If you’ve ever dreamed of building your own business, creating jobs, and making a positive impact on your community, the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship might be exactly the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
This prestigious program is not just about covering your university costs—it’s about shaping you into a high-impact entrepreneur who can help transform South Africa’s economy.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship: who it’s for, how to apply, the benefits, and what makes it different from other scholarships.
About the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation was established in 2005 by businessman Allan Gray, one of South Africa’s most successful investors and entrepreneurs. His vision was simple but powerful: to create a pipeline of responsible, high-impact entrepreneurs who would shape a better future for South Africa.
Today, the foundation invests in young people with entrepreneurial potential, providing them with funding, mentorship, and world-class training.
You can read more about their mission here: Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Official Website.
What is the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship?
The Fellowship Programme is the flagship offering of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation. It’s a fully-funded undergraduate scholarship combined with entrepreneurship development.
The idea is not just to support students financially but to equip them with the mindset, skills, and networks needed to launch and sustain successful businesses.
This program focuses on personal leadership, academic excellence, and entrepreneurial thinking—and it starts preparing Fellows for entrepreneurship while they’re still at university.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is highly competitive. Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:
- South African citizenship
- Currently in Grade 12 or in your first or second year of university
- Strong academic performance (at least 60% in Mathematics or 80% in Mathematical Literacy for Grade 12 applicants)
- Acceptance or intention to study at one of the Foundation’s partner universities
- A demonstrated interest in entrepreneurship and leadership
- Alignment with the Foundation’s values of excellence, integrity, spirit of significance, personal initiative, and courage
Partner Universities
You must be studying (or planning to study) at one of the Foundation’s partner institutions:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- North-West University (NWU)
What Does the Fellowship Cover?
The Fellowship is more than just a bursary. Here’s what you’ll receive:
- Full University Tuition – Covers your entire undergraduate degree costs.
- Accommodation – On-campus or approved off-campus housing.
- Meals – A meal allowance to ensure proper nutrition.
- Books and Materials – All prescribed learning resources are covered.
- Monthly Stipend – To help with daily expenses.
- Mentorship – One-on-one guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and professionals.
- Workshops & Seminars – Focused on business skills, leadership, and innovation.
- Entrepreneurship Training – Access to a comprehensive development curriculum.
- Networking Opportunities – Connect with like-minded Fellows, alumni, and industry leaders.
What Makes This Fellowship Special?
Many scholarships cover tuition and books, but the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship is an investment in you as a future leader.
Instead of focusing only on your academic degree, this program integrates personal leadership, community engagement, and entrepreneurship into your university journey.
It’s essentially a four-in-one opportunity:
- Financial support for your studies
- Leadership training
- Entrepreneurship skills development
- Networking and career connections
Application Process – Step by Step
Here’s how to apply for the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship:
Step 1: Visit the Official Application Page
Go to the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Application Portal and select the category that applies to you (Grade 12, 1st Year University, or 2nd Year University).
Step 2: Complete the Online Form
Provide your personal details, academic history, and extracurricular activities.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
You’ll need:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Academic transcripts or latest report card
- Proof of university acceptance (if applicable)
- Short essays on your motivation and entrepreneurial vision
Step 4: Undergo Selection Camps and Interviews
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to attend an Entrepreneurial Selection Camp, which includes group activities, problem-solving exercises, and interviews.
Step 5: Receive Your Offer
Successful candidates will receive a formal offer to join the Fellowship.
Key Dates for 2025 Applications
While exact dates vary, applications usually follow this timeline:
- Grade 12 applications: Open in February and close around April/May.
- First and Second Year university applications: Open in June and close around August/September.
For accurate dates, check:
Tips to Boost Your Chances
1. Show Leadership Skills
Highlight any leadership positions you’ve held—school prefect, sports captain, club chairperson, or community project leader.
2. Demonstrate Entrepreneurial Thinking
Even if you haven’t started a business yet, mention any small projects, problem-solving initiatives, or innovative ideas you’ve worked on.
3. Maintain High Academic Standards
Strong grades are essential to getting shortlisted.
4. Write a Compelling Motivation Essay
Be authentic—share your personal story, challenges you’ve overcome, and your vision for making an impact in South Africa.
5. Prepare for Selection Camp
Practice teamwork, communication, and problem-solving under pressure.
Success Stories
Many Allan Gray Fellows have gone on to launch successful businesses and social enterprises. Examples include:
- Vinny Lingham – Serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Civic and Yola.
- Ludwick Marishane – Inventor of DryBath and named by Forbes as one of Africa’s best young entrepreneurs.
These stories prove that the program doesn’t just fund your education—it can launch your career as a changemaker.
Why This Fellowship Matters in South Africa
Entrepreneurship is one of the key drivers of job creation and economic growth. South Africa faces high unemployment rates, especially among youth. The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation is tackling this challenge by equipping talented young people with the skills and mindset to create sustainable businesses.
If you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, this fellowship is one of the most impactful programs you can join.
External Resources
- Allan Gray Orbis Foundation – Official Fellowship Page
- Allan Gray Investment Company – to learn about the company behind the foundation
- Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) – for extra entrepreneurial support
- National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) – additional youth entrepreneurship funding
Conclusion
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is more than just a bursary—it’s a launchpad for future entrepreneurs.
With full funding, mentorship, leadership training, and a network of like-minded peers, you’ll have everything you need to start building a business and making an impact even before you graduate.
If you believe you have the drive, vision, and passion to be a high-impact entrepreneur, start preparing your application today. This could be the opportunity that changes your life—and South Africa’s future.
