at 17:00 deadline.