The Allan Gray Fellowship is a prestigious four-year undergraduate scholarship designed to empower young leaders from Eswatini, Botswana, and Namibia. It provides comprehensive financial support, mentorship, entrepreneurial training, and access to a powerful network, preparing fellows to graduate as responsible, entrepreneurial thinkers committed to community impact.
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation runs this programme in partnership with 10 partner universities in South Africa, including the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, and the University of the Witwatersrand. The foundation aims to develop well-rounded individuals who graduate with the skills, mindset, and network to drive meaningful change.
Allan Gray Fellowship Benefits
- Coverage includes university tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, tutoring, travel allowances, medical aid costs, and a monthly stipend.
- Receive mentorship from the Foundation staff and a dedicated business mentor to support your entrepreneurial journey.
- Gain access to the Foundation’s Entrepreneurial Curriculum through the AGOF Online Campus, along with annual conferences, seminars, and workshops designed to support your entrepreneurial journey.
- Develop your personal, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills through tailored programmes designed to foster growth and success.
- Join a network of like-minded individuals committed to growth, collaboration, and success.
- Gain access to business incubation and venture funding to support your entrepreneurial journey.
Allan Gray Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Achieve 60% or higher in Mathematics in AS levels or Form 6 latest results.
- Maintain 70%+ overall average in latest AS Level or Form 6 results (excluding Life Orientation/Skills).
- Be a citizen of Eswatini, Botswana, or Namibia.
- Be under 21 years of age in the year of application.
- Plan to study Commerce, Science (excluding Medicine, Veterinary Science, and Dentistry), Engineering, Law, Humanities, or Arts at one of the partner universities in South Africa.
How to Apply for Allan Gray Fellowship?
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents by 31 July 2026 at 17:00.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between August and September 2026.
- Finalists will attend an Entrepreneurial Camp in October 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Allan Gray Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Who is eligible to apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme?
Citizens of Eswatini, Botswana, and Namibia who are under the age of 21 in the year of application and transitioning into their university degree are eligible to apply.
Can I apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme if I already have another bursary or scholarship?
Yes, you can. The Allan Gray Fellowship provides need-based funding and does not require you to work for any of our associated companies or the Foundation. However, you will benefit significantly from being part of our vibrant community.
Can a student who has received the Government Top Achievers Scholarship and plans to study overseas be considered for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme?
Yes, provided that the university is ranked within the top 100 of the QS rankings.
Can I apply if I am currently studying at university?
You can apply if you are in the first year of your university degree and intend to study at one of our partner universities in South Africa.
I applied when I was in Grade 12 and was not successful. Can I still apply again this year?
Yes, you can reapply. We will evaluate your application based on the noticeable development and improvement in your life since your previous application, both from an entrepreneurial and academic perspective.
Will I be required to attend any activities outside of my university degree requirements if I am selected?
Yes, the Allan Gray Fellowship includes an Entrepreneurial and Personal Development Programme that requires you to attend events and complete activities outside of your university degree requirements.
Do I need to have a strong academic record to qualify for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme?
Yes, academic excellence is one of the key criteria for success in our programmes.
What happens if my academic performance drops during the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme?
You may lose your Fellowship at any stage. Each Candidate Allan Gray Fellow is evaluated annually based on academic performance as well as participation in the Entrepreneurial and Personal Development Programmes.
Are Candidate Allan Gray Fellows required to start a business immediately after completing their studies?
No, Candidate Allan Gray Fellows are not required to start a business immediately after completing their studies.
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