The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme identifies and supports high-potential young achievers transitioning into university who aspire to create meaningful impact in their own lives, communities, and the broader South African economy. The programme offers needs-based funding for university studies alongside comprehensive entrepreneurial development support designed to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and leadership capability. Fellows are selected not only for academic performance, but also for their drive, values, and potential to become responsible entrepreneurs and change-makers. Programme Overview The Fellowship supports students as they transition from high school into university by providing both financial and developmental assistance. The programme focuses on long-term personal growth, entrepreneurship, and leadership development, with the aim of enabling Fellows to identify opportunities, create value, and contribute positively to society. The Fellowship is underpinned by a strong culture of collaboration, community, and accountability, ensuring that Fellows grow within a supportive ecosystem of peers, mentors, and professionals. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered: Achieved a minimum of 60% in Pure Mathematics or 80% in Mathematical Literacy in final Grade 11 results Achieved a minimum overall average of 70% in final Grade 11 results (excluding Life Orientation) Currently in Grade 12 in the year of application Be under the age of 21 in the year of application Be a South African citizen Intend to study towards a degree in: Commerce Science Engineering Law Humanities Arts Health Sciences (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science) Plan to study at one of the following institutions: 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 Application Process The application process is designed to assess both academic readiness and entrepreneurial potential. Key steps include: Submission of a completed application form and supporting documentation online, by hand delivery, or via post Applications must be submitted by 30 April 2026 at 17:00 SAST Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews in July 2026 Successful interview candidates will attend a selection camp in September 2026 Applicants are encouraged to allow sufficient time to complete the application process. The Foundation recommends dedicating at least two days to complete the application form thoroughly. Required documentation: Certified copy of the most recent Grade 11 report Certified copy of South African ID Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. What the Fellowship Covers Academic and Financial Support Applicants from households with a combined annual income of R1 million or less may receive full funding, including: University accommodation Meals Textbooks Tutoring allowance Monthly stipend Applicants from households earning above R1 million will receive needs-based funding Final funding allocations will be communicated after the selection camp Entrepreneurial Development Support One-on-one mentorship from an assigned Foundation staff member Guidance from a dedicated business mentor Access to the Foundation’s online entrepreneurial curriculum Annual entrepreneurship conferences, workshops, and seminars Access to a community of like-minded peers Business incubation support Potential access to venture funding through E Squared, an Allan Gray Orbis Foundation sister entity The Aim of the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme The Fellowship aims to cultivate responsible entrepreneurs who view entrepreneurship as a viable and impactful career path. By the end of the programme, Fellows are expected to: Demonstrate a strong entrepreneurial mindset Identify opportunities and develop ideas into viable ventures Understand the value of responsible entrepreneurship Engage meaningfully in collaborative communities Contribute positively to South Africa’s social and economic development The entrepreneurial mindset curriculum is delivered through the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation’s Online Campus and reinforced through practical exposure and mentorship. First-Year University Campaign The 2026 first-year university campaign is a closed, nomination-based process. Partner universities may nominate eligible first-year students who: Are in their first year of study (expanded programmes included) Achieved a minimum average of 65% after the first semester of 2026 Are 22 years old or younger in 2026 Are running a venture or actively developing a viable business idea Are enrolled in eligible faculties at selected partner universities VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.